Wonderful Wetlands in oakley

Eighty third and fourth grade students from Vintage Parkway Elementary in Oakley explored the wetland just beyond their school yard with California Waterfowl on October 27, 2008.  The students spent the day surrounded by hands-on experiences which built their knowledge of California’s wetland plants and wildlife. 

From the moment students arrived until the minute they left, their day was packed with excitement.  “I can’t believe we saw a hawk.  It was so exciting!  I wish I can go again in fourth grade,” third grader Jose` exclaimed.  Being out in the field gave each student the opportunity to be a real life biologist and conduct research to help build his or her wildlife and plant knowledge.  Students were taught how to use binoculars, look for signs of animal life, and how to identify plants and their adaptations.  Each student kept a journal for the day, just as real biologist, recording notes and drawing pictures of specimen. 

The wetland visit enabled every student to feel triumphant about their new found knowledge of wetlands in their community.  Many students even expressed interest in sharing what they learned, “Thank you for teaching us how to discover animals and bugs.  I want to show my family and friends real soon,” third grader Angie shared.  Seeing the students’ excitement and knowledge grow so much in one day left Cal Waterfowl and Vintage Parkway teachers feeling triumphant as well.

This free experience was hosted by Cal Waterfowl in partnership with Cal Waterfowl member Kim Ambrosino and Vintage Parkway Elementary.  Mrs. Ambrosino secured a generous grant from Hewlett Packard enabling her students to get hands-on science education and technology skills.  If you are interested in an experience like this with your students please contact us at (916) 648-1406 or cwaeducation@calwaterfowl.org.