Nature Walk
What makes acorns so fascinating to children? I still remember a beautiful autumn day from my elementary school years in Japan. We walked to the forest and spent the entire day there, discovering countless acorns. It was a wonderful experience.
I want our learners to become familiar with the nature that surrounds them. Fortunately, our school grounds have many native Texas trees and plants, where we can also encounter various creatures. Our learners love visiting the eco pond to observe the fish and plants there. I hope that connecting with nature during childhood has a positive impact on their lives and our environment.
🌳 B1, R1, P5, YK, and B2 (Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, and 5th grade classes) on 11/12, 13,14, & 21
It was a perfect week for a nature walk, and I appreciated that each class could spend 45 to 60 minutes outside. The kindergarteners, first graders, second graders, and even the fifth graders were all excited to find acorns. We took a class picture in front of the oak tree at the back entrance.
During their walk, the first grade learners discovered various natural items. They were excited to find both small and large acorns, vibrant Swiss chard, a variety of flowers in different colors and shapes, and various insects.
The children asked numerous questions about the plants and animals in the garden and examined pamphlets about Texas butterflies, dragonflies, and spiders. They also enjoyed observing the fish and dragonflies at the eco pond.
Additionally, they touched the leaves of autumn sage to enjoy its refreshing fragrance. In nature, children engage their senses beyond just sight, including smell and touch.
The fifth grade learners discovered a large wasp nest on the oak tree. Some learners spotted a yellow butterfly and attempted to identify it using a butterfly pamphlet. They were also enthusiastic photographers, excited to capture a picture of the rainbow created by the water from the sprinklers!
The Kindergarteners were excited to discover sprouting bluebonnets. They also found a large black caterpillar on the back of a Chinese cabbage leaf. The caterpillar was big and hairy, which caught the attention of many learners. They took some great pictures!
After one week, the oak tree leaves were turning a bit red, and we noticed the true leaves of the bluebonnets emerging. One of the second grade learners said, “I found eggs in the water” near the eco pond. After we observed them closely, the teacher discovered that they were actually bird droppings!
🔍 Can We Find Bluebonnets in the Fall?
Did you know that bluebonnets begin to sprout at this time of year? We explored the field next to the garden in search of them. During the week of 11/11, we mostly found baby leaves. However, after just one week, on 11/21, the B2 learners discovered that true leaves had started to grow. Compared to last year, this year’s growth seems to be a little delayed. We will continue to observe the bluebonnets at our school throughout the year!
Nature Walk and Photography Competition
Throughout their walk, learners from all grades eagerly captured photographs for the photo competition, enabling them to view familiar scenery from different perspectives. Even at school, nature presents endless wonders for children!
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