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Units of Study / Activities
Units of Study
Wildlife
Students will be given the opportunity to explore wildlife in a
"hands-on" environment as they observe, study, and handle reptiles,
Madagascan Hissing cockroaches, and various other animals. Many
misconceptions will be dispelled about these beneficial and often
misunderstood animals. While investigating animal pelts, skulls, tracks,
and scat reproductions, students will be introduced to carnivores,
herbivores, and omnivores.
Stream Analysis
By observation, sampling, and the use of test kits, students will become
familiar with stream characteristics while exploring a small stream
ecosystem. Students will collect "critters" and conduct a
macro-invertebrate count. Tests will be conducted to
determine abiotic factors such as dissolved oxygen, nitrates, pH, and water
temperature. Food chains will be discussed. This unit may include
investigations and comparisons between a stream, spring, and lake
ecosystem which are all located on site.
Forest Ecology
By identifying characteristics such as leaves, flowers, fruit, and bark,
students will be introduced to the common tree species found within a
temperate deciduous forest. Tree measuring techniques will be addressed
during this EXPLORATION SESSION. Students will be taught to use an
identification "tree key". Herbacious, shrub, and canopy layers will be
identified. Uses and misuses of the forest, wild edibles, and endangered
species will be discussed. Participants will gain an appreciation for
Tennessee's biodiversity.
Character traits emphasized throughout this EXPLORATION SESSION will
include respect, responsibility, caring, and citizenship.
Orienteering
Students will be introduced to the concept of maps and orienteering with
a compass. Map terminology will be taught. While "Putting Fred in the
Red Shed" and finding "hidden treasures", students will learn compass
skills. In addition, participants will explore simple geometric figures
with a compass. Learning to use a compass builds self-reliance and
self-confidence.
Lake Exploration/Canoeing
Water and canoe safety will be introduced. Students will learn the six
parts of a canoe, five parts of a paddle, and ten canoe safety rules.
Instruction will be given on proper methods of boarding, paddling, and
disembarking a canoe. Student pairs will discover the importance of
communication and teamwork while working toward a common goal. All
participants will wear personal floatation devices. Paddle boats and
kayaks are also available.
Team-Building Initiative Course
During this group activity, students will learn to trust themselves and
their own abilities, as well as to trust others. Self-confidence,
self-reliance, resilience, and group interaction skills will be
developed while participating in low rope/ recreational challenges. This
EXPLORATION SESSION encourages cooperation, communication, problem
solving, and teamwork in a physically safe environment.
Activities
Group and
Character Building
A variety of innovative hands-on activities that encourage teamwork,
creative problem solving, communication, character development, decision
making and trust.
Woodworking
Students will learn about the safe operation of woodworking equipment as
they cut, sand, and paint a wooden turtle in our Woodworking Shop. There
will be a small additional charge per student for supplies.
Crafts (Recycling)
While creating Clyde The Turtle, our camp mascot, students will learn
about how they can "Save Our Planet" by using the 3-R's (Reduce, Reuse,
and Recycle). Each student will need to bring an empty two-liter plastic
bottle for this activity.
Leather Crafts
Participants will be introduced to various leather-working tools as they
design and decorate a leather project. The following items can be made
for a small additional charge: coin purse, key chains, dog collars, and
belts.
Archery
A brief history of the bow and arrow will be taught. Students will learn
the parts of the bow and arrow. The importance of wearing an arm guard
and how it should be worn will be emphasized. Before students have an
opportunity to participate in archery, safety rules and proper methods
for shooting a bow and arrow will be discussed.
Riflery
Students will be taught the parts of a rifle, shooting safety rules, and
range commands. Firing at targets will be done from a prone position.
The rifles (.22 Bolt Action Rifles) are locked and chained into position
limiting the direction and area in which they can be fired.
Muzzle Loading
A brief history of the musket and how it was used during pioneer days
will be addressed. Students will learn the parts of a musket and
understand how it works. Opportunities will be given for participants to
load and fire a musket.
Swimming
During the month of May, schedule options offered will include swimming.
Students will be given an opportunity to swim. Certified life guards
will be on duty at the pool. Alternate recreational activities are
available for non-swimmers.
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