Tuckahoe MS

Finding Common Ground through Place-Based Learning

Henrico Learner Profile (HLP) 6C Focus

8th Grade - Earth Science

SOL/Standard - ES.8 The student will investigate and understand that freshwater resources influence and are influenced by the geologic processes and activities of humans.

Learning Experience

In this learning experience, all Tuckahoe Earth Science students joined their teachers in a 4-mile hike around Belle Isle to gain first-hand knowledge about the different Earth Science concepts in real life! This place-based learning allowed for all students to experience nature as it connects to science, as well as, created an equitable experience so that all students have background knowledge when diving into new topics.

Students were challenged to solve different missions in the Goose Chase App at different GPS locations throughout the field trip. Through the completion of these missions, students were able to identify, explore, and interact with science as it is found in our local ecosystem.

What did the student(s) learn about this experience:

"The James River was so much fun! I loved seeing the river and how the rock formations are made here in my hometown of Richmond Virginia. With the goose chase, I felt like I learned so much about our watershed and how the environment here in RVA works. With goose chase it was very cool how you could make it to place a check in with the GPS feature and taking pictures of the places was cool. I felt immersed with the goose chase and it was even better with my friends. It is one of my favorite field trips I have ever been on. Thank you Mr. Short " - Carrington

What did the teacher enjoy about this experience:

"In reflection, the trip was a huge success in setting the tone for the entire year’s curriculum in moving forward it can be enhanced more with continued reference to the places throughout the year. " - Rick Short

Additional Pictures, Media & Artifacts

Belle Isle

Students hiking through Belle Isle

Andrew Frieden (NBC 12) helping students locate and identify plants

Students experiencing place-based learning along the James River

Thank you to the innovators who helped make this experience possible:

Rick Short
Becca Williams
Ann Greene
Eric Byers

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