General Lesson Structure - One Teacher's Experience

A Word of Advice: Rita's Rule
When talking to students outdoors, make sure that the sun is not in their eyes. Simply turn the group so that their eyes are out of the sun.

General Lesson Plan Structure

I present each lesson as a single concept, integrating the components of habitat, interdependence of living things and the human impact upon the planet. There are five basic parts to each one-hour class. 

1. Circle Up (10 minutes)
Linking arms, students form a circle, creating feelings of connection and relaxation with one another, as I share a reflective reading with the group. Following the reading of poems, quotes and other writings from earth inspired individuals, students are invited to share "Outdoor News". This may include reporting on a wildlife sighting or a special natural space they have visited; older students are encouraged to comment on current events concerning the state of the planet. The day's temperature, wind speed and direction are announced.

2. Active Cooperative Game (5 minutes)
To put the group more at ease and to release built-up energy, the students play a quick cooperative fast-moving game. Whenever possible, the game will relate to the concept to be explored in that lesson.

3. Core Lesson (10 minutes)
This segment provides background information about the concept and introduces the format for the day's activity.

4. Activity (30 minutes)
The largest portion of class time consists of a hands-on learning opportunity for the students to explore concept-related topics.

5. Clean Up and Dismissal (5 minutes)