Off-screen Adventure: Nature Journal Circle for K-2
In this ongoing weekly circle, students will bring their own off-screen nature journal findings to share with a group of other young naturalists. No experience necessary!
Kirsten Fairbanks
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(8)
What's included
1 live meeting
40 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
Young students will become naturalists and learn how to observe and document the natural world in their own local area-- even their own front porch or back yard. I will teach K-2 learners the habits and practices that comprise a naturalist journaling process and model how it is done by sharing from my own nature journal. Each meeting will be unique, based upon what discoveries students decide to share from the observation and research they conduct during the week when we are not in class. The first four sessions will break down this way: Week of October 10 -- What is a nature journal? Why should you keep one? Ice-breaker game and student share. Week of October 17 -- Famous nature journalist: Beatrix Potter, plus student share Week of October 24 -- From Ms. Kirsten's nature journal: Ground Squirrels, plus student share Week of October 31-- Halloween nature journal: Pumpkin nature study, plus student share Learners can drop in or out any time. No previous experience is necessary! My primary aim is to make each learner feel important and welcome. My teaching style is warm and conversational, with songs, chants, and rhymes to make memorization easy for young learners. As we go, we will practice active listening, group sharing, and taking turns. Students will learn from each other about the natural world in their local regions. Learners will also get an introduction to such naturalist tools as taxonomy (how organisms are classified-- all of those mysterious Latin names), and occurrences such as seasons, moon cycles, and weather patterns. Keeping a nature journal of their own may prove to be a lifelong hobby for young learners, beyond this class and off-screen.
Learning Goals
Students will learn how to observe, document, and talk about the natural world. Students will practice active listening, group sharing, and taking turns. Students will have fun meeting other kids who enjoy learning- and talking about nature.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
A small bit of acting as scribe may be needed for learners who don't yet write.
Supply List
For research outside the class: Colored pencils, crayons, or markers. I will provide a printable blank nature journal master for you to download. A blank notebook or even scratch paper may also be used if you prefer.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined August, 2022
5.0
8reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am an avid outdoorswoman and trained Permaculture practitioner with years of experience leading pre-K - 8th grade ecology and nature journaling groups. As an American Studies major at UC Berkeley, I researched Classical Education theory and practice in the US and I minored in Classical Studies, the history and cultures of Ancient Greece- and Rome. As a former working class kid, I believe that every child should have access to a high-quality liberal arts education. I offer learning opportunities that exceed state standards and spark a deep love of learning. I love my work helping families access a top quality education out of the private schools and into the home. Reviews
Live Group Class
$12
weekly1x per week
40 min
Completed by 1 learner
Live video meetings
Ages: 5-7
3-6 learners per class
