Fall 2023
Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall
Welcome to Compass Fall Outdoor School!
On our first day of outdoor class, armed with waterproof backpacks, we eagerly ventured into the fall garden to admire the changing leaf colors. Our mission? Find and match red, orange, yellow, and brown leaves, making our outing an exciting leaf color matching game. We got creative with intricate leaf patterns and encountered surprises like catfish and turtles.
Amidst our garden exploration, we discovered leaves of various shapes and sizes. We also dove into our new outdoor journals, filled with destination info, a welcoming poem, a handy adventure checklist, and a student progress section. A day combining natural beauty with new tools for our outdoor adventures.
Sep. 9
Animals in Fall
Living things may make physical and behavioural changes to survive in different conditions.
Today we explored the animal behaviours in the fall! Our key learning objectives included understanding how living things adapt to different conditions, with a focus on hibernation, migration, and adaptation. We embarked on an exciting journey to discover the perfect hibernation spot, building caves or dens for animal friends while contemplating how to stay warm during the winter. We also role-played as bears foraging for food before their long slumber. We also delved into the world of bird migration through interactive activities, like forming the V-shape with string, they experienced the efficiency of this formation and how it helps birds on their journey south. We hope we'll continue to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature.
Sep. 16
Harvest Time
What type of fruits and vegetables do we harvest in the fall?
On the final day of our September unit, we visited the UBC Farm to explore the types of fruits and vegetables that are typically harvested during the fall season and where they grow. During our visit, we discovered apple trees, pumpkins, potatoes, kale, tomatoes, and various other vegetables. We also examined whether these fruits and vegetables grow above or beneath the soil, much like the story we discussed earlier. We also made predictions about which vegetable was the heaviest and which was the lightest. We used a balance scale to measure the mass of these fruits and vegetables accurately. Then, we arranged all the different produce in order based on their weight.
Even with the rain, everyone was brimming with enthusiasm, and we thoroughly enjoyed our adventure of exploration and learning. We're looking forward to have more fun in October!
Sep. 23
Fluffy Clouds
Where raindrops take a nap before falling to the ground?
This past Saturday, the sun was shining brightly, prompting us to delve into the fascinating world of clouds. Armed with pictures of clouds, we let our imaginations soar. Some of us drew dinosaurs, while others sketched monster trucks. However, despite the sunny weather, we only noticed a scarcity of clouds in the sky that day – just a few lonely wisps. We used our "cloud spotter" and found out it was a tiny, lone cirrus cloud. No worries, though, as we wrapped up the day by crafting our own clouds from cotton balls. Drawing inspiration from the cloud types we'd explored, each friend fashioned their favourite variety. At the end of the class, everyone took home their cloud spotter. Hopefully, they can find more different kinds of clouds and have a joyful time with their parents.
Oct.07
Mud Mud Glorias Mud
A playground where our boots leave happy footprints
Nature serves as our finest classroom, where treasures abound in every corner. Even the simplest mud holds the essence of childhood joys and memories. This past Saturday, we rendezvoused with a versatile playmate—mud! Delving into the world of experimentation, we used measuring cups to explore different combinations of soil and water, discovering the unique qualities of the mud we created. Employing various "recipes," we fashioned food with mud, seamlessly blending it with elements from nature. In the process, we practiced following sequences and delving into a bit of math, all while unveiling the enchanting allure of art within the nurturing embrace of nature.
Oct.14
Where is the wind
Getting Cozy with Fall Breezes
Our Fall Outdoor Class this week was all about the wind. You know, that invisible force that makes fall feel, well, like fall. We took the class to the beach, where the cool breeze was the star of the show, reminding us that summer was officially over.
The kids didn't just sit around and chat about it, though. No way! They grabbed paintbrushes and created fall wind art on canvas. And that's not all. They also got crafty and built their very own windmills.
This class was like a cozy chat with an old friend - the wind - helping us appreciate the changing seasons and get creative with it.
Oct. 21
We're going on a pumpkin hunt
I'am not scared. Are you?
Halloween is just around the corner. Last week's outdoor class brought us to the enchanting forest, and our teacher led us on a spooky scavenger hunt, captivating us with a dramatic performance. From small monster tree holes to poisonous mushrooms and hidden spiders, we discovered the secrets of this mystical realm.
