wehr nature center k-12 education program guide … · education program guide wehr nature center...

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2016–2017Education Program GuideWehr Nature Center

Wehr Nature Center9701 W. College Ave., Franklin, WI 53132

(414) 425-8550friendsofwehr.org

K-12

A Place For All Seasons, A Place For Everyone!Let us share our respect and passion for the natural world with your students. Our award winning programs make real world connections to your classroom learning, cultivate children’s curiosity, and deepen their understanding and appreciation of the world they live in.

Our Educational Goals: • Inspire children to love and care for the Earth • Provide purposeful, developmentally appropriate learning opportunities for children ages 3 to 18 • Help children explore the natural world in a fun and safe manner • Create a learning environment where students of all abilities can thrive • Encourage children to ask their own questions and follow their curiosity to their own answers • Integrate current learning standards and best teaching practices into all programming

Whether you are joining us for a field trip at Wehr’s 220-acre nature preserve, exploring a natural area with our naturalists at one of Milwaukee County ‘s parks, or inviting us into your classroom, we work with you to create a quality learning experience.

K-12 School Opportunities Include: • Field trips to Wehr Nature Center • Outreach field trips that utilize the natural areas at a variety of Milwaukee County Parks • In-school Programs (We can incorporate outdoor learning if a site is available.) • In-school Sessions for High Interest Day and/or Science Night events • Professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators • School partnerships. (We would like to work with your school district to tailor a custom educational package. Please contact us to discuss how we can help.) • High School level forestry and water quality environmental science equipment is available for loan. (Contact us for details and to reserve it for your classroom use.)

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General Information

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Extension provides equal opportunity in employment

and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements.

Cancellation PolicyPrograms cancelled 30 days prior to the program date will not be charged a cancellation fee. Any program cancelled with less than 30 days notice will be charged a $30 fee. Wehr Nature Center does not cancel field trips based on weather. Alternate, indoor activities will be conducted if dangerous weather prevents outdoor activities. If your school has a weather related cancelation, Wehr Nature Center will make every effort to accommodate rescheduling.

Chaperone PolicyChaperones help cultivate a safe and encouraging learning environment. Wehr Nature Center requires a minimum of one adult (teacher, aide or parent) to accompany every 10 children at our outdoor field trips. Three adults per ten children are free. Additional chaperones beyond this ratio will be charged at the child rate.

Chaperone responsibilities are fully detailed on the next page (page 3).

Booking Information

Request Your Program Today!Complete the online program request form at www.friendsofwehr.org. Our registrar will contact you via e-mail to confirm your program request. Reservations for the following school year can be made beginning April 1st. We recommend requesting your program as soon as possible, but we require at least one month prior to your preferred date to schedule and confirm. If you have questions, please contact us at (414) 425-8550 or email the [email protected]

Confirmation and BillingAfter your program is confirmed with our registrar, a confirmation letter and invoice will be sent to the email provided on your request form within five business days.

Payment Payment is due 30 days prior to your program date. Payment can be made with cash, credit card, or check.

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Chaperone Information

Chaperone InformationThank you for taking the time to be a chaperone for this outdoor learning adventure with Wehr Nature Center! Our nature programs promote active learning. We need your help as a chaperone to keep children engaged in and enjoying their experience with nature.

We ask that you:

• Dress for the weather including proper footwear. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes should be worn. Rain or snow boots can be worn as appropriate. Programs continue rain or shine, so wear weather appropriate layers that you don’t mind getting dirty.• Follow all instructions and nature center rules, and help students do the same. Be a role model for students. Demonstrate good behavior and encourage the same of students. Model respect for nature by not destroying or collecting plants or animals.• Help facilitate the supervision of children. Together with the teaching naturalist, chaperones are responsible for cultivating a safe learning environment. Keep the group together, help children use equipment, facilitate restroom visits, and intervene to keep students on task and engaged in positive behavior. • Have fun! Be an active and enthusiastic participant. Be ready to get down on your knees and explore with the kids. Help students make their own discoveries and come to their own conclusions. We love to hear your “adult” questions and will be happy to answer them at the conclusion so we can maximize the learning experience. • Refrain from using cellphones. Cellphones should be silenced and stowed away. You are welcome to use them for photography at appropriate times, but please don’t allow them to be a distraction! You’ll need your hands and mind free to work with the children.

