4th Grade Experiential Outdoor Science: Earthkeepers

Earthkeepers is a comprehensive environmental science program geared to 4th graders. The on-site portion of the program lasts three full days at the Earthkeepers Training Center, in T.R.E.E.’s Outdoor Classroom in Luling, LA. The Earthkeepers staff and the classroom teacher combine efforts to provide a dynamic, effective learning experience. The teacher will continue this program back at school which will encourage the students to continue to apply their learning beyond the classroom. The Earthkeepers program helps young people understand the life support systems of the planet while developing a personal relationship with the Earth and its life. The program deals with four basic ecological concepts – the flow of energy, the cycling of materials, the interrelating of life, and the changing of forms. Participants also experience the richness of the earth through first-hand contact with the natural world. Another important component of the program is asking the participants to examine their personal lifestyle, committing themselves to individual changes that will reduce impact upon the systems of life. This commitment is greatly magnified by helping others back at school to know and to care about the earth, the final component of the program.