tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14922682635120361322023-11-16T06:49:02.992-08:00Outdoor Amy's Field NotesOutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.comBlogger7125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1492268263512036132.post-79450145861899396512021-06-08T19:59:00.002-07:002021-06-08T20:14:11.644-07:00NISD GT/OLC Book Study: Part 1 Reflection, Last Child in the Woods<p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The role of the outdoors in my childhood….</span></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><o:p> </o:p>“Dad, how did the outdoors influence your childhood?” I pose
this question to him as we drive SH 24 towards Paris. My dad always tells
stories when we drive these roads, and I knew the conversation would stimulate
lots of memories and bring a smile to his face, and to mine. Through that, I would be able
to answer the question myself that was posing such a challenge for me to answer.
I’m “Outdoor Amy” and should be able to give a ton of examples, right? WRONG. But
I knew seeing rural Northeast Texas and hearing Dad’s story would jog my memory
and connect me to an answer.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>Dad immediately shares a few stories of playing outdoors. He
shares two new ones I hadn’t heard before. One about him and his friends riding
their horses through the Bottom (Sulphur River bottom), across some land their
families had leased and the experience along with that. It involved removing a gate,
being gone all day, and when they got home, their Momma was soooo mad. We she
found out they had gone all the way to Nelta, she was really mad! Dad also
chuckled that this time, his mom had received a phone call from the neighbor
that he saw some boys on horseback across (so and so’s) property. “That was
when we got the phone. Before we had the phone, we rarely had neighbors tattling
on us.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>Can you imagine? Exploring the outdoors. On horseback. With
no phone? Or landline? How amazing is that? And scary in the context (or perceived pressures) we have
today? <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>Let’s pause for a moment. This is the second time I have
read this book. The first was in 2015 at the beginning of my OLC Coordinator journey.
It prompted so much change and educational theory in how I would make choices
on outdoor experiences for students. This book was timely to me six years ago,
but relevant to my learning and leadership now. I can connect more with the
research and ideas presented now, than I could have six years ago. (Experiences
truly are momentum for learning and change.)<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>You might wonder why this has anything to do with the prompt,
or again, why so hard to answer? Well, I think because of the active, adult
experiences in the “children in nature” movement I have been involved with the
past six years, makes the prompt harder for me to connect to my own personal <i>childhood</i>
experiences. I have a multitude of “ecstatic” moments in nature as an adult that far outshine those childhood memories alluding me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I’ll write on that later. 😊<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>My Dad has just finishing sharing a story about trying to
trap racoons stealing feed in the barn. I can’t help but think about all the
stories in the book parallel to my dad’s. And analyzing those experience for
the academic, problem solving, risk taking and SEL enriched learning that
happened with this racoon problem, along with all the stories he has shared. (He
has a storybook amount of stories and I cannot even write a short essay!) <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>I share my dilemma with my dad. That I feel like I didn’t have many experiences outdoor as a kid…..he
about choked on his coffee. “Riding bikes, climbing the few trees we ever had,
just playing outside…you and your sisters played outside ALL the time!.” He
said I <i>loved </i>bugs so much when I was a little girl, that they bought me a net,
and a book called “Critters.” He said I was constantly trying to catch bugs and
learn about them, and even brought in a wasp one time caught in my net. My dad mimicked how he remembered me holding the net to bring it inside to show my mom, “your
Mom didn’t like that <i>at all.</i>” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">He then asked, “what’s the <i>first </i>memory that comes to mind
with being outdoors.”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Rocks. Digging for rocks. Hunting for rocks. Riding my bike
trying to carry rocks. Rocks!<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>As a Kindergartener I wanted to be a paleontologist. My mom was
constantly encouraging me to go outside and dig. So I did a lot of that. I was
determined to discover a new fossil. Occasionally the neighborhood kids would
join in, but not fervently digging alongside me. Our house was right next to
the drainage ditch, and we would have water sometimes after a flood, expose new
things. One time, it exposed a <i>giant </i>rock. It seemed huge to me as a Kindergartener, but thinking
about it now, it was probably the size of a kid’s lunchbox. One of the neighborhood
kids, Robert Weaver, would play with me often, and occasionally dig with me. He
helped me discover this <i>huge </i>rock, and carry it to my backyard. Well the next day,