Please Copy And Share This Page With Chaperones. 3

Table of Contents

Program Name Page K5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8Biodiversity Basics 9Ecosystems 10Insect Safari 10Investigating Watersheds 10Keyed On Trees 11Let’s Go Climb A Moraine 11Make Tracks For Home 11Maple Magic I 12Maple Magic II 12Nature’s Neighborhoods 12Puppet Show: Goose’s Fall Adventure 13Puppet Show: Weasel’s Winter Coat 13Puppet Show: Ladybug’s Spring Breakfast 13Puppet Show: Willow Pond in Summer 13Rocks & Minerals 14Soil Secrets 14Trees & Me 14Water Explorers 15Weeds in the Wild 15

Programs Offered At Wehr Nature Center

Program Name Page K5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8Apple Antics 16Insect Safari 17Keyed On Trees 17Lake Michigan Treasures 17Let’s Get Growing 17Let’s Talk Turkey 18Make Tracks For Home 18Maple Magic 18Nature’s Neighborhoods 19Puppet Show: Goose’s Fall Adventure 19Puppet Show: Weasel’s Winter Coat 19Puppet Show: Ladybug’s Spring Breakfast 19Puppet Show: Willow Pond in Summer 20Trees & Me 20

Programs Offered At A Milwaukee County Park

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Program Name Page K5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8Snow Clues 20Super Salamanders 20Water Explorers 21Web Weavers 21Wiggly Worms 21

Table of ContentsPrograms Offered At A Milwaukee County Park

Program Name Page K5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8Apple Antics 22Awesome Owls 23Backyard Invertebrates 23Bugs on Stage 23Friends Underfoot 23If You Went to a Pioneer School 23Let’s Get Growing 24Let’s Talk Turkey 24One Butterfly.…Three Countries 24Paper Making 24Snow Clues 24Sssenational Snakes 25Super Salamanders 25Tales of Tracks and Trails 25Web Weavers 25Welcome to the Night 26Wiggly Worms 26

Programs Offered At Your School

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Science PracticesAsking Questions

Using Models

Carrying Out InvestigationsAnalyzing & Interpreting DataMathmatical ThinkingConstructing ExplanationsArguing From EvidenceCommunicating Information

Programs Offered At Wehr Nature Center

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Using Models


Programs Offered At A Milwaukee County Park

7



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Using Models


Programs Offered At Your School

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Programs at Wehr Nature Center

Biodiversity BasicsGrades: 7 - 12Length: 2 hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsDiscover the diversity of life that lives in the forests, grasslands, and wetlands of Wehr Nature Center. Students work in teams to survey the plant, animal, and invertebrate life in two ecosystems and use plot samples to quantify the biodiversity index for each location. Data on abiotic factors such as temperature, wind, and soil are measured and compared. Groups can choose to use digital cameras and iPads to record and share their findings.

When: September - October and May - JuneKey Concepts: biodiversity, ecosystems, human impacts, species interactionsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, analyzing data, mathematical thinking, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Wehr Nature Center is a 220-acre naturepreserve located within Whitnall Park, one of Milwaukee County Park’s largest properties.

Wehr showcases the amazing diversity of southeastern Wisconsin’s natural communities including wetlands, woodlands, prairie, oak savanna and pond. With over five miles of trails, there are plenty of opportunities for exploration.

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Ecosystems Grades: 4 - 6Length: 2 hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 students“Why is there so much grass in the prairie?” “Why do pill bugs live under logs?” Children are challenged to observe and question like scientists as they explore Wehr’s forest and prairie. Students compare the kinds of plants and animals found in each environment and use instruments including thermometers, wind meters, and soil probes to collect data about the abiotic conditions. An emphasis is placed on observation, measurement, questioning, and critical thinking skills. The data generated can be analyzed using post-trip materials. Aligns with FOSS “Environments” unit

When: September - mid October and May - June Key Concepts: adaptations, community, ecosystems, habitatsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, analyzing data, mathematical thinking, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Insect Safari Grades: 1 - 6Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsDiscover and visit with the little creatures that run our world. Students learn how to identify invertebrates by watching classmates in costumes model characteristics. Invertebrate life cycles are discussed using models and live animal examples. A discovery hike gives students a safe close-up experience with backyard invertebrates using collection tools and magnifiers. Children study adaptations by looking at legs, body parts, and wings of awesome crawly creatures they collect on their hike.Aligns with FOSS Science “Insects” and “Insects and Plants” units

When: September - October and late April - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, classification, interactions, life cyclesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence Investigating Watersheds: The Mystery of the Yucky Lake Grades: 5 -12Length: 2 ½ hoursFee: $6.50 per student, $5.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a mimimum fee of of $70, $35 materials feeLimit: 60 studentsStudents become environmental detectives as they work to solve the mystery of Wehr’s yucky lake. The program begins with an interactive introduction to watersheds and how humans impact them. Groups then rotate through stations where they collect data on the water quality within Wehr’s own Tess Corners Creek watershed. Students use scientific sampling methods and tools such as a biotic index, turbidity tubes, and water chemistry kits to determine thesource of pollution impacting Mallard Lake. Aligns with Project Based Inquiry Science “LivingTogether” unit

When: September - mid October and May - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, erosion, human impacts on environment, watersheds, water pollutionNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, mathematical thinking, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information


“This program always ties in nicely with our ecosystem science unit. I am amazed at the great knowledge and love for nature the naturalists have and the way every student is brought into the experience.”

