All of our lessons fall under the New Proposed Standards! Here is where they fit!
Physics “Track”
Students will learn more about Michigan International Speedway with a brief history, description, and interesting facts. Along with this, students will gain a first-hand experience with the banking of the track and why this is necessary for the race car drivers. They will learn the basic physics of the track. 5,6,7,8
Trail Walk
​Option 1:
Students will observe the native and invasive species that thrive in the Irish Hills. Students will engage in scientific observation techniques.  5,6,7,8
Option 2:
Students will take the trail with a survival twist. Guides will present plants and other dangers while also pointing out the many uses for the plants and other species found in the Irish Hills.  5,6,7,8
Option 3:
Students will go on an “I Spy” version of the walking trial. This will engage students and keep their eyes open to the surrounding nature. Students will be put in groups and play a game of who can find the next stop. 5,6,7,8
Option 4:
Students will use Dichotomous keys to go through the trail and identify the trees and plants that reside in the Irish Hills.  7,8
Microscopes 
Option 1:
Students will use increased modes of magnification to examine characteristics of a variety of different organisms from the most basic hand lens to dissecting scopes and compound microscopes. Students will also get to see exactly what their teacher sees as we incorporate our new video converter  5,6,7,8
Option 2:
​Students will review the parts and appropriate use of microscopes. Then students will learn how to prepare and view slides under microscopes. 7,8
Animals 
Option 1:
​Students will use their prior knowledge to explore the classifications of animals as well as key characteristics of species and how this helps them survive.   5,6,7,8
Option 2:
Students will have classification overview. Then learn about ecosystems, populations and relationships of some of our species 5,6,7,8
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Water Quality
During this exploration, students look to understand the concept of water quality, and the ways in which water quality effects our everyday lives. The lesson also hits key concepts such as water and air pollution, key elements and compounds that act as pollutants, and touches on elements of pH, acids and bases for older students.