"Nature study is a springboard to inquiry-based learning. To
Look Closely gives teachers everything they need to start and
sustain units of study that integrate science with reading comprehension
strategies and writing in a variety of genres." summarizes Education Week.
Laurie invites you to join her class of twenty-one second graders as they
visit a small stream in the woods behind a suburban elementary school,
and she shares her reflections on class discussions, activities, and
learning experiences. From setting a tone of inquiry-based thinking in
the classroom to suggesting specific units of study for reading,
writing, and science, Laurie guides teachers step-by-step through the
basics of how to integrate the skills acquired through nature study into
every subject. You will also discover all the ways this purposeful work
nurtures "green" citizens who grow up determined to value and protect
the natural environment.
Filled with student journal entries, narratives, and poems inspired by experiences in the natural world, To Look Closely
will inspire and encourage you to become a careful observer of your own
"sit spots" outdoors and embrace nature study for a year—or for
whatever part of a year is possible for you. This book will change the way you view the world.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Why Nature Study?
Chapter 1: Ten Tips for Getting Started on Nature Study
Chapter 2: Moments of Science
Chapter 3: A Year at the Stream - Autumn
Chapter 4: A Year at the Stream - Winter
Chapter 5: A Year at the Stream - Spring
Chapter 6: Literacy Through Nature Study - Reading
Chapter 7: Literacy Through Nature Study - Writing
Chapter 8: Creating Stewards of the Natural World
Postscript
Appendixes
Preview the entire book online!
About Laurie Rubin
Laurie Rubin taught first and second grades in Ithaca, New York for
twenty-three years where nature study became the heart of her
curriculum. She currently consults and presents on a variety of
education topics including literacy and critical thinking skills.
Read more...
Source: Stenhouse Publishers and Education Week