Mary Schwieso, 4th grade teacher Holy Apostle Elementary School

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Keyed on TreesGrades: 4 - 6 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsTrees are the largest, oldest living organisms on Earth. They are actually some of our best antiques! Trees come in all shapes and all sizes. In this program, students learn how to identify common Wisconsin trees using a “kid-friendly, living” dichotomous tree key. After learning tree vocabulary and practicing with the “living” key, students venture out into the woods to try out their new learned skills of tree identification. Measurement and a mathematical equation are also used to determine tree ages.

When: September - October and late May - June Key Concepts: adaptations, biological key, forestry careers, measurementNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Let’s Go Climb a Moraine Grades: 4 - 8Length: 2 hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsStudents travel over moraines and kames as they investigate the impact of the Ice Age on our southeast Wisconsin landscape. A power point presentation and interactive models introduce the process of glaciation and geological time before we head outside in small groups to “Climb a Moraine”. The hour long walk allows students to get a “foots-on” understanding of landforms as we explore the geological features of Whitnall Park.Aligns with FOSS unit “Soils, Rocks and Landforms” and “Landforms” units

When: September - November and April - June Key Concepts: fossils, glaciers, geological time scale, landforms

NGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations

Make Tracks for Home Grades: 1 - 5 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsStudents learn about wildlife including their habitat needs: food, water, shelter, and space. Students will see a powerpoint to help identify animal tracks and signs. They also make a plaster cast of an animal footprint before taking a hike to discover animal clues and track stories.

When: September - JuneKey Concepts: animal adaptations, habitat, how animals surviveNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, carrying out investigations, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information


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Maple Magic IGrades: K5 -1 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsCome celebrate the sweet Wisconsin tradition of maple sugaring! Children meet “Maggie The Maple Tree” during an interactive story that discusses tree life cycles and seasonal changes. During a walk to Wehr’s sugar bush children identify trees, measure trunks to find the perfect sized tree, use hand tools to drill tap holes, and taste and collect sweet sap drips. Students see how the clear sap is transformed into golden syrup at our boil down station and enjoy a treat of maple sugar on a stick. The Maple Syrup Challenge tests your taste buds as you compare “fake” pancake syrup to real maple syrup.

When: late February - MarchKey Concepts: adaptations, life cycles, measurement, tree identification, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, mathematical thinking, constructing explanations

Maple Magic IIGrades: 2 - 8Length: 2 hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsCome celebrate the sweet Wisconsin tradition of maple sugaring! Students take a trip though time as they participate in a play about the history of maple sugaring from its Native American origins to the maple syrup farmers of today. During a walk through Wehr’s sugar bush, children identify trees, measure trunks to find the perfect sized tree, use hand tools to drill tap holes, and taste and collect sweet sap drips. Students learn how the clear sap is transformed into golden syrup at our boil down station and enjoy a treat of maple sugar on a stick. The Maple Syrup Challenge tests your taste buds as

you compare “fake” pancake syrup to real maple syrup and everyone becomes a tree part in our “Human Tree Factory” activity that models how tree physiology impacts maple sugaring.

When: late February - MarchKey Concepts: measurement, plant physiology, tree identification, Wisconsin historyNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, mathematical thinking, constructing explanations

Nature’s NeighborhoodsGrades: 1- 3Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsHabitat is more than a home; it is the place where you find the food, water, shelter and space you need to survive. Like people, animals and plants get what they need to survive from their “neighborhoods”. Children will explore these natural neighborhoods as they visit forest, wetland, and grassland habitats. Students learn about wildlife as they search for a “Dream Home” and “Groceries” for a variety of local critters.

When: September - October and April - June Key Concepts: adaptations, community, food chains, habitats, Wisconsin wildlifeNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information


“Thank you so much for a wonderful field trip. Everyone said it was very nice. The children learned a lot. We were MOST impressed with the naturalists who led us on our mini excursions. We each were bragging about how great ours were, only to compare later and hear that every single volunteer demonstrated exemplary teaching. They showed that they love children and nature. Great models! Great job!

