At Nevada Outdoor School, we are dedicated to fostering a love for nature and the great outdoors. One of our standout programs, the Young Naturalist Club, recently wrapped up its second session of the school year with an exciting lineup of activities and lessons. With 55 enthusiastic participants, this session was packed with engaging educational experiences, with a major highlight being our immersive Snow School!
Learning the Lifecycle of a Snowflake
Participants began their Snow School experience by exploring the lifecycle of a snowflake. Through interactive lessons, they gained a fundamental understanding of what a snowflake is, its unique characteristics, and the process through which it forms. This lesson also helped students recognize the vital role snow plays in winter weather patterns, global temperatures, and freshwater resources. To reinforce their learning, students created their own snowflakes based on the lesson material, bringing science to life in a creative way.
Journaling Winter’s Wonders
What’s winter without some frosty fun? Even when there’s no snow on the ground, our Young Naturalists got into the winter spirit through journaling exercises, bingo games, and activities focused on winter wildlife. This lesson encouraged students to reflect on the signs of winter, share their thoughts about the season, and engage in interactive games designed to highlight the wonders of wintertime.
The Science Behind the Aurora Borealis
One of the most captivating natural phenomena in the world is the Aurora Borealis—or Northern Lights. Our students explored the science behind these mesmerizing light displays, learning about the atmospheric and magnetic forces that create this spectacular event. This lesson sparked curiosity and amazement, inspiring a deeper appreciation for Earth’s natural wonders.
The Art of Melting
In addition to the hands-on snowflake activities and nature journaling, the Young Naturalist Club also had the opportunity to dive into the science of snow and ice with an engaging lesson on melting. Students explored what makes snow and ice melt, conducting experiments to investigate factors like salt, sugar, and sand. They discovered that salt melts ice faster than sugar or nothing at all, learning how materials can lower the freezing point of water. In another experiment, students explored the effects of sunlight on melting by comparing ice cubes placed on black versus white paper, observing how dark colors absorb more heat. This lesson not only sparked curiosity but also helped students better understand real-world applications of snow and ice, such as salt used on roads and the impact of sunlight in snowy regions.
Discovering the Magic of Pine Trees
In another engaging session, participants learned about the unique characteristics of pine trees, including the lifecycle of a pine cone. Through hands-on activities, students discovered what makes pine trees so special and how they contribute to forest ecosystems.
Gratitude to NV Energy
This incredible session of the Young Naturalist Club was made possible through the generous support of NV Energy. Their commitment to outdoor education has enabled us to provide enriching experiences that inspire young minds to explore and appreciate the natural world. Thank you, NV Energy, for helping us cultivate the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and environmental stewards!
Join the Adventure!
The Young Naturalist Club continues to offer exciting opportunities for children to connect with nature and expand their knowledge of the great outdoors. If your child is interested in joining, stay tuned for upcoming sessions filled with adventure, discovery, and hands-on learning!
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep exploring with Nevada Outdoor School!