my rock was gone! I just knew that Robert Weaver took my rock! Who else would
care?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>So, I got on my bike and rode down the street (four houses)
and decided to get <i>my </i>rock back. I jumped the fence and found it back there. As
I heaved it into my arms, I look up and notice something. In the kitchen
window, a man was staring across at me as he slowly raised his coffee mug to
his mouth, with a look of, “what is going on here?” And in my panic state of
being caught in Robert Weaver’s backyard, by his dad, without permission, I
dropped MY rock and bolted. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>My Dad chuckled and said sounds like I found a memory. We of
course analyzed it further and discussed how even though his outdoor experiences
really were connected to nature and wild things, mine were connected with
playing outdoors. Recalling many memories at that moment, many of them involved roaming the neighborhood streets in the rural towns we grew
up, played at the park, rode bikes, played basketball and just really, played
with our friends outside, raised lambs and hogs, had outdoor pets, and so much more. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span> </span>After our drive I thought about that. I was hung up on the “nature”
aspect of the outdoors, and not just the <u>space </u>of the outdoors. I have so many
memories with my sisters, cousin Stephanie, friends, and even frenemies,
outdoors. Through the lens of “play” I was able to connect more and more of my
childhood to that happening outside. This just goes to show how opportunities to any outdoor space can shift, cultivate and foster learning in a multitude of capacities, and as teacher, parents and community members, how can we provide that safely for our kids?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">And some day, you should ask me about the “bread” story….</span></p>OutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1492268263512036132.post-37779423498422453062018-02-16T14:48:00.000-08:002018-02-16T14:48:13.601-08:00UpdateTaking time to blog takes time...and I have been bad about it!<br />
<br />
This week I caught up on two student blogs about a topic I love. Can you guess it? 😉 <i>ANIMALS</i><br />
So reading about their topics, cats and elephants, is super exciting. I loved reading about animals, but truly loved seeing students research and talk about topics they love! There are no doubts I will be a domestic cat and pachyderm expert by the end of the semester.<br />
<br />
Their posts made me reflect on my own posts (and lack of). My original thought on starting this was to document my OLC field experiences as "OutdoorAmy" with our NISD students and teachers. Maybe this will be simple enough to get me in the groove to blog, and maybe along the way, inspire a few to be environmental stewards and lifelong learners.<br />
<br />
SOOOOO what happened this week at the OLC?<br />
<br />
We have had a quiet semester so far. Many campuses choose not to come to the OLC in February due to weather and cold temperatures. It has been quiet. On Wednesday, we had our first group since December!<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Animal sightings (and smelling)?</b> ✅ Birds, deer and the most exciting, decomposing animals. YUP! Students spotted a raccoon carcass near our pond and then an armadillo carcass about 5 feet from a main trail.<i> </i><i>(Please note teachers and students are told during PreVisits NOT to ever approach live animals or to touch animals - dead or alive.) </i></li>
</ul>
What's so cool about that? Ask any of the Clara Love 4th graders and they can tell you! "you can see it's gnarly teeth and how it was snarling at the predator before it attacked!" or "I never knew an animal smelled disgusting when it was dead." or "It's teeth told me what type of food it ate." or "due to it's matted hair, we know it has been a while." <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These comments stemmed some VERY interesting theories on how each animal died, decomposition and even the why of not touching dead animals. And them explaining and justifying, some using scientific language, there theories is entertaining. :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b>Wildlife scat</b>? ✅ Did you know you might not ever see an animal when you come to the OLC, but there are no doubts you will see evidence of them through their scat and tracks? I cannot tell you how many conversations I have had on animal scat. The theories of what animals it is, or what it ate. Tall-tales are made out of moments like this. ;)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Academically what does coming across wildlife scat provide for our students? Students are able to take evidence they have and develop theories on what animal it came from. They can collect data through measurements, environmental observations and prior knowledge of Texas species to deduct an idea on what creature it is. Greatness is when two students have opposing theories and debate using the tools and field guide (reading for information ❤) they have to prove the other wrong. It is a great moment seeing students respect each other while communicating differences. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some students get so animated about their scat findings, that they continue to ask questions and keenly observe the trail to find more and more! There is a whole art to tracking animals, and two of those ways are through scat and tracks. This may be a great PBL to solve the mystery of if we have a bobcat or not. