This fall, pre-K students across the city will be treated to an exciting educational experience as the Fields Pond Audubon Center visits to teach hands-on science lessons. Focusing on the theme of fall and the wonders of Maine's wildlife, the program engages students through interactive activities that highlight the five senses.
When the Audubon team visited Vine Street School this week, they brought the beauty of the season into the classroom. Students were encouraged to use their senses to explore the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of fall.
To solidify their learning, students participated in interactive games and activities involving their senses. With the help of Audubon educators, they identified an owl, skunk, rabbit, snake, and porcupine using sensory clues. Hands-on activities allowed students to engage with nature directly. They explored different textures, from hard deer antlers to the soft feathers and fur.
The Audubon Center has donated classroom resources to each of the pre-K classrooms in Bangor to extend the learning. Through engaging stories, visuals, and manipulatives, the students will continue to learn about local animals, the changing seasons, and the importance of preserving their habitats.
“The visit from Fields Pond Audubon was not just about imparting knowledge; it aimed to instill a sense of curiosity and respect for the environment among the students,” said Debbe Swett, Vine Street Principal. "Experiences like this ignite a passion for science and nature in our students. It's vital for them to understand and appreciate the world around them."
The collaboration between Fields Pond Audubon and the Bangor Elementary Schools exemplifies the importance of hands-on education in fostering a love for science and nature in young minds. We are looking forward to seeing the Fields Pond crew for our next interactive lesson on winter ecology!