Biodiversity and Ecology in Your Backyard
In this class, your learners will discover the unique biodiversity in their own backyard. They will learn how all forms of life depend on each other for survival and see how their own actions can affect the diversity in their own backyard.
Andrew Updegraff
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(39)
What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
We will discuss how plants and animals all rely on one another in a given ecosystem, and how removing even one variable from the equation can affect the entire system. Afterwards we will bring the lesson down to a more relatable area of influence- the learner's own backyard. The lesson will be largely taught through PowerPoint and open discussion, with open ended and thought-provoking questions asked of the learners. There are no prerequisites or prior knowledge required, as this is a beginner's course.
Learning Goals
Students will gain an understanding about how our small interactions with nature can change an entire ecosystem on a large scale; how one action can have many unintended consequences. Topics covered will include the intentional eradication and near extinction of the Gray Wolf from Yellowstone and it's consequences, and how the students can similarly affect the ecosystem of their own backyard.
Other Details
Supply List
No supplies, just be prepared to participate in discussions.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2020
4.8
39reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hi, I'm Andrew Updegraff!
I enjoy spending time with my family, gardening, my six chickens, finding new hobbies, and always learning something new. I live on a .177 acre lot in the middle of a larger city. I enjoy spending time outside in my yard, which includes 200 square feet of gardens, a chicken coop, one walnut tree, my kids' sandbox, a workshop, a compost bin, and a shed. I grow trees, fruits, vegetables, flowers and grains. There's always a new project and a new learning experience going on.
During college I spent several years volunteering in after-school programs for elementary aged students, and worked as a substitute teacher for two school districts. My wife has been a teacher for several years, and we have two little boys of our own.
As a hands-on learner myself, most of my classes will revolve around being outdoors and learning through experience. Students will get a chance to see my garden, and meet my chickens, and any other critters that we may come across. Many projects taught will be easily accessible to students who live in a variety of areas. For example, even if you live in an apartment, you can still participate in small-scale gardening. I believe in learning by doing, and that's how I teach.
If I don't offer a class at a time good for you, just ask, I'm happy to schedule a different time. Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$8
per classMeets once
30 min
Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-12
2-6 learners per class