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lots of questions about movement in water, nests in trees and rocks. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And that's it! We only had one campus visit this week, but I assure you they are coming more frequently starting next week! I wonder if our visiting 4th graders and Kindergartners will have such interesting sightings! What else will they observe? What will they connect with? And what will they want to share about when they get home?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Take time to get outside this weekend. Sure it will rain, but we need it. Take a moment to enjoy the cold shock of rain on your skin, the way it smells and how it effects our environment. You will be surprised what you notice and with that, the type of conversations you can have with your students.</div>
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<br /></div>
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💚</div>
<div>
OutdoorAmy</div>
<br /></div>
OutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1492268263512036132.post-12597990199271644412017-10-09T10:06:00.002-07:002017-10-09T11:36:36.499-07:00BOO! Animals that Scare Us! <h2>
</h2>
<h3 style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>October is here with </b><b><span style="color: orange;">Halloween and
many other cultural celebrations</span></b><b> to bring us closer to
Fall and cooler weather. (and hopefully spending more time outdoors!)<br /><o:p></o:p></b><b><span style="color: orange;">Halloween also brings out some traditional animals we tend to
decorate (or dress as) to be "creepy and spooky."</span></b></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Ideas on what those animals are?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">You bet! <b>SPIDERS</b>......<b>BATS</b>......<b>WOLVES</b>.....some
may say Owls, rats and black cats. What comes to mind when you see these
animals? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Since your students will be seeing these decorated at school, home
and any retail store, let's talk some facts about these amazing creatures!</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;"><b>BATS</b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">What do you think about
when you hear a bat or see a bat?</span><span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">I remember
my first bat experience – and it was not in person. And it was probably what
the stereotypical reaction to bats is – negative and creepy. My opinion of
bats, even at a young age, was based on myths reflected in TV shows, movies and
books. Why would I think they are creepy? Well, they come out at night, they
are associated with vampires and they live in caves. As a 6 year old and
growing up, I would define that as creepy. In retrospect, it is more along the
lines as the misunderstanding of a flying mammal. (another oddity to add to the
“creepy” list, wouldn’t you say?)</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXdFvH5ar8l0TyNbVnfBqEY2eseuM11Yi8FnCekZYUibrHYFasfnWiqmy9LQ4Gp1jcfWHqWx7Qsi-90rmU22b6DjAUr2HlnM8ZTgKnKfgQ8-KkYfO3PLLWVIXTjXxGxkLxwbQ8yAMatct/s1600/Bats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Zoobooks Bats cover of magazine" border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXdFvH5ar8l0TyNbVnfBqEY2eseuM11Yi8FnCekZYUibrHYFasfnWiqmy9LQ4Gp1jcfWHqWx7Qsi-90rmU22b6DjAUr2HlnM8ZTgKnKfgQ8-KkYfO3PLLWVIXTjXxGxkLxwbQ8yAMatct/s1600/Bats.jpg" title="Zoobooks Bats" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As I got older, I was still reluctant to read
about bats or watch anything involving them. THEY WERE CREEPY!! However, my
curious animal lover side got the best of me when my monthly edition of <i>Zoobooks</i> came in with the title: BATS. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Let me tell
you. I loved my monthly <i>Zoobook</i>s! They
always fed my curiosity, my thirst for wildlife facts and even little tips
towards conservation – and NEVER disappointed me. So of course I was going to
read it despite the subject. My <i>Zoobooks</i>
gave me accurate information about bats – anatomy, habitats, and food sources
for different species, described how echolocation worked and even myths. That’s
right, it took time to address those myths so I knew how to distinguish between
fictional information and the reality.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">So bats
kinda have a bad reputation, but at that point, I was willing to understand
they were a “good” creature in an ecosystem.
But honestly, they were still on my “creepy animal” list. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">My next bat
encounter happened when I was an adult on a family trip and got to see them in
flight at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/cave/planyourvisit/bat_flight_program.htm">Carlsbad
Caverns National Park</a> (New Mexico). </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">A</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">fter a day
of walking the caverns, we sat outside the cave entrance, near sunset, with
hundreds of other visitors from across the World to see the creepy bats. A Park Ranger told us some cool facts about
the creatures: like they are born
hairless and blind, they are the only true flying mammal and they eat insects!
