Connecting Students to Nature: Extend Learning Outside!
Numerous studies have shown the mental and physical benefits of spending time in nature. For children, access to green spaces can decrease stress, aggression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms. The pandemic reminded us of the importance of spending time outside and connecting with the natural world.
(Source: WeAreTeachers) |
Observe & Work Outside
Students can practice their writing in a journal. Take the journal outside! Students can respond to prompts or find a "sit spot" outdoors to record their observations using all their senses: what do they see, hear, smell, feel? Students may want to express themselves through informal observations, poetry, sketches, or fiction.
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Participate in Citizen Science
Community science, also called citizen science, provides opportunities for students to contribute to research on a wide variety of subjects that influence real scientific conclusions by:
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Contribute to iNaturalist
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Bring the Outside In
Kids can learn a lot from observing animals, from what they eat and how they raise their young to more advanced concepts like habitats and adaptations. Unfortunately, getting access to live animals can be a challenge. Enter live streaming webcams!
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Check out this list from WeAreTeachers of 25 awesome live animal webcams for science learning at a distance.
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