Just Don’t Call it Dirt!
Posted by Carlene GordonOur third and fourth grade scientists discovered that fall is a great time to visit the Audubon! On a recent crisp and sunny autumn day, we took the short trip together for a day of outdoor learning and fun.
Third graders focused on studying soils and the vital role soil plays in all life forms. Our young scientists were equipped with electronic soil temperature probes, soil samplers, soil color and insect guides and spoons to gentle move small amounts of decaying matter. Through the hour plus long trek through the trails of the Audubon, students stopped at a meadow, a woodland and a marsh to gather soil temperatures, color samples and life forms in the soil. Students carefully measured and recorded at each stop.
In the meantime, fourth graders investigated rocks and minerals. The visit began with students analyzing various properties of rocks. Students were presented with kits to test rocks for hardness, color, luster, and streak and given instructions in how to measure each. Afterward, students were lead by an educator through the trails surrounding the Audubon. There, students were able to apply the skills they learned to the real world around them. Students discovered many samples of gneiss, schist and examined signs of weathering and erosion.
After the hike, students gathered inside the Audubon to perform further investigations on various rocks, minerals and soils. The trip wrapped up with students drawing conclusions from all the data collected on the hikes.
We extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to the wonderful educators at the Audubon!
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