They let us know how sensitive they are to electronic devices during their exit
flight, and to be respectful and quiet while we watch them exit. These bats
happened to be insectivores, feeding on insects for miles and miles. Over
500,000 Brazilian Free Tailed bats were about to fly out! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I remember
this experience vividly. The evening was full of color from the recent sunset
and there was a cool breeze. Everyone was in total silence as you could
gradually here the humming of thousands of wings beating towards us. And then
goose bumps! These little winged creatures funneling out of a long, dark cave
to open freedom and fresh air. In perfect harmony as they blasted past out in
search of the night’s food. Occasionally you could hear their squeaks. No one
spoke. Everyone there was in total amazement of these creatures. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was a
total opposite experience of the first time I “saw” a bat. I officially did not
think they were creepy anymore. <b><span style="color: orange;">Have you had a bat viewing experience? How was it and did it change your opinion of the flying creature?</span></b></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">And that’s
kinda, why I think, it makes for a particularly good creature for Halloween and
mysteries. From first impressions, these creatures have a “costume” of
creepiness, but when you look at the true creature, you find a very cool one
indeed. Lots of Halloween stories involve mistaken identities, tall-tales and
speculation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Let’s
reflect on my bat encounters (and do so on your own bat encounters). How drastically
different these experiences were. What made them so different? An indirect
experience versus direct experience? Fictional, skewed information based on
myths versus accurate information backed by scientific observation and data?
Age? Environment? Being alone versus being with family and friends?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Experience
is the key word. I had a memory made with family, outdoors, watching a creepy,
yet eerily magnificent animal with just enough facts to keep it real, and
enough mystery to make it feel magical. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">So why don’t
we try to give more experiences like that for our students? Experiences like
this increase knowledge and awareness, while also reducing fear and debunking
inaccuracy. Sure sometimes access to experiences is a constraint, so let’s
start with the facts.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h3>
<i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(Remember to never handle bats or other wild animals! )</span></span></i></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Get to know your Bat Neighbor</span></h3>
<span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>Here are
some facts that grabbed my attention:</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Texas is
home to the most bat species in the US. We are home to 32 of 47 species found
in the US!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Bat moms
know their pups (that’s what an immature bat is called) from hundreds of others
based on its smell!</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">bats can eat
their body weight in insects in one night. Ummm, could you imagine eating your body weight in Halloween candy? :)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Echolocation
to navigate the dark is one cool function.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Some species
of bats are considered a pollinator!!!</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;"><b>Dive into
these awesome sites to find your favorite bat fact! Will it change your creepy
creature list to remove bats?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>B</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>at Conservation International – Kidz Cave</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fun, quick facts, videos, coloring sheets
and crafts!<br />
<a href="http://www.batcon.org/resources/media-education/learning">http://www.batcon.org/resources/media-education/learning</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>The Nature Conservancy (some cools pics!)</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">10 Quick Facts about Bats – <br />
Always good info paired with beautiful pictures.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/arizona/top-10-bat-facts.xml">https://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/arizona/top-10-bat-facts.xml</a><u><span style="color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>National Geographic </b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bats have an Appreciation Day to celebrate
them – April 17. These pictures reflect their beauty.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2017/04/incredible-photos-bat-appreciation-day/">http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2017/04/incredible-photos-bat-appreciation-day/</a>
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>Live Science</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</td>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Live Science has accurate information to
build further inquiry on many scientific disciplines.<br />
<a href="https://www.livescience.com/28272-bats.html">https://www.livescience.com/28272-bats.html</a><u><span style="color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: orange;">Texas Parks & Wildlife</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Learn more about the most popular bat in
Texas – the Mexican Free-Tailed Bat<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">(this site also shows the anatomy of the
bat AND bat viewing etiquette – super important as a conservationist and
wildlife viewer)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/bats/bat-watching-sites/#about-bats">https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/bats/bat-watching-sites/#about-bats</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>National Geographic KiDS</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bat Myths Busted!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/nature/bat-myths-busted/#bat-myths-hanging.jpg">http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/nature/bat-myths-busted/#bat-myths-hanging.jpg</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>CNN Travel</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">When they say everything is bigger in
