What's included
1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hours per weekHomework
1 hour per week. Students are encouraged to get outside at least once a week. They are to find at least one aspect of nature that is interesting to them. If possible, students may bring that item to class. (For example a pinecone) Students may also bring a picture of what they found interesting. Optional: students can look up their object of interest in a field guide to share what they know with the group.Class Experience
US Grade 3 - 6
***See Schedule Below*** The aim for this ongoing class is to awaken a sense of excitement, joy and discovery of the natural world. We begin class with a time of sharing what each learner has observed in their outdoor adventures. I will present a short nature lesson on a specific topic (see schedule below) by way of observation (live or a photo). I pose questions to the class to encourage further examination. Then students will make a nature notebook entry. I will have a drawing tutorial to be done in class or after class if time or interest runs out. Occasionally we will have a Kahoot quiz to review learning. Students are encouraged to get outside each week and bring to class objects or pictures of anything they find interesting. Even in the busiest of cities nature can be observed. Students are encouraged to learn about their discovery and create additional journal entries. September: Monthly Observation - Wildflowers, Birds 6th Black Eyed Susan 13th Lady Bugs 20th Bison Vs Buffalo 27th Starfish October: Monthly Observation - Trees, Birds, Garden, Bugs 4th Crow 11th slugs, snails, leeches 18th No Class 25th Vampire Squid November: Monthly Observation - Trees, Wildlife 1st Skunk 8th Oak Tree 15th Chickens 22nd No Class 29th Salamander December: Monthly Observation - Temperature 6th Cardinal 13th Winter Stars 20th No Class 27th No Class January: Monthly Observation - Temperature, Moon Chart 3rd No Class 10th No Class 17th Hibernating animals 24th Pinecones 31st Winter Stars/The Moon February: Monthly Observation - Sunrise/Sunset, Moon Chart 7th Narwhal 14th No Class 21st Animal Tracks 28th Bulb Flowers March: Monthly Observation - Signs of Spring, Bird Chart 6th Bird Migration 13th Fox 20th Animal and Plant Partnerships 27th Sugar Maple Tree April: Monthly Observation - Signs of Spring, Garden, Birds 3rd No Class 10th Earthworm 17th Hummingbird 24th Tide Pools May: Monthly Observation - Clouds and Weather 1st Thistle 8th Grasshopper 15th Poppy 22nd Last Class :( I am always happy to change up the schedule to include student favorites. Charlotte Mason, a turn of the century educator, said: "Let them [children] once get in touch with nature and a habit is formed which will be a source of delight and habit through life."
Learning Goals
Students will develop the foundational science skills of observation, questioning and recording.
Students will develop the skill of research as they look for information about their natural observations.
Students will also develop artistic skills as they draw what they see in nature.
Other Details
Supply List
The Out-Of-Doors :) A notebook to keep record of their findings and to record information from classroom lessons. A pencil. Optional: Colored pencils, pencils, scissors, glue, printer, tape.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
I may share a YouTube video to illustrate a lesson. This will be previewed for appropriate content.
Learners have enjoyed drawing tutorials. I will share links for these in the classroom.
I will sometimes have a Kahoot quiz for the students to enjoy in or out of class.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Colorado Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Bachelor's Degree in English from Colorado State University-Pueblo (Formerly University of Southern Colorado)
I have been a Charlotte Mason homeschool teacher for many years. It is our preferred method of learning. It is meant to inspire and give learners skills, tools and a desire to know more about the world around them. Charlotte Mason teachers "spread the feast" and allow students to take what nourishes them.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$16
weekly1x per week
45 min
Completed by 35 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-13
2-6 learners per class