Tess Corners 1st Grade

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Puppet Show: Canada Goose’s Fall AdventureGrades: K5 -1 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsIn this original puppet show, children follow Canada Goose as he spends his fall in Wisconsin trying to decide what to do for the winter. Children go on a fall nature discovery hike that helps reinforce Goose’s adventure.

When: September - DecemberKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Puppet Show: Weasel’s Winter CoatGrades: K5 - 1 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsA clever but slightly confused Long-Tailed Weasel discovers the benefits of camouflage and winter adaptations in this original puppet show. A seasonal sensory hike engages children in discovery and wonder.

When: January - FebruaryKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Puppet Show: Lady Bug’s Spring BreakfastGrades: K5 - 1 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsLady Bug awakens from a winter sleep to discover she is very hungry. She visits her friends in search of her favorite food, aphids. A hike which engages children in discovery and wonder of spring secrets follows this original puppet show.

When: April - mid-MayKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Puppet Show: Willow Pond in SummerGrades: K5 - 2 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsIn this original puppet show, miraculous changes happen to a tadpole as he transforms into a toad. Toad meets many other animals living in and around Willow Pond who are changing and growing faster than you can say “metamorphosis.” A seasonal hike follows the show.

When: mid-May - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, life cycle, seasonal changeNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations


“We enjoyed every program we have attended! You have a wide variety of different programs! Wonderful job! Thank you! “

St. Sava Orthodox School

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Rocks and Minerals Grades: 3 - 8 Length: 2 hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsExplore the properties of earth materials with Wehr’s outstanding collection of rocks and minerals. Students learn the properties and uses of minerals and identify hand samples using a scientific key. Building on their new knowledge of minerals, children explore how rocks are transformed during the rock cycle using hand samples of minerals, sediments, and rocks to create their own models. A rock and mineral scavenger hunt allows children to apply their knowledge as we explore Wehr’s fieldstone building and nearby outdoor areas (weather permitting). Aligns with FOSS “Earth Materials” and “Soil, Rocks, and Landforms” units

When: September - June, except MarchKey Concepts: human uses of rocks and minerals, properties of minerals, rock cycle ,scientific keysNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, carrying out investigations, constructing explanations

Soil SecretsGrades: 1 - 3 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsStudents become soil scientists as they study the ingredients, properties, and importance of soil. They use sieves to explore soil textures, hike to find soil critters and signs of erosion, and discover how soil made their breakfast.Aligns with FOSS “Pebbles, Sand, and Silt” and Sangari Science Unit “Soils”

When: September - November and May - JuneKey Concepts: erosion, food chain, living and non-living components of soil, soil propertiesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, constructing explanations

Trees and MeGrades: 1 - 3 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsChildren will create a living tree as they learn how a tree grows. They will hike out to meet the forest trees and discover the many benefits of trees from summer shade to maple sap.

When: September - OctoberKey Concepts: adaptations, forestry, habitats, plant physiology, habitatsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations


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Water Explorers Grades: 1 - 4Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsStudents will be amazed by the life they find in and around the pond! Children will peer into the private lives of the tiny creatures that are the backbone of the pond food chain as they use scoops and hand-held microscopes to collect and observe macro-invertebrates. Students discover the diversity of plants and animals that live in wetlands along the pond’s edge as they play “Wetland Bingo”. Costumes are used to model the amazing adaptations of aquatic creatures and how everything is connected in the pond food chain.

When: September - October and May - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, ecosystems, food chainsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations

Weeds In The WildGrades: 5 -12Length: 2 hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsWhat are weeds and how do they change an environment? Students learn about plant adaptations and how humans can impact the environment for better and for worse. An interactive game models competition for resources and demonstrates how quickly invasive plants can change native landscapes. Children become environmental stewards by pulling garlic mustard/ buckthorn under the guidance of Nature Center staff & volunteers.

When: September - October; May - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, competition for resources, invasive species, human impacts on native environments, plant identification, service learning NGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations


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Meet us at the park! Outreach programs utilize park pavilions (with restrooms) and the wonderful natural areas in our Milwaukee County Parks.

(What is the) extinction of a condor to a child who has

never seen a wren?

-Naturalist Robert Michael Pyle

Apple AnticsGrades: K5 - 1Length: 1 1/2 hours, additional 1/2 hour for real apple piesFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70 Additional fee of $1.50 per child for real apple piesLimit: 60 studentsChildren take an imaginary trip around the globe to gather ingredients to bake an apple pie. Marjorie Priceman’s book How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World acquaints children with the fact that their food comes from all over the world before it arrives in the grocery store for them to buy. Children will taste a variety of apples and compare and contrast their findings. You may choose for the children to make a potpourri pie or a real mini apple pie (additional fees apply for real pies). The program includes a hike to search for fall foods and other signs of the season.

