Nature Expeditions: Fall Nature Science Grades 1 & 2
What's included
10 live meetings
8 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Homework based on class topics can be made available upon request.Projects
Projects ideas based on class topics can be made available upon request.Assessment
A written assessment of progress can be made available upon request.Letter Grade
A letter grade can be made available at the end of class with a written assessment. Please be aware, in order to provide a letter grade all pages of work will need to be turned in by the last day of class.Grading
A pass/ no pass grade can be made available at the end of class with a written assessment.Class Experience
US Grade 1 - 2
Beginner Level
Welcome to the Nature Expeditions class, a small group nature science class designed for 1st and 2nd graders! This class integrates science, art, and literacy to create a fun and educational experience. Throughout the 10-week class, learners will explore various aspects of nature, enhance their observation skills, and express their findings creatively through visual notes in their expedition notebook. Learners will be given a note page to fill out for the lesson with their own notes and drawings. They may also opt to keep their own notebook of observations. A copy of the master notes will be available after class. Each class is designed to stand alone, so learners can join at any time. The class is structured into weekly sessions, each focusing on a specific aspect of nature and science. This is the Fall session of Nature Expeditions. The curriculum is designed to build skills progressively, starting with foundational concepts and moving towards more detailed observations and creative expressions. There is no homework at this grade level. Teaching Method • Interactive lessons with live demonstrations and models when available. • Learners will participate in guided drawing and note-taking activities based on their observations. • Learners are encouraged to share their work and discuss their findings with peers. • Fun games, fact sharing, and quizzes will reinforce learning and keep learners engaged. My teaching style is interactive and learner-centered. I focus on encouraging curiosity and creativity while providing support and guidance. Each learner is given the freedom to explore and express their unique perspectives on nature. This class is a small-group structured class, limited to four learners, to enhance my ability to focus on the needs of each child while creating opportunities for the learners to interact. This class was designed with homeschooling families in mind. If you are interested in tutoring or learning support please contact me directly. Enroll your learner for an exciting journey into the world of Nature Expeditions, where learning and creativity go hand in hand!
Learning Goals
Learners will learn to develop their observational and basic notetaking skills.
Learners will learn how to create detailed drawings of their observations and use visual notetaking to document their findings.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)10 Lessons
over 10 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Nature Notebooks and Visual Note-taking
Learners will be introduced to the concept of nature notebooks and the process of visual notetaking. Their first journal entry will be an introduction to themselves and their favorite science facts.
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Scientific Method
Learners will be taught the basics of the scientific method and how we apply the process. This lesson will include looking at pictures of the environment, bugs, and animals to utilize the scientific method.
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Exploring Our Senses
In this class, Learners will be suing their senses to explore the world around them. Students will explore sounds, visuals, and use their imagination to describe the world around them.
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Weather Observations
Learners will develop an understanding of the weather. Students will document their weather every class going forward
50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
I am committed to providing an inclusive class environment that welcomes students of all abilities. If your child has specific needs that require accommodations, please feel free to contact me.
Supply List
A printable page for note taking will be provided before the week of class. Please print this prior to class for your learner. Your learner should also bring two pencils, a pencil sharpener, color pencils, and crayons to class. If your learner opts for a notebook to take their own visual notes please make sure it is a composition sized notebook. Lined or unlined is up to your learner. Plain printer paper would also be acceptable.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree from California State University, East Bay
Bachelor's Degree in English Language and Literature from University of California, Santa Cruz
Hello! I'm Danielle Jimenez Williams, a passionate nature artist and educator specializing in teaching environmental art and science, nature journaling and education, as well as many other topics. I have spent more than 10 years in teaching in a homeschool and traditional school setting. I am dedicated to helping students discover the wonder of nature through substantive learning, art, hands on observation, and visual notes. I have guided countless students in learning about and capturing the beauty of the natural world on paper. My teaching style is patient, encouraging, and tailored to the individual needs of each student.
I believe in creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Having worked with a variety of students who have varying need for accommodation, I understand the importance of making accommodations to ensure all students feel comfortable and successful in their educational journey. If you or your child require any specific accommodations, please don't hesitate to contact me, and I will do my best to meet your needs.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$20
weekly or $200 for 10 classes1x per week, 10 weeks
50 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 6-8
2-4 learners per class