CURRICULUM
The Outdoor Education program prides itself on both the diversity and quality of its curriculum. Programs are offered in several primary theme areas, such as group building, ecology concepts, observations in nature, Michigan history and outdoor pursuits.
In GroupBuilding activities, students learn to work together, communicate, and function as a team. Challenges are presented to help develop skills in cooperation, trust, planning, goal-setting and decision-making. GroupBuilding activities include High Ropes, Challenge Wall, Sherwood Forest, The Beast, Teams Course, Trust Continuum, The Beam and Survival Orienteering.
With Ecology Concepts, the students learn about the ecology of the natural world and how people affect the natural environment. The activities stress an understanding of earth concepts instead of facts. Ecology Concepts activities include Life Ledger, Deadly Links, Connection Inspection, Photosynthesis Relay, Build a Better Beast, Recycle Relay, Animals in the Woods, Community Meeting and Micro-parks.
Observations in Nature activities seek to provide students with a greater appreciation of the natural world around them. Through these activities, students have the opportunity to learn more about Michigan’s native flora and fauna and the interactions among them. Observations in Nature activities include Pond Exploration, Pond Lab, Birds, Mammals, Snakes, Sound Off, Senses Hike and Scent Tracking, as well as off-site trips to the MSU-Kellogg Dairy Farm, the Maple Valley Pine Forest and the Pierce-Cedar Creek Institute.
Students have a unique opportunity to learn about Michigan History with a visit to the Pioneer Cabin. Clear Lake Camp has recreated a pioneer homestead typical to the area during the early days of Michigan statehood. At the homestead, students will have the opportunity to use pioneer tools, make pioneer crafts or simply tour the authentic cabin, smokehouse and root cellar.
Outdoor Pursuits activities teach students skills to help enjoy themselves in the outdoors. These activities expose students to experiences that they will hopefully continue on their own or with their families. Outdoor Pursuits activities include Fire Building, Cookout, Nature Crafts, Canoeing, Orienteering, Cross-country Skiing, Ice Hike and Ice Fishing.
The Outdoor Education program is always striving to better meet the needs of individual class groups. In addition to the regular curriculum, Special Interest activities may be available.
If you would like a more detailed description of individual activities, be sure to check out the Class Abstracts.
Contact Jessica McCrumb, the Supervising Instructor/Counselor, for more information, to plan your visit or to schedule a tour.