When: September - NovemberKey Concepts: geography, measurement, seasons, sensesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Programs at a Milwaukee County Park

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Insect SafariGrades: 1 - 6Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsDiscover and visit with the little creatures that run our world. Students learn how to identify invertebrates by watching classmates in costumes model characteristics. Invertebrate life cycles are discussed using models and live animal examples. A discovery hike gives students a safe close-up experience with backyard invertebrates using collection tools and magnifiers. Chil-dren study adaptations by looking at legs, body parts, and wings of awesome crawly creatures they collect on their hike. Aligns with FOSS Science “Insects” and “Insects and Plants” units

When: September - October and late April - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, classification, interactions, life cyclesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence

Keyed on TreesGrades: 4 - 6 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsTrees are the largest, oldest living organisms on Earth. They are actually some of our best antiques! Trees come in all shapes and all sizes. In this program, students learn how to identify common Wisconsin trees using a “kid-friendly, living” dichotomous tree key. After learning tree vocabulary and practicing with the “living” key, students venture out into the woods to try out their new learned skills of tree identification. Measurement and a mathematical equation are also used to determine tree ages.

When: September - October and late May - June Key Concepts: adaptations, biological key, forestry careers, measurementNGSS Science Practices: asking questions,

using models, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Lake Michigan TreasuresGrades: 3 - 6Length: 2 hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsStudents discover the “treasures” of our own Lake Mich-igan as they explore the beach , ravines and bluffs of Grant Park’s famous Seven Bridges Trail. Children track waves, sift sand, and find fossil rocks along the shore. Groups collect data about water quality and the beach using a turbidity tube, thermometers and wind meters.

When: September - mid-October, mid-May - June Key Concepts: beach, ravine and bluff habitats, cur-rents, geology, Great Lakes, human impacts on the environment NGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Let’s Get GrowingGrades: K5 - 1Length: 1 ½ hours Fee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsDuring an interactive telling of Jack’s Garden by Henry Cole children search for, observe, and plant different types of seeds. Children take an imaginary journey to the garden that Jack grew. Time is spent learning about what all plants need to survive and observing different types of seeds, from poppy seed to coconut. Children make their own “magic” bean bag necklace. A hike to search for seeds completes the program.

When: September - October and April - June Key Concepts: life cycles, plant adaptations, habitat, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence


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Let’s Talk TurkeyGrades: K5 - 1Length: 1 ½ hours Fee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsIn the book, Little Tom Turkey by Frances Bloxam, children discover the real lives of wild turkeys. They learn about hens, toms, poults, caruncles, wattles, and snoods using natural artifacts. Children will perform the turkey strut and the turkey call. Each child will create a terrific turkey out of natural objects. A hike to search for signs of turkeys, their food, and other features of fall is included.

When: September - NovemberKey Concepts: animal adaptations, life cycles, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, constructing explanations

Make Tracks for Home Grades: 1 - 5 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsStudents learn about wildlife including their habitat needs: food, water, shelter, and space. Students will see a powerpoint to help identify animal signs and make a plaster cast of an animal footprint before taking a hike to discover animal clues and track stories.

When: September - JuneKey Concepts: animal adaptations, habitat, how animals surviveNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Maple MagicGrades: 1 - 6 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsGo back in time to explore the magic of maple sugaring. Maple sugaring has been done for thousands of years starting with Native Americans. Compare early times with the innovations of metal buckets brought to eastern maple forests by the pioneer farmer and then the modern day farmers use of plastic tubing and efficient boiling techniques. We will study the seasonal sap run by learning about tree physiology with a build-a-tree activity, identify maple, oak and ash trees and then discover the secret of the spile that delivers sweet sap. Children drill and tap a tree then compare the sweet tastes of table syrup and real maple syrup.

When: late February - MarchKey Concepts: measurement, plant physiology, tree identification, Wisconsin historyNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, mathematical thinking, constructing explanations


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Nature’s NeighborhoodsGrades: 1 - 3Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsHabitat is more than a home; it is the place where you find the food, water, shelter, and space you need to survive. Like people, animals and plants get what they need to survive from their “neighborhoods”. Children will explore these natural neighborhoods as they visit forest, wetland, and grassland habitats. Students learn about wildlife as they search for a “Dream Home” and “Groceries” for a variety of local critters.

When: September - October and April - June Key Concepts: adaptations, community, food chains, habitats, Wisconsin wildlifeNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Puppet Show: Canada Goose’s Fall AdventureGrades: K5 - 1 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsIn this original puppet show, children follow Canada Goose as he spends his fall in Wisconsin trying to decide what to do for the winter. Children go on a fall nature discovery hike that helps reinforce Goose’s adventure.

