Spring Environmental Education Programs
Grade levels in parentheses are suggested grades only,
based on the Michigan State Framework.

The Spring 2010 field trip season is now over.

(NEW!) To Be a Tree (PreK)
By pretending to be a tree, children will gain an awareness of a tree’s structure and functions. Children will learn how each part of a tree plays a role in helping it to function. Developmental components of this program include music, movement comparing, identifying and interactive play. (45 minutes)
Sharpening the Senses (K-1)
Students benefit from directed observation of nature. Their curiosity about everything around them is evident, and their interest in nature is keen. This nature hike is designed to enhance a student’s awareness of the five senses and the ways they can be used to gather information about our natural world. (45 minutes)

Healthy Habitats (1-3)
With a focus on the five necessary elements needed for a healthy habitat; food, water, shelter, space and air, students will explore and compare 3 or more  habitats.  With help from catagory cards, students will be “set loose” to actively search for all of the elements required for a healthy habitat. (1 hour)

Life in Water (3-5)
Using field guides and magnifying lenses to identify various aquatic insects, students observe the numerous adaptations of water-dwellers, the diversity of life found in water and the importance of aquatic habitats. Topics include how aquatic life determines water quality, and how the food chain extends to underwater habitats. (1 hour and 30 minutes)
Spring Sprouts (4-6)
Through identifying common wildflowers and spring plants, students learn the parts of a flower and their functions. Discussion includes how plants use their different characteristics to achieve pollination. Field guides and journals may also be provided upon request to increase observation and understanding. (1 hour)
Nature Study (3-8)
a simplified version is used for grades 3-5
Students combine personal observations and creativity while using the beauty of the natural world for inspiration. Students use a guiding worksheet to observe their surroundings. The worksheet focuses on the senses, micro and macro biology, general ecology, and some language arts. Teachers can then use the worksheet to assist other related units in the classroom. A simplified version is used for grades 3-5. (1 hour to 1.5 hours depending on age)

Signs of Spring (K-8)
Too much springtime energy? Students' brains have taken an early summer vacation? Want to get outside for some end of the year fun, but also cover science benchmarks? Join us for a guided nature hike to celebrate the end of the school year and coming summer! (1 hour)

LTC 101 (9-12)
A new program offered to high school science, conservation, or environmental classes interested in learning more about the non-profit world of conservation in northern Michigan. A great way to explore different career options and learn about the ways that some non-governmental organizations work to protect the natural environment. (1.5 hours)