Study the World Around You - Just Like a Biologist
PURPOSE
Observing our natural world is a big part of how we know our climate is changing over time. Observations of nature can be anything from sizes, numbers, types, temperatures outside, sounds, colours. Biologists get out into the field to make these observations and take measurements. When biologists get out into the “field” (anywhere outside they are studying), they usually take their field journal with them.
GRADE LEVELS
1-6
TIME NEEDED
30-45 minutes
Curriculum LINKS
Grade 1, Science, Topic B:Seasonal Changes
Grade 1, Science, Topic E: Needs of Animals & Plants
Grade 4, Science, Topic E: Plant Growth & Changes
Grade 3, Science, Topic E: Small Crawling & Flying Animals
Grade 5, Science, Topic D: Weather Watch
Grade 6, Science, Trees & Forests
Grade 1-6, English Language Arts
MATERIALS NEEDED
Download: Field Guide Template (also, see example below)
Pencil
Instructions
1. Find a large window or go into your schoolyard to view nature. It could be grass, moss, trees, insects, birds or any other wildlife. It could also be signs of wildlife, scat (poop), foot prints, etc.
2. Have participants fill out their own field journal entry like this example. If possible, make observations multiple times over the year! The more comparisons the better.
More Bring Nature Home for Teachers
Bring Nature Home is our online database of tried-and-tested CPAWS Southern Alberta activities! Here are some ways that you can bring nature home (or to the classroom) today!