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The second-grade curriculum was focused on the NGSS standard 2-LS4-1: Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats. To meet this standard, second graders learned about common species found in Douglas-fir forests highlighting the interactions and relationships had in nature. The lessons used species that are local to the arboretum, to teach about biodiversity, forest layers, and symbiotic relationships, all of which shine a light on the diversity of life. The lessons implemented concepts related to the scientific processes, questioning, and language arts.
Classroom Lessons
Five Layers of the Forest
This lesson taught the layers of a Douglas-fir forest and highlighted the different kinds of animals that can be found in them. This built on observation skills further by: 1) having the students draw animals and 2) thinking about the traits they observed or drew to place them in the habitat that best suits the animal.
Working Together
This lesson introduced 2nd graders to symbiotic relationships and the 3 types of relationships we see in nature. Using a matching activity, students tried to match organisms by figuring out what species of plants/animals closely interact. The final part of the lesson was a collaborative block activity to act out the different kinds of relationships.
Field Trip: Working Together!
During the field trip, the 2nd graders arrive at Mt. Pisgah Arboretum ready to build upon their scientific learning from class. The lesson plan featured a "DougQuest-Fir" scavenger hunt that allowed students to use their critical thinking and observation skills to find various species outside. The species on the scavenger hunt live throughout all levels of the forest and are an applicable example of the many types of symbiotic relationships. The components of the quest reinforced the specific scientific concepts within the classroom lessons by showcasing them to students in the natural world. We also embraced child passions during the trip by encouraging play, discovery, inquiry, and adventure. These child passions led to exciting and spontaneous learning opportunities that wouldn't be present in the classroom.
A look into 2nd grade's nature journals!
A look into 2nd grade's nature journals!
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