2022- 2023 Water, Wildlife, and Wilderness Field Studies (Grades 3- 5)

Polk' Nature Discovery Center Field Studies Program connects children with science and the outdoors.  The program, titled "Water, Wildlife, and Wilderness" supports the Florida "interdependence unit" education standards for grades 3 - 5.  Students will participate in field experiences, such as dip netting and invasive plant removal, that reinforce what they have or will learn in the classroom. Students will gain proficiency in making observations, taking measurements, and accurately recording both. Being outdoors is a fascinating experience!

Choose between three programs: Life Cycles and the Flow of Energy, Seasonal Changes in Florida Plants and Animals and Impacts on the Environment, and Animal and Plant Characteristics.

 Life Cycles and the Flow of Energy Program

(water levels in the swamp, pictured above, vary by seasonal rain fall)

Seasonal Changes in Florida Plants and Animals and Impact on the Environment Program

(students observing aquatic wildlife after dip netting in a freshwater marsh)

Animal and Plant Characteristics Program 

(student participants will research and collect data on gopher tortoise burrows and their habitats)

Field Studies Program Mission Statement: The 3-5th grade Field Study Program at Polk's Nature Discovery Center will provide hands-on learning experiences in an outdoor setting that engage students in investigating the value of Polk County's natural resources.  Through this exploration students will discover the interconnection between water, wildlife and wilderness; understand their impact on the environment; and foster a sense of personal stewardship towards the environment.

If busing is needed: Students, teachers and chaperones will be transported by their school's normal bus transportation from their school to the Center, and back to school. A maximum bus load is 60 TOTAL (50 students max, along with teachers).  If you are providing your own groups transportation, please still only allow a maximum bus load of 60 TOTAL (50 students max, along with teachers).

A Pre and Post Test must be completed, and class averages must be sent to Polk's Nature Discovery Center staff for FREE bus transportation to occur.  If the data is not received, the school WILL be billed for busing costs.

FAQs

What can/can't I bring to the event?

School/Teacher MUST Bring: Permission slip forms with Emergency Contact Information; any medicines given by the school nurse; first aid kit; cold, pre-packaged lunches for each student participant, refillable water bottle for each student participant.

Students MUST WEAR close-toed shoes

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Eric Eversole

Natural Resources Educator

[email protected]

863-668-4673 ext. 204

Are there grade restrictions and a student class maximum to enter the event?

YES: The Field Studies Program is only available for students in grades 3, 4, or 5 and a maximum of 50 students can participate per visit.

FREE PROGRAM MADE POSSIBLE BY:

Host or Publisher Polk's Nature Discovery Center