First graders at Gurney Elementary School kicked off their science unit with some special visitors from the Geauga Park District and an up-close look at the animals and habitats they will be learning about this year.
Students explored frogs native to Ohio, learning about where different species live and listening to the unique sounds they make. The program also introduced students to reptiles and amphibians and gave them an opportunity to see a red-spotted newt up close.
The visit served as an engaging introduction to first grade science concepts connected to Ohio’s learning standards, including how living things have basic needs and depend on their habitats to survive.
“The Geauga Parks District generously provides free outreach programming for schools” said Vicky Pelsozy, first grade teacher. “The program is interactive and hands-on making the learning experience memorable and fun for first graders.”
Throughout the unit, students will build on these early observations as they learn more about living things and the environments around them. The hands-on experience with the Geauga Park District gave students a memorable starting point for asking questions, making observations and thinking like scientists.
