Summer 2022
Level 2
This week we used books and field guides to learn about the flora and fauna in our environment, and we shared facts with each other. While we studied the living things around us, we learned about the different characteristics of creatures around us. We then went on a walk to observe the flowers and plants around and connect what we observed to what we read about. We especially focused on the variety of sizes in our natural world and used pieces of yarn to measure objects we saw. In order to prepare for a summer of outdoor camp, we also used this first day to get comfortable outside and familiarize ourselves with the outdoor elements we will continue to encounter. As the older students, we assumed leadership roles and practiced being good role models to the level 1 students.
Spot That Flower
Pacific Spirit Park (UBC)
July 9
We learned about the curious creatures and the diverse plants that live in our forests, the many ways they move, the many places they hide, and how they’ve adapted for this specific environment. We studied the anatomy of insects and plants by studying the shapes and patterns they’re comprised of and considered how these elements have helped them survive. Subsequently, we got creative and made our own insects by combing insect parts in our own unique ways. At the end of the day, we played games where we learned to wiggle and slither like bugs on the grounds and plants in the wind at a variety of speeds and rhythms.
Bug’s Life
Musqueam Park
July 16
This week we explored the diversity of living things around us and identified as many as we could, including bees, ducks, lily pads, and trees. We paid special attention to which plants and animals were grouped together and wondered why we didn’t see them as much in other places, like dragonflies and ponds. We noticed new differences between living things beyond size, such as habitat, behaviour, and colour. After familiarizing ourselves with our native plants and animals, we were able to notice exotic elements that didn’t fit in, such as bamboo. We discussed why these plants were in a non-native environment and how they might have gotten there.
Animal Diversity
Van Dusen Gardens
July 23
Today we put our engineering, technology, and design skills to the test by creating a minibeast paradise. We ensured the animals’ basic needs like food and water would be available with our designs. We considered the difference between our needs and behaviours and those of small creatures. Later, we expanded our insect vocabulary while learning the types of insects, their life cycles, and their characteristics. Using a partial image of insects, we used our artistic skills to fill in the rest. Most importantly, we learned to respect and empathize with even the tiniest of beasts that live among us.
Pollinators
Queen Elizabeth
July 30
Today we were detectives and searched for clues in our environment about which creatures had been there and what they had been doing there, like munched leaves and beetle bark. We considered where we would expect to find different creatures and why. We read a book all about water insects, and then talked about what we learned with each other. We then did some math and warmed our bodies up with a traffic light game and some insect-inspired dance moves!
Can I Plant it?
Camosun Bog
August 6
Tide Pool Adventure pt. 1: What Lives in this Pool?
Pacific Spirit Park (U-Hill Elementary)
August 13
Today we took a look at the bigger picture and learned about simple ecological relationships. We focused on bigger creatures in the forest–birds, mammals, fungi, and more–and the symbiotic relationships between them, and between them and their environment. While we enjoyed our snack, we read a few books about plants and animals. We made sure to enjoy some meditative time journalling, observing, and completing a math activity to round off the day. Lastly, we paid attention to aquatic habitats in preparation for next week’s class.
Today at Jericho Pond we paid attention to birds, noticing their physical features, abilities, and behaviours. To start, we sang songs as a group and lead a group discussion. In our discussion, we focused on being curious. We went on a nature walk which included a fun scavenger hunt, we practiced patterns with a math activity, and we had some unstructured play time. Throughout the day, we solidified our safety skills and by being independent and responsible during our play at the pond.
Tide Pool Adventure pt. 2: Is It Living?
Jericho Pond
August 20
Tide Pool Adventure pt. 3: Hungry Predators
Vanier Park
August 27
Today we continued thinking about birds, especially seagulls! We recalled some types of birds we learned about last week. When thinking about seagulls, we thought about how they sound and how they float on water. In between talking about gulls, we practiced printing and tracing. This activity taught us concepts like symmetry and counting. We were also introduced to the concept of pollution and learned about its causes and effects. We did some journaling and reflected on our day before wrapping up the final day of outdoor school!