Home Sweet Habitat
Every animal needs a habitat, but not all habitats are the same. Explore the diverse ecosystems of the VINS Nature Center and discover how animals make their homes in the forest, field, and river's edge. VINS educators guide students through an in-depth exploration of an animal's habitat and lead them through a first-hand habitat trek to search for food, water, shelter, and space. This lesson includes a moderate 45-minute round trip hike over uneven terrain.
- K-LS1-1
- 2-LS4-1
- 3-LS3-2
Your field trip includes a 45-60 minute guided program including an introduction to the topic of Habitats and ecosystems, an active outdoor game, in depth investigation and a chance for students to reflect upon what they learned. In addition to your guided lesson you will have the opportunity to experience a live bird presentation, visit our trails and exhibits, and enjoy lunch on our grounds.
The VINS Nature Center spans a variety of ecosystems and unique environments. Choose the environment or combination of areas for your students from our open meadow, forested trails, vernal pool and riverside areas.
Examples:
For K-2: Micro World- explore the VINS meadow and search for the tiny creatures that call it home. Net insects and view them up close. Investigate the rainbows of grasses, shrubs and wildflowers that provide food and shelter for the animals living near by.
For 3-5: Field and Forest- investigate the differences between the field and forest habitat. Explore both environments at VINS, collect data and observations and compare the sorts of animals that live in these very different worlds.
Home Sweet Habitat is suitable for students in grades K-3. Work with our educators to specify the right combination of in depth analysis and comparisons for your learners.
All VINS educators have extensive experience in environmental education, the natural sciences and science instruction. Every instructor works with a certified teacher in NH and VT to ensure their content and methods align with the Next Generation Science Standards and the best practices for outdoor education. All instructors are First Aid and CPR certified.
Enhancing Classroom Curriculum with On-Site, Place-Based Education
Explore the natural world with hands-on lessons aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.