Texas, they mean it! Check out the largest bat colony in the world, Bracken
Cave…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.cnn.com/travel/article/bat-cave-austin-texas/index.html">http://www.cnn.com/travel/article/bat-cave-austin-texas/index.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>National Park Service</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bats, bats, bats – everything the NPS has
on bats, right here. PLUS, a great way to think about the national parks you
would like to visit in order to have your first bat viewing experience!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/bats/index.htm">https://www.nps.gov/subjects/bats/index.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>American Library Association</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Batty About Bats – Book List<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">I challenge you to find these, in your
school library or in your local library!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/resources/battyaboutbats">http://www.ala.org/aboutala/offices/resources/battyaboutbats</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: orange;">National Wildlife Federation</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 314.75pt;" valign="top" width="436"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Build a Bat House!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-size: large;">Great family project to that you can show
your parents all your mad math, science, reading, drawing and building skills
all in one!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><a href="https://www.nwf.org/Home/Garden-for-Wildlife/Cover/Build-a-Bat-House"><span style="font-size: large;">https://www.nwf.org/Home/Garden-for-Wildlife/Cover/Build-a-Bat-House</span></a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: orange;">How did
reading, viewing images or the video change your perceptions of bats? Leave a
comment below to let me know more about your perceptions.</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Bats are
another creature we need to support a healthy, balanced ecosystem. If we eliminated bats(like loss of their habitat), how would that effect the communities surrounding
their caves? Sure we think they are creepy by looks and habits, but after
reading about them, I hope you have an understanding of why we still need them
in our world – and not just as a Halloween decoration, costume or story. <span style="color: orange;">Maybe
your interest is peaked and you can plan a family trip in the spring and summer
to experience your first bat viewing.</span> Or <span style="color: orange;"><b>share a cool fact
whenever you see a bat decoration</b></span>. :)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: orange;">Feed your curiosity with more than just candy this month. Take a chance one late evening, with your family, to sit outside and listen/look for bats eating bugs - maybe even read one of those bat books you find in the library.</span></b> If you do not notice them, why might that be? You might be surprised what you find! </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: orange;">Get outside!</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">OutdoorAmy</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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OutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1492268263512036132.post-23148837954995917252017-04-30T17:04:00.001-07:002017-04-30T17:04:36.288-07:00Second Reflection: AFE 576<div class="MsoTitle">
<w:sdt docpart="E80B414832F340BBB18DC603538381DA" id="726351117" multiline="t" prefixmappings="xmlns:ns0='http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/' xmlns:ns1='http://schemas.openxmlformats.org/package/2006/metadata/core-properties' " sdttag="Title:" storeitemid="X_6C3C8BC8-F283-45AE-878A-BAB7291924A1" text="t" title="Title:" xpath="/ns1:coreProperties[1]/ns0:title[1]">Reflections on Building Supervised Agricultural
Experiences</w:sdt><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="Title2">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
Supervised
Agricultural Experience (SAE) is an opportunity for students to participate in
learning outside of regular classroom hours, with a focus in one of the agricultural
systems. This focus is more meaningful, and time well spent, if it is an
interest area of the student. SAEs requires time, and possibly money, outside
of the normal school day, along with regular journal entries to document the
experience. The overall goal of any SAE is for students to gain real-world knowledge
and skills to help them choose a career pathway for post-secondary success. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
Agriculture is a broad field that supports our world.
Within public schools, we identify those in different systems. These systems
are: Agribusiness; Animal Sciences;
Biotechnology; Leadership/Business; Environmental Services; Food Products and
Processing; Natural Resources; Plants; and Power, Structural and Technical
systems. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
Students interested in an Agribusiness focused SAEs have
a wide range of opportunities. These opportunities can directly relate to
businesses and industry within a school district, and crosses into all facets
of agriculture. These SAEs focus on, “business principles, including
management, marking and finance, and their application to enterprises.” An
example SAE within agribusiness is agri-tourism. This SAE not only supports the
agribusiness system, but also helps the student learn more about cultural,
environmental, and economical aspects of the region. Here is a <a href="https://communities.naae.org/thread/11984">link</a> to a lesson, from the
National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) online communities of
practice, to further development an SAE in agri-tourism. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
Animal systems SAEs are probably the most practiced SAEs.
