Extended Outdoor Science Activity Sequences
Teachers and schools that are looking for an in-depth, multi-day sequence of outdoor learning activities will find the following resources helpful. They were developed by the BEETLES Project at The Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley, and guide educators in leading a sequence of outdoor activities that are woven together by an instructional theme. The sequences help students build their understanding of science practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas, while also offering educators flexibility in terms of the amount of time needed and the activities selected.
Key information. These activities are best suited for third through eighth-grade in-person instruction in small or large groups. Some science background is helpful for teachers in implementing these sequences. Since an ecosystem is made up of all the living and nonliving things that interact in a particular place, a schoolyard, small grassy area, garden, or local park can all be considered ecosystems and are well-suited settings for these sequences. The sequences help students work toward one or a few identified Next Generation Science Standards Performance Expectations.
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RESOURCEs
Extended Outdoor Learning Experience Sequence: Adaptations, Structure, and Function. This sequence was written specifically for classroom teachers intending to use the outdoors for learning in a series of outdoor activities lasting 45-60 minutes each.
Extended Outdoor Learning Experience Sequence: Ecosystems (and Matter). This sequence was written and published for use as an extended (2-3 hours or 4-6 hours) field experience for use in informal programs. It can be easily adapted for a series of shorter (45-60 minutes) learning experiences that can be led anywhere outdoors with nature (e.g., schoolyards). See the planning chart on pages 9-10 for more guidance.
Credits
These Extended Outdoor Learning Experience Sequences were written by Kevin Beals, The BEETLES Project, at University of California, Berkeley, supported by Kelly Grindstaff, Sarah Pedemonte, and Craig Strang of The Lawrence Hall of Science at University of California, Berkeley.
National COVID-19 Outdoor Learning Initiative
The National COVID-19 Outdoor Learning Initiative supports schools and districts around the country in their efforts to reopen safely and equitably using outdoor spaces as strategic, cost-effective solutions to increase physical distancing capacity onsite and provide access to abundant fresh air. The Initiative seeks to equitably improve learning, mental and physical health, and happiness for children and adults using an affordable, time-tested outdoor approach to keeping schools open during a pandemic.
