Curriculum

Webster's outdoor education program allows 8th graders to strengthen their understanding of various topics while exploring and appreciating nature. The objectives of our program are:

• To make classroom learning more meaningful through unique, practical outdoor experiences.

• To learn about making decisions democratically with others in the outdoor experience while practicing their leadership skills.

• To learn to become more self-reliant and discover more about individual personal characteristics/interests.

• To enable teachers to gain rapport and get to know students better, and to develop stronger relationships.

All students will take part in the following classes on a rotating basis:

Science: Mr. Marcks and Mrs. Rogahn

Wetland Exploration and Ecosystem Evaluation

Through a pond and wetland experience, students learn about the importance of a wetland ecosystem by identifying plants and animals and then relating that to water quality. They will measure living and nonliving factors to evaluate the different ecosystems at Camp Minikani. In addition, students will apply the science of fire building by challenging themselves to create and maintain a small campfire. 

Math: Ms. Kappler, Ms. Cole, and Mrs. Rosin 

Mini Metric Olympics

Math classes participate in six activities as part of a “Mini-Metric Olympics." Students use the metric system for measuring in units such as centimeters, milliliters, and grams instead of the commonly used inches and pounds. Students improve techniques for measuring, recording, and estimating. These are all critical skills that are utilized throughout the school year in both math and science classes.

Social Studies: Mr. Johnson and Ms. Downs

GPS Scavenger Hunt

Students will learn how Global Positioning Systems work and how to operate GPS units. They will use GPS units to navigate their way through an American History scavenger hunt while snacking on a s'more.  

English Language Arts: Mrs. Manning,  Mrs. Knudson, and Mrs. Kroemer

     Creative Storytelling

Using communication skills as a group, students will participate in a variety of activities: creating a story incorporating select mystery items, racing in a crazy verb relay, and utilizing their observation skills to solve a puzzle. These team-building activities require speaking, listening, writing, creative thinking, and cooperation. 

Art: Ms. Meleski & Mrs. Olp

Minikani T-Shirt Making and Observational Drawing or Bracelet Making

Students will utilize their creative skills to add color and design to their Minikani t-shirt.  Students will be using Sharpie markers to create their design and tie-dye to add color to their shirt. Along with creating their shirt, students have the opportunity to create bracelets.

Physical Education: Ms. Mann and Mr. Anderson

Archery

Students will review safety rules, proper range procedures, shooting form, and aiming strategies. This will be followed by students applying target practice. Students will be challenged in various individual and group shooting contests throughout the class period.

Minikani Outdoors: Mrs. Brown & Minikani Staff

Rock Climbing and Ropes Course

Students will receive instruction on the Ropes and Rock Climbing course from Camp Minikani staff.

PLTW: Mr. Skipper & Mrs. Mick

       Creative Problem Solving

Students will be assigned a group and a specific task. Students will have 10 minutes of collaboration and design time, followed by the opportunity to solve the given task. Students will need to work together to solve the given problem creatively.

Minikani Outdoors: Minikani Staff

       Canoeing 

Each homeroom will receive canoeing instruction from Camp Minikani staff.