The focus is on, “including life processes, health, nutrition, genetics,
management and processing, through the study of small animals, aquaculture,
livestock, dairy, horses and/or poultry.” These are also very reflective of the
type of industry in the area and within the school district. Many rural schools
may not support small animal projects, but within urban areas, these may be
more practical due to space and city restrictions. An example of an SAE in
animal systems is a guide-dog program, where students care for and train
puppies to be guide-dogs. Just like many animal projects within an ag department,
this would be a program the school district, campus and ag teacher would
support and manage annually for the benefit of multiple student projects. For
more information on a successful program, learn more from Byron Nelson High
School: <a href="http://byronnelson.ffanow.org/default.aspx?ID=41729">http://byronnelson.ffanow.org/default.aspx?ID=41729</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
Biotechnology system SAEs focus on, “The study of data
and techniques of applied science for the solution of problems concerning
living organisms.” This type of SAE would be most beneficial to students within
an area with a biotechnology industry, or a larger district that has this
pathway. Students academically advanced in math and sciences would benefit from
a research or placement SAE in this system. A unique opportunity would be with pharmaceuticals
or genetically modified organisms in plant sciences or pest management. The US
Food & Drug Administration offers a Veterinary Medicine Student Program for
a variety of internships. <a href="https://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/WorkingatFDA/FellowshipInternshipGraduateFacultyPrograms/VeterinaryMedicineStudentInternships/default.htm">https://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/WorkingatFDA/FellowshipInternshipGraduateFacultyPrograms/VeterinaryMedicineStudentInternships/default.htm</a>
For students interested in plant sciences, a coveted internship with the Noble
Foundation would be a great placement and research SAE: <a href="https://www.noble.org/education/scholar-program/research-scholars/">https://www.noble.org/education/scholar-program/research-scholars/</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
An SAE in the Cluster/Leadership/Business skills system focuses
on, “Leadership, personal growth and career success skills necessary for a
chosen profession that may relate to several of the other areas of interest.” This
type of SAE would benefit students who have completed a SAE and want to explore
other options within that system. This would give students additional
experiences to increase their knowledge, skills and attitudes of career choices
within that system. For example,
business management of beef production to leading policy changes in cattle
production or agricultural literacy to know where your food comes from. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
Students
interested in an Environmental Service system SAE focus on, “The study of
systems, instruments and technology used in waste management and their
influence on the environment.” This SAE could be done in conjunction of another
student’s animal systems SAE and the waste involved with animal production.
Another example could be a placement or research SAE with a dairy or poultry operation,
or even a feedlot. Some responsibilities a student would grow from in a wastewater
operator internship with a beef processing plant is: lab testing for process control, biological nutrient
removal studies, collect samples, work collaboratively and more. <a href="http://www.linkup.com/job/ee2548f03d1aa297684ddf61859e85a34bad/waste-water-operator-intern-job-in-toppenish-wa">http://www.linkup.com/job/ee2548f03d1aa297684ddf61859e85a34bad/waste-water-operator-intern-job-in-toppenish-wa</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
A Food Products
and Processing Systems SAE involves, “The study of product development, quality
assurance, food safety, production, sales and service, regulation and
compliance, and food service within the food science industry.” These SAEs
provide students a look into processed meats and plants for consumption. This
provides a whole other look at agriculture as it goes from farm to table. Opportunities
for SAEs in this system could be dependent on the processing plants, grocers and
other food services in the area. Even access to universities and their
processing labs would be a great exploratory SAE. Texas Tech has research
facilities in food microbiology, pathogen processing laboratory, and even a
mobile laboratory. <a href="https://www.depts.ttu.edu/afs/foodsafety/facilities.php">https://www.depts.ttu.edu/afs/foodsafety/facilities.php</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
An SAE in
the Natural Resources Systems focuses on, “The study of the management of soil,
water, wildlife, forests and air as natural resources.” There is a wide range
of SAEs in this system. This SAE would be reflective of the resources and
environment within the community and school district. A project that could be
beneficial to the school, as well as the student leading the SAE, is a schoolyard
habitat. This SAE would support the design, building and use of a garden, or
wildlife habitat, at t school. This would be a long-term SAE, with a way to
attract students for future ag enrollment and show diversity in agriculture. It
would also could be a collaborative project with other systems to support many
students in the chapter. To learn more: <a href="http://www.nwf.org/garden-for-wildlife/create/schoolyards.aspx">http://www.nwf.org/garden-for-wildlife/create/schoolyards.aspx</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
The Plant
Systems SAE is, “The study of plant life cycles, classifications, functions,
practices, through the study of crops, turf grass, trees and shrubs and/or
ornamental plants.” This SAE also offers a variety of opportunities depending
on the needs of the student. An example is working with the natural resources
system student and their schoolyard habitat. The student could lead an
exploratory SAE to identify plants, insects and wildlife for the school, or