After snack time, the forest came alive with excitement as we uncovered hidden treasures. The little monster surprised us with pumpkins hidden in the grass, treetops, and holes in the trees, making it a Halloween adventure to remember. We had a spooktacular time in the magical woods.
Oct.28
Patterns of Nature
Did you find the pattern?
Autumn leaves are textured like delicate embroidery and shimmer in the sunlight with a golden sheen. Fallen leaves create different textures on the ground and they are part of the natural cycle.
On this Saturday, we were immersed in the wonderful world of nature together, listening to the stories of those textures and feeling the unique charm of life. Whether they are as delicate as autumn leaves, as tough as tree bark, or as beautiful as shells, each element contributes a unique piece to the palette of nature. Step into this outdoor class together and let's be a part of the splendor of this canvas and leave our mark.
Nov.04
Patterns of Nature
Did you find the pattern?
Halloween is just around the corner. Last week's outdoor class brought us to the enchanting forest, and our teacher led us on a spooky scavenger hunt, captivating us with a dramatic performance. From small monster tree holes to poisonous mushrooms and hidden spiders, we discovered the secrets of this mystical realm.
After snack time, the forest came alive with excitement as we uncovered hidden treasures. The little monster surprised us with pumpkins hidden in the grass, treetops, and holes in the trees, making it a Halloween adventure to remember. We had a spooktacular time in the magical woods.
Nov.04
Native Species：Pinaceae
Our learning space under the trees
This week was an exciting adventure as we explored Pacific Spirit Park to encounter Vancouver's Pinaceae residents: Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar, and Western Hemlock. Used our "tree identify window," we checked out the unique characteristics of each tree. And Then we learned about the tale of mice and Douglas Fir, and find Douglas Fir cones independently. Finally, we embraced the challenge of measuring the colossal trees, using our arms and bodies as makeshift rulers. Some tree even required of five friends just to encircle them. As we bid farewell to the park, each of us carried home our "tree identify window," to continue our exploration and share our newfound knowledge with our parents.
Nov.18
Natures Builders
Who lives there?
This week's lesson immersed us in the fascinating world of animal architects—creatures that craft their own homes in various shapes and forms. We were diving into the unique habitats created by different species, shedding light on the skills and techniques employed by nature's builders.
We explore the various ways animals build their homes, from weaving and digging to utilizing natural elements, and also discuss whether these builders use tools or rely entirely on their innate abilities.
Nov.25
Garden in the city
Urban Oasis: Exploring Bloedel Conservatory
Hey, this week, we hit up Bloedel Conservatory—this chill spot in Queen Elizabeth Park that's basically a secret garden under a massive glass dome. Skipped the usual classroom gig for guided tours and hands-on workshops, soaking up the plant and bird vibes, and realizing why it's crucial to keep nature part of our city rhythm.
As we wrapped up, it wasn't just about the pretty flowers and the symphony of chirps (although, yeah, that was something). It hit us that nature throws a wild party right in the heart of our city. Bloedel, you're the reminder that beauty's around every corner, even in the midst of our urban hustle.
Dec.02
Biodiversity
Nature Unveiled: Our Journey into Biodiversity Wonderland
Hey folks! Our class hit up the Beaty Biodiversity Museum in UBC this week—talk about a nature jackpot! Picture this: 20,000 square feet of awesomeness showcasing everything from buzzing insects to chirpy birds. And yup, there's a massive 26-meter blue whale skeleton hanging out, plus dinosaur footprints from the BC Cretaceous era. The global buffet of fossils, mammals, reptiles, and plants is the real deal.
But it's not just a visual feast; Beaty's big on understanding. With interactive sessions, rad tours, and education that turns you into a biodiversity superhero, we left feeling responsible for our planet's awesome variety.
Our brains are buzzing with cool facts, and we've got the pics to prove it! From bugs up close to jaw-dropping panoramas, our class album is like a biodiversity scrapbook. Next, we're taking the Beaty vibes into our lessons, connecting the dots and diving into biodiversity mysteries.