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AWSM / Team Building (Focusing on Foundations):
The AWSM lesson provides an introduction to outdoor school by focusing on the essential elements needed to sustain life: Air, Water, Sunlight, and Minerals. The second half of the lesson is team building in which students are provided with challenges they must complete as a group. These challenges helps students learn to live in community with one another by developing skills such as cooperation, communication, and trust. CA Science Standards (NGSS) – ESS 3.A and ESS 3.C |
Astronomy (Investigating the night sky):
The amazing view of the heavens provided by a camp setting introduces students to Astronomy. Students learn characteristics of some of the basic components of the universe and our solar system. Students learn about the moon, stars and planets through a variety of interactive activities. |
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Botany (Tremendous Trees):
Students develop an understanding of the role of producers in the community by carefully observing some of the local trees and plants. They learn the roles and parts and how they help these living organisms survive. Students will develop an understanding of how plants grow, interact with the environment, and reproduce. CA Science Standards (NGSS) – MS-LS1-4 |
Ecology (Understanding Animals):
There are many different kinds of animals, each specifically adapted for their habitat. Through exploring the local area and observing a variety of consumers, the students can understand and appreciate the connection between structure and function in animals. Students will develop an understanding of food relationships and energy flow in food webs, which illustrate the resource dependency within an ecosystem. CA Science Standards (NGSS) – 5-LS2-1, , 5-PS3-1, and MS-LS1-4 |
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Geology (Rocks that Roll):
This class leads students to an appreciation of the importance of rocks and minerals to the ecosystem, and introduces them to the layers of the earth and plate tectonics. Students observe different types of weathering and erosion, and gain an appreciation for how the earth is formed. CA Science Standards (NGSS) – 5-ESS2-1 |
Exploration (Nature Discovery):
This class provides an investigative hike in which students seek out evidence for various organisms such as: birds, insects, animal tracks and scat. Students use their senses as they explore their surroundings, developing an awareness of the various components of the ecosystem and their interdependence. CA Science Standards (NGSS) – LS1.B |
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Survival (Lost and Found):
In this lesson, students discuss reasons why people become lost, and develop skills to prevent a search and rescue situation. Students learn ways to increase their chances of surviving in the wilderness, and being rescued in an emergency situation. Some highlights include: fire building, orienteering, and shelter building. |
Sustainability (Environmental Stewardship):
In this lesson, students will participate in various interactive games to learn about alternative forms of energy and resource conservation. Students are challenged to examine their impact on the environment, and their role in preserving natural resources. CA Science Standards (NGSS) – ESS3.C |
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Night Hike (Nocturnal Games):
The night hike introduces students to the world of nocturnal animals, focusing on how their senses allow them to live in the darkness. By leaving the lights of camp, students discover more about their own senses. This is accomplished through active games based on animals’ nocturnal behavior and design. CA Science Standards 6a |