First Nature Night Reflection

Well that was fun wasn't it! Just over half of the Environmental Studies class participated in their first Nature Night ever. Although McKenzie Barry has been organizing the Nature Nights for a few years now, the 12 Environmental Studies students who participated on Thursday, September 23, found out first hand how exciting these events can be.

I would like to say a very public THANK YOU to the Lower Platte South NRD for allowing high school students to participate in such a worth while event.


So finally here's the assignment:

This is your moment to reflect on your experience at the Hartley Elementary Nature Night. You will get no other direction other than to write about the evening and cover at least TWO paragraphs. Write more if you would like as this reflection is about you and your experience. The photos are for your inspiration.

Platte River State Park Trip Reflection

Here's your opportunity to reflect on the day trip to the Platte River State Park. Please write THREE paragraphs (5-6 sentences each) about your experience at the Park. Remember that the trip was possible due to a grant from the Lower Platte South Natural Resource District. Also, special thanks to the Nebraska Game and Parks Boating Law Administrator Herb Angell.

Mr. Bittle

Dose Response Experiment (LD50) and Nature Night Preparation

So far you have worked with some interesting chemicals completing a traditional Environmental Inquiry using Duckweed (Lemna) for a Bioassay. Not only have you performed a standard lab, you have also been preparing a non-traditional method of learning Environmental Studies by creating an educational presentation for elementary students and their families.

Your response in today's blog (September 20th) will cover the said two topics. First, you will reflect on the Duckweed Bioassay, so answer the following questions: What good will knowing the LD50 of a specific chemical on a small aquatic plant called Duckweed? How effective or valid is this type of experiment in understanding the role humans have in the environment? Explain to the general public how to interpret the results of your experiment.

Second you will reflect on your progression of creating an educational presentation for Hartley and Elliot Elementary Schools. Answer the following questions: What are YOUR expectations for the Nature Night you will participate in? Why is it important to engage children in the natural world? Predict the impact your presentation will have on the children who visit your booth. Explain to a loved one or another adult who is close to you, the local and global importance of something as simple as a Nature Night presentation.

Be exact and honest with your explanations. I expect nothing less.

Sincerely,
Mr. Bittle