Naturally Curious Jane Journal
Activity - Outdoors
GradesK, 1, 2, 3Science
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Roots and Shoots
What it is
- This observation journal and accompanying slides invite students to explore the natural world the way Jane Goodall did.
- Through activities such as drawing what they see, making a leaf rubbing, counting living things in one square foot, listening quietly to nature sounds, and playing Nature Walk Bingo, students practice observation and data-collection skills and reflect on their connection to nature.
Teaching tips
Classroom Implementation:
- Almost all activities must be done outside, so determine a biodiverse location near you and consider doing 1-2 activities per day for a week, or assign sections for homework over the weekend to involve families.
- Engage students in a discussion about why recording observations is important to science.
- Use the listening and coloring activities as relaxing breaks for students to connect with their senses.
Extensions:
- Help student teams research the biography of Dr. Jane Goodall or other key environmental figures and make poster presentations.
- Engage in a "drawing quotes" activity, where students choose a quote and draw a related picture, using some of Dr. Jane Goodall's famous quotes.
Related Resources:
- Use these story time videos by Dr. Jane Goodall to learn more about nature with kid-friendly themes and illustrations.
- Help students make their own nature journals with this guide to continue observing and recording nature.
From the scientist review
This resource is a collection of worksheets and activities available in a PDF booklet and a PowerPoint presentation. The activities teach students about Jane Goodall and her contributions to science while allowing them to practice basic scientific skills, such as data collection and observation. In addition, students will begin to understand the importance of nature and have the opportunity to appreciate and learn about the nature around them. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
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