Use the samples provided

Audience/Group Setting

Habitat Observations

This activity is designed to be completed in a camp or classroom setting.

Goal

To increase participants’ appreciation and understanding of nature through observation.

Objectives

Through participation in this activity, students will:

1. Practice observation skills
2. Practice journaling techniques

Big Idea/Main Message

Spending time outdoors observing nature is an excellent way to understand better the world in which we live. As people learn more about nature, they will start to appreciate it more and increase their desire to have a positive environmental impact.

Environmentally Responsible Behavior Addressed

Read, write and learn about wildlife and nature.

Background Information

A plethora of research has been done in the recent past to confirm the importance of spending time outdoors on a child’s development. As our day to day lives focus more and more on indoor activities, many of today’s children do not hear the term ‘go outside and play’ as much as children from generations past did. As a result, children may not have the opportunity to hone their observation skills concerning nature. By providing guided experiences with nature observations, environmental educators may be able to provide the tools necessary to enhance future (independent) nature experiences.

Materials Needed

1. The Empty Lot by Dale Fife.
2. Paper, pencils and clipboards for