When: September - DecemberKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, life cycle, seasonal changeNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Puppet Show: Weasel’s Winter Coat Grades: K5 - 1 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsA clever but slightly confused Long-Tailed Weasel discovers the benefits of camouflage and winter adaptations in this original puppet show. A seasonal sensory hike engages children in discovery and wonder.

When: January - FebruaryKey Concepts: seasonal change, adaptation, camouflage, habitatNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Puppet Show: Lady Bug’s Spring BreakfastGrades: K5 - 1 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsLady Bug awakens from a winter sleep to discover she is very hungry. She visits her friends in search of her favorite food, aphids. A hike engaging children in discovery and wonder of spring secrets follows this original puppet show.

When: April - mid-MayKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations


“Very helpful and informative staff that were great with children and provided an excellent learning experience.”

Wauwatosa Catholic

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Puppet Show: Willow Pond in SummerGrades: K5 - 2 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsIn this original puppet show, miraculous changes happen to a tadpole as he transforms into a toad. Toad meets many other animals living in and around Willow Pond who are changing and growing faster than you can say “metamorphosis.” A seasonal hike follows the show.

When: mid-May - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, life cycle, seasonal changeNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Snow CluesGrades: K4 - 1Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70 Limit: 60 studentsUsing In the Snow, Who’s Been Here? by Lindsey Barrett George and a representational map, children utilize animal tracks and other clues to see who has been out and about on a snowy day. Feeding habits and seasonal activities of animals are emphasized. Children create an animal sewing card and then go on a hike to discover “Who’s Been Here?”

When: November - FebruaryKey Concepts: animal adaptations, habitats, interactionsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Super SalamandersGrades: K5 - 1Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsThe Salamander Room by Anne Mazer is used to help children learn about what an animal needs to survive and thrive. The life cycle of an amphibian is also covered. A live salamander is brought (if weather permits) for the children to observe. Each child creates a stenciled salamander piece of artwork. The program includes a hike to search for salamander habitats and foods and other signs of the season.

When: September - October and March - June Key Concepts: adaptations, classification, habitat, life cycles, seasonsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Trees and MeGrades: 1 - 3 Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsChildren will create a living tree as they learn how a tree grows. They will hike out to learn how to identify forest trees and discover the many benefits of trees from summer shade to maple sap.

When: September - OctoberKey Concepts: adaptations, forestry, habitats, plant physiology, habitatsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations


“Thank you! The students continue to talk highly of their trip! They loved it!”

Atlas Preparatory Academy

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Programs at a Milwaukee County ParkWater ExplorersGrades: 1 - 4Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70 Limit: 60 studentsStudents will be amazed by the life they find in and by the pond! Children will peer into the private lives of the tiny creatures that are the backbone of the pond food chain as they use scoops and hand-held microscopes to collect and observe macro-invertebrates. Students discover the diversity of plants and animals that live in wetlands along the pond’s edge as they play “Wetland Bingo”. Costumes are used to model the amazing adaptations of aquatic creatures and how everything is connected in the pond food chain.

When: September-October and May-JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, ecosystems, food chainsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations

Web WeaversGrades: K5 – 1Length: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70 Limit: 60 studentsChildren use a room-sized spider web and Eric Carle’s The Very Busy Spider to better understand spi-ders’ weaving and varied use of webs. Supplemental materials emphasize the diversity in size and habitats of spiders. Participants make a spider craft to take home and go on a discovery walk to find spiders and their relatives.

When: September - NovemberKey Concepts: adaptations, habitats, life cyclesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Wiggly WormsGrades: K5 - 1st GradeLength: 1 ½ hoursFee: $4.50 per student; $3.50 per student for schools within Milwaukee County or a minimum fee of $70Limit: 60 studentsWiggle and giggle with worms while exploring their underground world. Linda Glaser’s book, Wonderful Worms has great worm facts that adapt to an appealing felt board story. Children can touch, examine, and measure live worms as well as to create original art with rubber worms and hike to discover worms in the wild.

When: September - November and March - JuneKey Concepts: animal adaptations, decomposition, habitats, recyclingNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, constructing explanations

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Can’t fit in a field trip? Our in-school programs bring nature into your classroom, library, or daycare facility. Programs are hands-on, discovery based and many include an opportunity to see and touch artifacts or live animals.

Multiple programs can be scheduled during a day to accommodate large groups.

Call us at (414) 425-8550 to discuss program opportunities for High Interest Days and Science Night events.

