By the end of this activity, students will:
know that relationships in nature are part of a system: people, plants, and animals have complex partnerships with surprising connections.
know that 2nd graders can take actions that have significant positive impacts locally.
be able to recognize their local biodiversity and build respect for the variety of living things that team up to regenerate healthy communities of nature.
Days: Mondays - Tuesdays; November-February
Times: 10:15am or 11:30am, some flexibility in start or end time can be requested, but is not guaranteed.
Duration: 45 minutes of fun, including close-up observations, story making, and a hands-on game.
Location: Educators will meet classes at the Classroom on Level 3.
Additional Supports: This program can be taught bilingually or solely in Spanish or Chinese. Additionally, we use inclusive instructional design. Please reach out to us if there are specific accommodations that would help your group engage with the activities. therockprogram@calacademy.org
Transportation: A Guide to Securing a Paid Sponsored Bus for San Francisco Unified School District
2nd Grade Life Science Disciplinary Core Idea: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems - Plants depend on animals for pollination or to move their seeds around.
Science & Engineering Practices: Constructing Explanations - Make observations (firsthand or from media) to construct an evidence-based account for natural phenomena. (2-PS1-3)
Systems Thinking
Empathy & Interest
In the days before your field trip, help your class prepare:
Consider visiting our Extension Activities
Have 5 groups ready upon arrival
Let Student Education Coordinator know if there are any important notes in regards to your class needs that would be helpful for Educators to know to best support your class
On the day of your field trip:
Have students use the restroom prior to the program start time
Consider allowing your students a snack before the start of the program
Masks are required for all adults and children with persistent cough or sneeze
Let Student Education Coordinator know if there are schedule changes on day of field trip
Meeting Place:
The Classroom (stairs/elevators in lower right area of map) is located on Level 3 (third floor) of the museum.
Upon entering the museum, go past the T-Rex and turn right. Restrooms are adjacent to the stairs.
Our educator(s) will meet you outside the classroom door before the start of the class.
These printer-friendly maps with tips for chaperones can help set you set the tone for your class's helpful adults.
Social stories help young people know what to expect and how to act in a new environment or social situation.
The social story below helps students learn about their upcoming field trip. Some students and their families may have never taken a trip to a museum like the Academy. To help them know what to expect, to aid your class in transitions, or to alleviate anxiety of a new place, you may use the social story below.
You can also download the presentation to adjust it to fit your specific trip plans.
Check out a Sensory Kit:
The Academy now offers sensory kits to any visitor in need of extra sensory support during their visit. Kits include sensory-friendly backpacks, adjustable earmuffs, a pair of sunglasses, and an assortment of tactile and fidget toys. Additional items for specific sensory needs are available upon request. Available for checkout on a first-come, first-served basis at coat check.