Describes a field study of dragonflies and damselflies. After a bit of background reading and equipped with paper, pencil, insect net, and work sheet in hand, students will come to appreciate the behaviors of these insects as they gain a deeper understanding of the natural world. (PR)

Describes science activities for a field trip to the beach for sixth-grade students. Explains how students can save what they find using plaster of Paris to create a sand cast. (PR)

Compares the ability of teaching history thematically to excite students with traditional chronological approaches to history instruction. Argues that immigration provides an excellent model for learning thematically because it is one of the most personal and engaging topics. Presents a brief history of immigration to the United States along with…

Describes a two-day interdisciplinary field trip for a group of 63 ninth graders that was followed up in the classroom with related units in history, art, biology, English, and drama. Describes how the students were challenged to use nature to discover who they were, observing closely and then letting go in order to think and connect. (SR)

Presents tips for organizing and conducting effective science-related field trips. Topics include: Develop a Thematic Approach; Engage Expert Leaders; Provide Important Creature Comforts (transportation and facilities); Supply Useful Learning Materials; Provide Delicious Creature Comforts (food); Create a Comfortable Networking Environment;…

Exhibits are a way of self-guided presentation in which visitors use their own knowledge and understanding. Studies a self-guided group visiting an exhibition on dinosaurs which are displayed as robotic models. Finds that the animatronics have a well thought out storyline that increases family and school visitors' understanding of the exhibit…

Discusses university field courses and field trips. Offers alternatives to summer fieldwork, describing college-level field trips during spring, autumn, and winter. Concludes that the fun of fieldwork is essential and that a dialogue should occur between university instructors and K-12 teachers. (CMK)

Explains the process of creating a curriculum based on the National Science Education Standards (NSES). Introduces an activity where students experience flowers and their environments. Focuses on Content Standard C of the NSES. (YDS)

Oak Hill School served elementary students in the 10th district of Washington County, Tennessee, from 1886 to 1952. After extensive restoration and a move to Historic Jonesborough, the one-room school now functions as a living history museum. Fourth-grade students spend a day following the 1892 curriculum for grade 4. A teacher's resource and…

Presents suggestions for class activities that integrate community resources and local contexts into curriculum and instruction. Activities include field trips to a historic one-room schoolhouse, a local track meet, a beauty salon, and local manufacturing companies; explorations of local water supply systems and community history and sociology;…

Highlights some practical applications for art and river education to encourage teachers to create such programs. Describes the "Art and River" Program that consists of four half-day lessons at a river park. Discusses the importance of rivers and Native American beliefs about the land and rivers. Lists additional resources. (CMK)

A series of vignettes illustrates a variety of methods for implementing community-focused teaching and learning. Finding the curriculum in the community, going public with learning experiences, making the most of field trips, and participating in ongoing community events are strategies that promote integrated curriculum, involve community, and…

Recognizes that after-school programs for latchkey children offer an opportunity for music education by extending students' musical experiences. Explains that after school programs can include thematic units, independent time for exploring performance skills, field trips, group performances, or mini-concerts with live musicians. (CMK)

The death of a 17-year-old British girl on a youth expedition to Vietnam prompts questions about the ethics and role of expedition education and about accreditation and regulation of the adventure field. Should the agenda be controlled by a central corporation, government, or the field itself? Those in the field should present a united front on…

Describes the use of electronic field trips in a fourth grade classroom that used "Journeys to Wilderness Canyons", a four-part learning experience that meets national science standards. Discusses the video segments, the Web site, guidelines to evaluate instructional media, and team efforts. (LRW)