Apple AnticsGrades: K5 – 1Length: 1 1/2 hours, additional 1/2 hour for real apple piesFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelAdditional fee of $1.50 per child for real apple piesLimit: 30 studentsChildren take an imaginary trip around the globe to gather ingredients to bake an apple pie. Marjorie Priceman’s book How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World acquaints children with the fact that their food comes from all over the world before it arrives in the grocery store for them to buy. Children will taste a variety of apples and compare and contrast their findings. You may choose for the children to make a potpourri pie or a real mini apple pie (additional fees apply for real pies).

When: September - NovemberKey Concepts: geography, measurement, seasons, sensesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Programs at Your School

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Programs at Your SchoolAwesome OwlsGrades: 2 - 6Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelAdditional $1.50/child fee for owl pellet labLimit: 30 students Students delve into the nocturnal world of Wisconsin’s owls and discover facts about the feathers hearing, and night flying of these beautiful “Tigers of the Sky.” They learn to listen for owl calls right in their own backyard. An owl pellet lab is available for an addi-tional fee.

When: Year Round Key Concepts: adaptations, food webs, wildlifeNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations; constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

Backyard InvertebratesGrades: 1 - 6Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 studentsStudents enjoy a costume comparison of insects, spiders, and other animals without backbones. Students will discover live creatures as they search through soil and wood samples.

When: September - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, classification, community, food websNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models

Bugs on StageGrades: 1 - 6Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 studentsThis unique program combines two things that are irresistible to kids: theater and nature. Children will put on a puppet show about insects and their creepy, crawly relatives based on the book The Bugliest Bug by Carol Diggory Shields. Some students will be

transformed into “naturally” fashionable invertbrates. Live critters provide an up-close and personal experi-ence for the students.

When: September - October and April - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, classification, food websNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models

Friends UnderfootGrades: 1 - 5Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 students Did you ever want to “dig a hole to China” when you were a kid? Join us as we dig deep into the world beneath our feet. Children will meet chipmunks, ants, earthworms, and more in this interactive, underground adventure. Children will get up close and personal with earthworms or beetles and participate in a variety of activities that allow them to see what it’s like to live in the world beneath our feet.

When: September - November and April - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, food webs, habitat, life cyclesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models

If You Went to a Pioneer School Grades: 1 - 6Length: 1 hour Fee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 studentsTake a step back in time and experience life in a one-room pioneer school. A naturalist in character will conduct a typical day in an early Wisconsin school house. Some of the interactive activities children will do include: writing with quill pens and ink, using slates and slate pencils, playing pioneer games, and learning about classroom “discipline”.

When: September - MayKey Concepts: Wisconsin history NGSS Science Practices: asking questions 23

Programs at Your SchoolLet’s Get GrowingGrades: K5 – 1Length: 1 hour Fee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 students During an interactive telling of Jack’s Garden by Henry Cole children search for and observe plants and seeds. The children take an imaginary journey to the garden that Jack grew. Time is spent learning about what all plants need to survive and observing different types of seeds, from the poppy seed to the coconut. Children make their own “magic” bean bag necklace.

When: September - October and April - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, habitat, life cycles, seasonsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence

Let’s Talk TurkeyGrades: K5 - 1Length: 1 hour Fee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 students In the book, Little Tom Turkey by Frances Bloxam, children discover what the real lives of wild turkeys are like. They learn about hens, toms, poults, caruncles, wattles, and snoods using natural artifacts. Children will perform the turkey strut and the turkey call. Each child will create a terrific turkey out of natural objects.

When: September - NovemberKey Concepts: adaptations, life cycles, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions

One Butterfly...Three Countries Grades: 1 - 5Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 students Children take an imaginary journey with the Monarch Butterfly as they participate in a life cycle story about the Monarch’s travels to Mexico.

When: September - November and April - JuneKey Concepts: insects, geography, lifecycles, migrationNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, carrying out investigations

Paper MakingGrades: 1 - 8Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travel *Additional equipment fee of $1.00 per studentLimit: 20 students

Students learn the process of papermaking through history of fibers and a demonstration using recycled paper fibers. Each child will make one or two pieces of recycled homemade paper. Children learn the importance of recycling while creating a homemade project inspired by creativity and sustainability.

When: September - JuneKey Concepts: art, engineering, world history, recycling, treesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions

Snow CluesGrades: K5 - 1Length: 1 hour Fee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 students Using In the Snow, Who’s Been Here? by Lindsey Barrett George and a representational map, children utilize animal tracks and other clues to see who has been out and about on a snowy day. Feeding habits and seasonal activities of animals are emphasized. Children create an animal sewing card.

