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This is a compilation of schoolyard investigations and other activities that were used successfully with teachers in SYE Institutes. These are presented as reproducible write-ups for leaders to hand-out directly to teachers, as appropriate. While not designed with this in mind, many teachers used these activities, either modified or as is, with their students. Where possible, we've included sample results of the inquiry, comments from leaders and/or teachers who did the activity, suggested readings - relevant ecology research papers and review articles - for each inquiry, and blank data sheets. However, this segment of the Handbook is still under construction, so many of the descriptions are not complete. We look forward to hearing more about each activity from YOU! and will update these write-ups accordingly.
Included are a number of "inquiry idea starters" for engaging teachers in guided or open inquiry, and a collection of other activities for reflecting on teaching and learning, and for assessing teacher attainment of science process and content goals. Other reproducible handouts, such as evaluation forms and checklists, are included in Appendix 2.
Inquiry Idea Starters:
- Color Bugs: SYEFEST project to discover what colors different kinds of insects are attracted to and why.
- Dandelion Determinations: Estimate the number of dandelions in a schoolyard lawn.
- Tree Transects: Compare how the tree species vary from the edge to the interior of a forest by sampling tree saplings and adults along a transect.
- Bagged Branches: In this study you will have a chance to investigate first hand the process of transpiration, or the loss of water from plants via evaporation.
- Ant Cafeteria: What foods do ants prefer and why?
- School Traffic: Discover the effects of human traffic on the soil communities in your schoolyard.
- Nature Preserves: This exercise introduces students to the measurement of biological diversity.
- Beat Sampling: Compare how the insect species vary from the edge to the interior of a forest by beat sampling tree saplings along a transect.
- Quadrats: This field study is designed to build confidence in conducting the initial parts of the inquiry process in schoolyard ecosystems.
- Tree Key: Learn how to make your own tree key.
- Giving Up Density: Ask questions about how giving up density changes in different habitats.
- Seed Preferences: This study lets you explore some of the fascinating adaptations small seed eaters have for finding, choosing, and handling seeds in the schoolyard.
- Telltale Bait Stations: Learn to identify species that live in your area by tracking their visits to baits you can set up.
- Litter Bags: Learn about decomposition and the reasons behind it.
- Wings on Seeds: Discover how and why seeds are transported from one location to another.
Other Activities:
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