Make-Your-Own Field Guides

Make-Your-Own Field Guides

How long it’ll take:

25-45 Mins

What the goal is:

Campers will make their own field guide and have a space to observe the nature/wildlife in their backyard or nearby park.

What the objectives are:

Campers will make their own field guide and draw/write a minimum of 3 observations of the natural world around them.

What you’ll need: Per camper

• 2 pieces of blank paper

• Writing and coloring utensils

• Scissors

What you’ll do:

1. Walk each camper through folding their piece of blank paper into a field guide!

• Option 1: Fold sheet of paper hamburger style and then while it is folded that way, fold it like an accordion (⅓ fold one way, ⅓ fold the other) to make a double sided pamphlet.

• Option 2 (Best for older campers): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21qi9ZcQVto

2. Have campers record 3-5 different living things they see around them. These could be plants, animals, insects, or people. Encourage them to draw what they see (using color if they have it!) and to record answers to 3-4 questions about each living thing (instructors choice. Make them age appropriate).

• Example questions: How big is it (give measurable answer)? What colors does it have? What does it eat or what does it need for nutrients? Where is it commonly found? What environment does it live in? How does it protect itself? What does it smell like?

3. Give campers as much time as you think they want/need for this activity. (Generally 15-30 minutes)

4. Once campers have completed their observations (drawings and write ups), have each camper share what they’ve observed with the group. Celebrate each campers creativity and observations!

Optional Debrief Questions:

1. Besides us, who else makes and uses field guides? Why?

2. How did you feel taking time to closely observe each living thing you recorded?

3. To continue working on our powers of observation, imagine you were able to "interview" the wildlife that you just recorded in your field guide. what are some questions you might ask a natural feature or a plant? What are some questions you would ask an animal or insect? How would they respond?

   • Example questions for natural feature/plant: How old are you? Where did you come from? Who comes to visit you? What events have you seen in your life? How do you benefit others? How do others help you?

   • Example questions for animals/insects: Where do you live? What do you like to do every day? Do you have a favorite place to travel to? What do you want others to know about you? What do you like most about yourself? Who is your best friend?)