When: November - FebruaryKey Concepts: adaptations, classification, habitat, seasonal changesNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations, arguing from evidence, communicating information

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Programs at Your SchoolSssensational SnakesGrades: 1 - 4Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 students“I’m a grassy, grassy, sassy, sassy, flashy, flashy, tail twisting, tail turning, tail snapping green snake.” These fun rhyming words from Libba Moore Gray’s book, Small Green Snake will help introduce children to the world of the often misunderstood snake. Learn about astonishing adaptations and visit with a live snake from Wehr Nature Center.

When: September - October and April - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, community, food websNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations, using models

Super SalamandersGrades: K5 - 1Length: 1 hour Fee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 students The Salamander Room by Anne Mazer is used to help children learn about what an animal needs to survive and thrive. The life cycle of an amphibian is also covered. A live salamander is brought (if weather permits) for the children to observe. Each child creates a stenciled salamander piece of artwork.

When: September - October and March - June Key Concepts: adaptations, classification, habitat, life cycles, seasonsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

Tales of Tracks & Trails Grades: 2 - 5Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 studentsChildren discover the tales told by our wild animal neighbors. The program includes an engaging slide show of animals and their clues, an interactive wildlife mystery story, and an opportunity for each child to

create their own wildlife track guide. When: September - JuneKey Concepts: adaptations, community, food webs, wildlifeNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models, constructing explanations, and arguing from evidence

Web WeaversGrades: K4 - 1Length: 1 hour Fee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 studentsChildren use a room-sized spider web and Eric Carle’s The Very Busy Spider to better understand spiders’ weaving and varied use of webs. Supplemental materials emphasize the diversity in size and habitats of spiders. Participants make a spider craft to take home.

When: September - NovemberKey Concepts: life cycles, habitats, adaptationsNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, constructing explanations

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Programs at Your SchoolWelcome to the NightGrades: 1 - 4Length: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 studentsStudents explore the night through a lively bat story learning about echolocation. Students visit the Bat Lab to study bat adaptations and biology and the Night-time Visitor station to explore owls, fireflies, and flying squirrels.

When: September - JuneKey Concepts: community, adaptations, wildlife, food webNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, using models

Wiggly WormsGrades: K5 - 1st GradeLength: 1 hourFee: $75, mileage charged for out-of-county travelLimit: 30 studentsWiggle and giggle with worms while exploring their underground world. Linda Glaser’s book, Wonderful Worms has great worm facts that adapt to an appealing felt board story. Children can touch, examine, and measure live worms as well as to create original art with rubber worms and hike to discover worms in the wild.

When: September - November and March - JuneKey Concepts: animal adaptations, decomposition, habitats, recyclingNGSS Science Practices: asking questions, carrying out investigations, constructing explainations“Staff is very developmentally appropriate. I even

learned new things. Hands-on, engaging.”

Mrs. W. Manitoba School, Milwaukee

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Getting Here

From the North

From the South

From the East

From the West

Wehr Nature Center9701 W. College Ave.Franklin, WI 53132

Phone: (414) 425-8550Fax: (414) 425-6992

W. COLLEGE AVE.

W. F

OREST HOM

E AVE.

S. 1

08th

ST.

S. 9

2ND

ST.

W. RAWSON AVE.

WH

ITN

ALL

WAY

N . A . T . I . O . N . A . LGOLD MEDAL WINNER

N

Park Land

Shrubs & Trees

Parking Lot

Park Building

Reservable Picnic Area with Shelter, water, and restrooms(No staking–tents allowedonly if sandbagged)

Reservable Picnic Area(Tents allowed)

Oak Leaf Trail(Paved Multi-Use Trail) Trail Segment

Nature Trail

Exceptional Native-Plant Community

Golf Course

Sledding Hill(in season)

Tot Lot

P

P

P

P

P

P

Boerner Gardens (414) 525-5601Wehr Nature Center (414) 425-8550

Pavilion & Picnic Reservations

(414) 257-8005

Parks Information(414) 257-PARK (7275)

countyparks.com

UPDATED MAY ’12

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8

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6

5

7

Golf Clubhouse

Waterfall

BirdBlind

ServiceYard

Archery

To Ross Lodge

WinterSports

AlphaTrail

ServiceYard

BoernerBotanicalGardens

WehrNatureCenter

To PicnicAreas

1–3

WHITNALL PARK

Whitnall Park5879 S. 92 St.

Franklin, WI 53132Unit Office: (414) 425-7303

0 260 520 780 1,040130Feet

PARK ACREAGE: 626.9

Distance around lake: 1.5 mi

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wehr nature center k-12 education program guide … · education program guide wehr nature center...

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