It’s been a wonderful first few weeks in Lower School Science! It has been lovely to be with the students again, both familiar faces and new.
One of the books I read over the summer was The Nature Principle by Richard Louv. This is a follow up book to Last Child in the Woods. The Nature Principle is a compelling book about the importance of nature in everyone’s lives – both young and old. Inspired by the book, I’ve recommitted myself to getting students outside during Science class whenever possible. By using a few strategically placed benches and a heavy-duty plastic storage tub for supplies, I’ve set up an “outside classroom” behind Ryan Hall. As of this writing, every science class I have taught so far this year has been outside. And so far, the results have been fascinating. I’ll have to collect some data on this over the course of this year to back up what I think I’m seeing, but in general students appear calmer and more centered outside. I feel as though I spend less time on “classroom management” (i.e. reminding students to raise their hands, stay on task, etc) when we are outside. There’s just something about being outdoors – a gentle breeze on one’s face, the natural light – that acts as a small pressure relief, like someone letting a little air out of a tire.
It hasn’t been entirely easy. Students have had to learn to deal with the small bugs that fly around their faces, wet feet from dewy grass, and dirt that gets on new back-to-school clothes. Some students really seem to love being outdoors, others aren’t so sure. This is an experiment for all of us.
The cold weather will soon drive us back indoors. Even as it gets colder, I’m going to try to start each class outside for the first 5 minutes so that students can engage in some nature journaling. Please send your child to school with layers, hats, and gloves on the days he or she has science. Feet do get wet with dew, an old pair of sneakers for your child to wear might not be a bad idea.
Thank you and see you at Back to School Night!
Jenney
