This week we had an awesome day in our very own CSUF Arboretum! The Arboretum is a wonderful resource that many people do not even know exists. As for myself, I know that it is there and have been there before, but found myself wondering why I don't go more often.
Before our class, we got together early and had a picnic lunch. It was fun to relax and enjoy each other's company!
Then we went off to explore the different environments at the Arboretum, I visited the deciduous forest and the chaparral, to "adopt" a tree. I chose a Redwood tree to adapt. Redwood trees are known as "California Giants," but are found across North America and in some parts of Europe. Here are a few pictures of my tree:
A Haiku to my tree:
The giant Redwood
Towers in the thick forest
Gently protecting
We were reminded that we share our Earth with many other creatures....
Our text for this week reminded us of the importance of the informal science curriculum, that is those things that happen in nature right in our own backyard that we need to investigate. One highlight of the chapter that I was particularly interested in was the information on "Green Science," which highlights the importance of conservation and leaving a lighter environmental footprint. Chapter 5 also listed guidelines and helpful tips for creating a science corner in the classroom and tips for outdoor science experiences.
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These past few weeks have flown by so quickly and as I look back on this blog I can really see just how much we have done and grown. I have learned so much about the importance of inquiry based learning and seen just how excited students get when they actually get to put their hands on the materials and explore with them. It has been such a rich experience for me and cannot wait until I will be able to use the new skills I have learned in the classroom.
I leave you with a quote and another picture of the beauty at the Arboretum...
Nature does not hurry,
yet everything is accomplished.
~Lao Tzu
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