Place-based Science for Educators: Module 2
Welcome to Module 2!
Module 2 Theme: Reading the Local Landscape
Central Questions:
- What determines the composition and character of our local forests?
- What tree is THAT? And why should I care?
- How can forests, trees, and rocks provide opportunities for place-based science?
In this second module, we will sharpen our skills of “reading” the natural landscape. These frameworks and skills are foundational to any aspiring naturalist, and can be adapted to students of a variety of ages. Check out the module introduction video and table below for a preview of where we’re going.
Module Overview:
|
Components |
Modality |
Activities and Assignments |
|
Part #1: Natural Communities |
Asynchronous |
Watch: Natural communities and factors that affect them Read: Reading the Forested Landscape (Wessels), intro and chapter on topography and substrate [Optional] Wetland, Woodland Wildland (Thompson and Sorenson) introduction |
|
Part #2: Trees |
Asynchronous |
Watch: Introduction to tree identification; high and low-tech tools for tree ID |
|
Part #3: Assignments |
Asynchronous |
Visit and Submit: Return to your wonder journal site to complete your second assignment Submit: Draft and submit initial ideas your ideas for Place Plan in your course notebook |
|
Part 4: Live Session |
Fri, July 12 3:00 – 4:30PM Zoom |
Debrief wonder journal visit; connections to science concepts and skills Place plan brainstorm |