Reptiles and amphibians are defined by certain characteristics that set them apart from each other. Through up-close encounters with several live animals, we will teach participants about the characteristics, habitats, life cycles, and adaptations of various species of reptiles and amphibians throughout CT. Then, we’ll discuss what these two groups of “herps” have in common.
NGSS: (3)-LS1.B; (4)-LS1.A; (MS)-LS1.B; CC: Patterns; Structure & Function
Take a leisurely hike through the woods and get to know our local trees better, including how they function and why they are important to us, and to other animals. We’ll do some interactive activities to reinforce these concepts. For the appropriate ages, we’ll also teach you some simple identification tricks for trees such as sugar maple, white pine, red oak, yellow birch, and more. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes and layers. In-person and onsite only.
NGSS: (K)-LS1.C; (1)-LS1.A; (2)-LS2.A; (2)-LS4.D; (3)-LS1.B; (4)-LS1.A; (5)-LS1.C; (MS)-LS1.B; (MS)-LS2.C; SEP: Carrying Out Investigations; CC: Scale, Proportion, & Quality; Structure & Function
CT ELDS: Strand A Science – 60.3; Strand C Science – 48.5, 60.7
You don’t need to travel any further than your local natural area or even your backyard to find some amazing biodiversity. Did you know we have over 20,000 animal species in CT? Join us as White Memorial guides you through the menageries of animals we have right here in our state, from marvelous mammals to resplendent reptiles to beautiful birds. The highlight is getting to meet a few live CT creatures up close!
NGSS: (1)-LS1.A; (2)-LS4.D; (4)-LS1.A; SEP: Constructing Explanations; CC: Structure & Function
CT ELDS: Strand C Science – 48.5, 60.7
Plants are simply amazing organisms, not to mention necessary for our survival! After a discussion on the importance of plants, as well as an activity covering photosynthesis, we will go on a short walk around the Museum looking for notable examples of local plants. In-person and onsite only.
NGSS: (4,5, MS, HS)-LS1.C; (MS)-PS3.D; SEP: Using Models; Engaging in Argument from Evidence; CC: Energy & Matter; Structure & Function
Let us expose your group to the wonders of the outdoors on a guided nature discovery hike. We’ll identify and provide fun facts about several plants and animals, and explain their roles in the ecosystem. This program works well for all age levels and ranges! Hikes can either be conducted on White Memorial property or on a trail at your location (a scouting charge may be added for offsite programs).
NGSS: (K)-LS1.C; (K)-ESS3.A; (1)-LS1.A; (2)-LS4.D; (3)-LS4.C; (4)-LS1.A; (5)-LS2.A; (MS)-LS2.A,B,C; (HS)-LS2.A,C; (HS)-LS4.C; SEP: Carrying Out Investigations; CC: Systems; Structure & Function; Stability & Change
CT ELDS: Strand A Science – 48.1, 60.2; Strand C Science – 48.5, 48.7, 60.8, 60.9
Just who-who-whoo are those big, beautiful birds of prey you see perched atop fenceposts by day or hear calling outside your window by night? This digital presentation by Education Director Carrie Szwed covers the hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons that call northwest CT home. You’ll even get to meet one of our raptors up close and personal!
NGSS: (1)-LS1.A,D; (2)-LS4.D; (4)-LS1.A,D; CC: Patterns; Structure & Function
CT ELDS: Strand C Science – 48.5, 60.7
Have you ever seen a dragonfly nymph or a water scorpion? Find out what aquatic macroinvertebrates live in a pond during a hands-on catch-and-release discovery session at Ongley Pond. Various themes, such as metamorphosis, predator-prey relationships, and adaptations, can be explored depending on the group’s needs. Don’t wear your brand new shows and plan to get your hands dirty! Onsite and in-person only.
NGSS: (K)-LS1.C; (K)-ESS3.A; (1)-LS1.A; (2)-LS4.D; (3)-LS1.B; (4)-LS1.A; (5)-LS2.A; (MS)-LS2.A,B,C; (HS)-LS2.C; SEP: Carrying Out Investigations; Analyzing & Interpreting Data (HS only); Using Mathematics & Computational Thinking (HS only); CC: Structure & Function; Stability & Change (MS & HS only)
What makes something a living thing? Why is a rock not a living thing? To help young children understand what is living and nonliving in nature, we will use natural props, animal mounts, and even a couple of LIVE animals. Of course, being that we are animals, we’ll also discuss what makes US alive!
NGSS: (K)-LS1.C; (1)-LS1.B,D; CC: Patterns
CT ELDS: Strand C Science – 36.5, 48.5, 60.7
White Memorial’s Nature Museum provides a glimpse into the natural diversity found throughout the Foundation’s 4,000-acre wildlife sanctuary. All education programs booked at White Memorial include admission to the Nature Museum for a self-guided tour. However, if you would like a guided tour of the museum, in which our exhibits will be interpreted by a staff person, please sign up for this program. Your group will get to delve further into the museum experience through engaging discussions and activities led by the tour guide. Onsite only.
NGSS: (2)-LS4.D; (3)-LS2.C; (3)-LS4.D; (MS)-LS2.A,C; (MS)-LS4.D; (HS)-PS3.D; (HS)-LS2.C; (HS)-LS4.C,D; (HS)-ESS3.A,C; SEP: Using Models; Carrying Out Investigations; CC: Scale, Proportion, and Quantity; System Models; Stability & Change
What makes an insect an insect and why are they so important? Using artistry and live invertebrates, this program will teach young students what distinguishes and insect and why these cool and crawly critters are an integral part of any ecosystem. Onsite or virtual only.
NGSS: (1)-LS1.A; SEP: Engaging in Argument from Evidence; CC: Patterns
CT ELDS: Strand C Science: 48.5, 60.7