even research the impact the habitat has at school for biodiversity. Another
SAE that could grow from the schoolyard habitat is a community interest in
backyard habitats with native plants used in the schoolyard habitat. Therefore,
a student could lead entrepreneurship SAE by growing and selling native plants.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
The last
type of SAE is within the Power, Structural and Technical Systems were students
learn more about, “The study of agricultural equipment, power systems,
alternative fuel sources and precision technology, as well as woodworking,
metalworking, welding and project planning for agricultural structures.” This
is probably the next most common SAE supporting many experiences within CDE,
shows and leadership events. Students could build structures to support animal
or plant production at home, or school. They could maintain machinery or repair
it, as well as restore antique tractors. Any of these experiences could range
from exploratory to research to entrepreneurship. An example for a tractor
restoration contest, with a monetary prize of $10,000: <a href="http://www.delotractorrestorationcompetition.com/">http://www.delotractorrestorationcompetition.com/</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
Overall,
SAEs should focus on the interest, time commitment and budget of the student.
To help students explore what type of SAE they should be involved with, a great
first step is the SAE explorer: <a href="http://exploresae.com/builder/">http://exploresae.com/builder/</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
OutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1492268263512036132.post-37905647184945980782017-04-14T10:53:00.003-07:002017-04-14T10:53:56.348-07:00AGED 576 Post on Placement SAEs<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
A placement
Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) is an opportunity for students to participate
in a job-like situation. It requires time, and possibly money, outside of the
normal school day, along with regular journal entries to document the
experience. The overall goal of a placement SAE is for students to learn how to
be a successful, productive and valuable employee.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
There are a wide range of placement SAEs within FFA, but
also in other youth organizations like FCCLA, DECA or 4-H. They can also be school-related,
work-based, and outdoor or adventure education, community service or study
abroad.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
An example of a field-trip SAE is students representing
their organization while being a teen-volunteer/chaperone. As a field-trip
volunteer they would have to be involved in the planning process, know the
safety and learning expectations and facilitate learning while on the trip. A
great example is a professional development experience I recently participated in
with STEM and beef production in California agriculture. If students had
volunteered with this event, they could have provided resources and knowledge about
the region, culture, economy and educational system. It could be a paid or
non-paid experience. This would be a great opportunity for any FFA or 4-H member,
or even a range of CTSOs in agricultural sciences and STEM. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
Work-based learning SAEs should be directly related to
that’s student career pathway. An example of a work-based learning SAE would be
a student working with a county extension agent. Working with a county
extension agent would reflect relevant and local issues in a range of
agricultural, natural resources and plant sciences topics. It would also show
the range of work needed in the many hours of planning, traveling and importance
of documentation. If the student is interested in agricultural education or
leadership, this would be a great organization to see the variety of producers/consumers
Extension works with, as well as the different venues, demonstrations and workshops
given to lead change. Another benefit is to see how the different pathways at
the high school level, truly work together in the real world because each
county normally has an agricultural rep, a family/consumer science agent and
other agents depending on the county’s needs. This would be an unpaid SAE.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
Outdoor recreation is reflective of the area one lives in
and therefore offer a variety of activities like fishing, hunting, camping or
hiking. An example of an outdoor recreation
SAE is within the Student Internship Program with the Texas Parks and Wildlife
Department. The internship is designed
for students interested in the conservation-related field. It provides a
realistic view of TWPD and the different divisions within it. Students would
spend hours outdoors using field equipment, gaining knowledge and the
importance of public safety/communication. They would also have a chance to
work with a diverse group. This is for college students and can be paid or
unpaid. The internship is competitive, so they also have volunteer opportunities
or seasonal employment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2">
Adventure education is different from outdoor recreation,
although most experiences take place outside. Generic examples of adventure education
would be ropes courses, rock climbing, and archery, orienteering and snow
sports. The type of adventure ed available is directly related to weather conditions
and environment. A student could be camp leader or docent, at a summer
adventure camp, or even within Girls or Boy Scouts of America. Responsibilities
of a camp leader would be modeling safety, demonstration of various equipment,
leadership and team building and strong oral communication. This would be a
non-paid SAE. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
Family,
Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapters are active in
community and service learning projects within many schools. An example of a service learning and
leadership development SAEs is participation in the “Lead2Feed” program to “nurture
a new generation of leaders while working to end local and global hunger.”
