Spring and Fall Programs

School Programs

Habitat Exploration:

Getting to Know the Natural Community

Get outside and discover nature first-hand by registering your class for our “Exploring Science: Habitat Study” program! This program explores the wonders of nature using our 26-acre property, which includes a study pond and 4 nature trails through a wetland, field, old-growth forest, and deciduous forest. The primary focus of this program is to compare and contrast various habitats, food chains, and animal relationships.

Students become scientists as they perform observations and tasks such as:

• Taking air temperature and studying weather conditions
• Examining soil samples
• Identifying plants, trees, animal tracks, and animal homes
• Observing animals such as birds, turtles, frogs, deer, beaver, and raccoon
• Netting and studying water insects, fish, frogs, and tadpoles

This program meets the following benchmarks:

SCI.I.1.E.1: Generate reasonable questions about the world based on observation.

SCI.I.1.E.3: Manipulate simple devices that aid observation and data collection.

SCI.I.1.E.4: Use simple measurement devices to make measurements in investigations.

SCI.II.1.E.4: Develop an awareness of and sensitivity to the natural world.

SCI.III.2.E.1: Explain characteristics and functions of observable body parts in animals.

SCI.III.2.E.2: Compare and contrast organisms based on observable characteristics.

SCI.III.2.E.3: Describe life cycles of familiar organisms.

SCI.III.2.E.4: Compare and contrast food, energy, and environmental needs of organisms.

SCI.III.4.E.2: Explain how characteristics of organisms help them survive in their habitat.

SCI.III.5.E.1: Identify familiar organisms as part of a food chain or food web.

SCI.III.5.E.2: Describe the basic requirements for all living things to exist.

SCI.III.5.E.4: Describe positive and negative effects of humans on the environment.

This Habitat Study is suitable to grades K-6, with a maximum of 60 students per visit. Classes normally visit from 9:30am-1:30pm, with a lunch break at the Council’s picnic area. The cost of this program is $2.00 for Girl Scout and $3.00 for non-Girl Scouts, and payment can be made the day of the program. To register or for further questions, call Tracey Smith, Science Coordinator, at (231) 744-4774 or email.

ALSO, Let us come to you! Our Exploring Science Program offers outreach to schools on two topics:

"Wonders of Weather"

"The Magic of Light and Sound"