CCFPD offers a variety of programming topics focused on the disciplinary core ideas and cross-cutting concepts in the Next Generation Science Standards (IL. Standards for Science). They are coupled with active learning experiences modeling a number of science and engineering practices. Develop, Plan and Analyze with us! Please contact Stacey Clementz, sclementz@ccfpd.org, to discuss how to adapt our programming to fit your needs.
Students will explore three ecosystems of Illinois: forest, prairie and wetland. Together we will learn some of the natural history of these ecosystems, how humans have impacted them, and what plant and animal species are thriving in these special habitats today. Year-Round Grades 6-12 Program Length: 1.5-2 hours Common Core: SL1, SL3
Mammal Morphology
We will explore the body structures of Illinois mammals, the relationship between the form and function, and how adaptations aid survival through the use of skulls, pelts and bones. Year-Round Grades 6-12 Program Length: 1-1.5 hours Common Core: SL1, SL3
If it is too difficult to get a class to us, we will bring the class to you! For each program, a Forest Preserve District educator visits your room to help add a new twist to your existing curriculum unit with hands-on activities and visuals.
In this program, students will learn how to identify trees by their features. Together we will discover how to use a dichotomous key and take a hike to identify some of Illinois' most common tree species. April-October Grades 6-12 Program Length: 1-1.5 hours Common Core: SL1, SL3
Primary sources are not just documents! Students learn to analyze the who, what, where, and why of historical artifacts by handling objects from the education collection of the Museum of the Grand Prairie. Artifacts can be chosen to suit the period you are studying from the Revolutionary War to the 1950s.
Grades 6-12 Program Length 1-2 hours Common Core: SL 1, 2, 3, 4