Students use project management, decision-making and teamwork to address a need
within their community. It also is a grant opportunity for chapters to compete,
for moneys to go to charity of choice, or for technology within their school. This
community service project would require volunteer hours of planning, service
and team building within the targeted need. Needs would be different depending
on the community. Examples are can food drives, meal delivery, holiday meal
delivery, community gardens or cleanup and more. For more about this program,
visit: <a href="https://www.lead2feed.org/">https://www.lead2feed.org/</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="Title2" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
Study
abroad placement SAEs may be harder for students to obtain. A good example of
one would be as a collegiate course. Many universities offer 10day to 3-week
mini-courses abroad to learn more about cultural, economic and social aspects
of that country. These courses encompass the service or community SAEs. A
student would go abroad to work with local farmers to become more sustainable,
while they learn about service, teamwork, budgeting and communication. This would
be a non-paid SAE.<o:p></o:p></div>
OutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1492268263512036132.post-36469396817258917432017-04-01T21:57:00.003-07:002021-06-08T19:45:48.788-07:00Hi there<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hello !</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Been sooo long and meaning to get back to my blog. Keep thinking about it, but get sidetracked.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Well, now I have a very good reason to get blogging again (and stay active this round). Working towards my Masters and a blog is required for this course! :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, here's to happy blogging!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Amy</span>OutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1492268263512036132.post-63077353800471817372015-08-19T08:26:00.001-07:002015-08-19T08:26:47.321-07:00Welcome!Hello!<br />
<br />
This is new for me. I have never blogged, and haven't much journalled since I was in high school (and yes, that was more of an outlet for teenage angst). But I am in a new district, with a shift of educational expectations than in my previous district.<br />
<br />
I learned in the past few weeks of many PLC sessions that writing should take place in every subject. I wholeheartedly agree with that. But way easier said than done! I taught STEM for the past six years (in my previous district) and encouraged my students to keep engineering notebooks. Some were amazing with it, keeping thoughts, drawings and ideas updated daily. But most hated it.<br />
<br />
I never really thought much about it, other than they were lazy. But was that really the case?? So when I was listening to one of our Keynote speakers from the ENGAGE conference last week, it struck me what I was missing in my classroom: encouragement. Encouragement with the guarantee that I would not judge on grammar, spelling or punctuation, or even content. Just the fact they were trying! Encourage. Then when that trust was there, that comfort, the student may be open to encouraging better spelling or grammar....<br />
<br />
So I decided to give it a try myself. I already knew that I wanted to have my "field notes" of my daily walks of the OLC. Observing wildlife, insects, plants, the weather. You name it, I wanted to observe and document. I wasn't sure I wanted to have it "published" online for others, because honestly, I am not the best speller or ever really grammatically correct person, let alone educator, out there. I change tenses, use punctuation wrong and really, I definetly spell wrong. (Did you notice I misspelled definitely...and I didn't fix it.) I thought that no student, especially teacher, would take the time to listen to my thoughts if I was so horrible with the English language.<br />
<br />
But then the ENGAGE conference was so inspiring, I decided to put those worries aside.<br />
<br />
I came to the conclusion that it is way more important that I model writing, observation and communication, rather than fear.<br />
<br />
So here we are. I have created this blog to document my journey as the Outdoor Learning Coordinator and the many, many adventures I hope to have with our NISD students, teachers and community. Daily? Maybe. Weekly? For sure. :)<br />
<br />
And if my blog isn't enough OutdoorAmy for you, follow me on Twitter @OutdoorAmy and be sure to like the Outdoor Learning Center on Facebook (NISD OLC) and follow @NISDOLC<br />
<br />
Enjoy the rain today! :)<br />
Outdoor AmyOutdoorAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03099625356416647185noreply@blogger.com0