Grade 4
Grade 4 students will engage with nature practicing their noticing and wonderings skills and make connections to their own lives. Students will explore the ways organisms communication with each other and how it benefits them.
Note: All adults who work with children in the Big Backyard program must have a valid CORI . Please click here to fill out a CORI form. CORI checks are good for 3 years.
Read the guide before your walk to familiarize yourself with areas to visit and activities.
Pre-Walk Training at School
It is strongly recommended that volunteers attend the on-site training at your school. Trainings are 30-45 minutes, typically, on the day of the walk, and begin in the lobby. If you are unsure of when the training occurs look back at the signup email or contact your Big Backyard team.
View these 15 minute videos to learn an overall approach to guiding children outdoors as well as modeling of the activities on each specific walk.
Additional tips are available to support you as you lead students on their explorations.
Fall
What Scientists Do
Students will consider what it means to be a good observer, engage with nature through the science practices, connect to their own lived experiences, and identify as scientists.
Winter
Animal Adaptation - Coping with the Cold
Students will learn about local animals and the different structural and behavioral adaptations that help them survive in winter.
Spring
Animal Communication
Students will explore how animals communicate by investigating how animals, including humans, use their internal and external structures to sense the world.