Ecosystem Observer

• This outdoor learning module guides students through observing, recording, and presenting ecosystem observations in their area through a multi-lesson project.
• Students will select a topic, make multiple observations on that topic, then create a nature note to present their findings.
• There are downloadable teacher guides and student pages for each step of the project, including a student noteboook that guides them through the entire process.
  

Positives

• There are many opportunities for student choice throughout this learning module, so students will feel like they have some autonomy in their learning.
• The opportunity to submit their nature notes to "Findings in the Field" gives students an authentic purpose for their work, especially if they also participate in the citizen science projects.

Additional Prerequisites

• It may be beneficial to discuss with students what plants and animal species you have locally.
• You will need to request access to the resources on stunk bugs and dragonflies provided on page 6 of the teacher guide.
• For the Building Background Knowledge step, students may need explicit instruction for how to use books, field guides, or the Internet to research their topic. They may also need to be reminded to save their sources and that Google is not a source, but a search engine containing many sources.

Differentiation

• To introduce more independent students to scientific observation, groups or pairs of students can go through stations reading multiple nature notes together, then record and discuss what most nature notes have in common.
• Students who struggle with finding something to observe can practice recording what they experience with their five senses (remind students not to taste anything, for safety).
• After completing this lesson, time to return to the observation spot can be incorporated into a daily, weekly, or monthly class routine.
• It may be helpful to create an anchor chart with students about safety measures that need to be taken while observing outside. This chart can hang in the room year-round.