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The main aims of this programme are:
1. to put students in touch with their own senses e.g. smelling aromatic plants, listening to bird calls;
2. to encourage students to be more observant and make deductions about what they notice around them; and
3. to inspire students so that they are continuously aware of their senses and what is taking place in their immediate environment, wherever they may live.
The accompanying teachers can also use the visit as an opportunity to assess their students' responses and behaviour. The approach to the programme development has been cross-curricular so that all students are using different skills and are involved in a variety of activities during the three-hour visit. This trail is an exciting development in Delta Park that will provide many thousands of students and their teachers with a stimulating environmental education experience.
Typical activity sheet:
With a partner - look and find...
- Something young
- Something old
- Something dead
- Something growing
- Something decaying
- Something that smells good
- Something that feels soft
- Something affected by people
- Something affected by insects
- Something abiotic (non-living)
Example of an assessment activity:
Self-evaluation by students through specific activities are included in the educational programme e.g. Walk Sheet where the student describes what he/she learnt/felt during the walk.
- During our walk in Delta Park/Melville Koppies, I was surprised to see...
- I heard...
- I felt (emotional response - difference between this 'felt' and tactile feeling to be explained by educator)...
- I learnt more about...
- I still want to know...
- Name:...