Environment as a Context for Learning
Use of Patterson Park
The mission of Patterson Park Public is to develop well educated, community-minded children by providing high-quality, community-based education that capitalizes on the diversity of nearby neighborhoods and uses the resources of Patterson Park.
Pond Life Study
2nd graders, 5th graders, and 7th graders study pond organisms as part of their Life Science curriculum. Second graders and fifth graders created "model ecosystems" in soda bottles and identified organisms living in the pond. Fith graders used microscopes to identify the smaller organisms resulting in a "field guide" for Patterson Park pond water life.
7th Grade Tree Walk
7th graders follow a "Tree Walk" in Patterson Park on which they learn about the characteristics and natural history of the many species of trees in the park.
5th Grade Field Trip on 'The Snow Boat'
Our 5th grade went on two field trips aboard 'The Snow Boat'. They were on 10/26/12 and 11/21/12. Thhis field trip was in conjunction with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Students tested for turbidity, salinity, and oxygen levels in the water. We also studied maps of the Potapsco River and observed wildlife in their natural habitats. This was all part of the Science aspect of our Colonial Theme. Students are comparing the various ecosystems the colonists had to adapt to from New England to the Southern Colonies.
Sketching Ecosystems
Students sketch the pond and other ecosytems in Patterson Park as part of an Art-Science collaboration. Sketches included labeled drawings of birds (mallard ducks, coots, seagulls,cormorants, etc.), fish (Koi, trout, bluegill,etc.), and plants (reeds, rushes, water lillies, duckweed, etc.).
5th Grade Field Trip to Assateague Island
The following photos were taken on 9/24/12 at Assateague Island as part of the 5th grade Explorers Theme where we also study ecology in Science. Students took part in various activities on the beach side and marsh side of the island. Students collected and analyzed organisms on each side as well as just enjoying the beauty of the island.
Cool the Earth Assemblies
Students helped write and produce a global warming play that was performed for all students in grades K-5. The play educates students in a humerous and exciting way. Our principal, Dr. Kramer played the role of the evil "Mr. Carbon"!
Great Kids Farm Field Trip
Great Kids Farm provides opportunities for Baltimore City school students to understand and participate in every aspect of food preparation – from seed to fork – and prepares them to lead 21st century sustainability efforts.
Middle School Electives
PPPCS Middle School students choose a Monday afternoon elective to participate in a small group activity. Electives that integrate with the natural setting of Patterson Park include Fishing, Archery, Running Club, and "The Green Team".
Green Team Elective
Middle School students can select to be a part of "The Green Team" elective that meets every Monday afternoon during their elective time. The BEC along with Terra Logos, an architectual firm, help lead these meetings. They have just finished developing their PSA (which will be uploaded here at a later date) and are now in the process of conducting an energy audit. The pictures below depicts the team using an infrared camera provided by Terra
Logos. The camera is able to show where heat is produced or lost and is able to help show the effeciency of systems here at PPPCS. They are also responsible for collecting the Cool The Earth trading cards from each of the elementary school classrooms. Students in the Green Team elective will also be conducting energy audits of all classrooms and will design a contest - just like we did last year. They will also be designing energy effecient homes/buildings.
Logos. The camera is able to show where heat is produced or lost and is able to help show the effeciency of systems here at PPPCS. They are also responsible for collecting the Cool The Earth trading cards from each of the elementary school classrooms. Students in the Green Team elective will also be conducting energy audits of all classrooms and will design a contest - just like we did last year. They will also be designing energy effecient homes/buildings.
Math Recycling Lesson
Mr. Heid's 8th graders used recycling as a way to learn about patterns, making predictions, and using graphs.
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The Five Senses at Patterson Park
Ms. Oakley's first graders went into Patterson Park to observe what they saw, heard, smelled and felt. Students filled out an observation chart with pictures clues. Then they came back to the classroom and wrote sensory poems using their observations.
The Port of Baltimore and Terrapin Turtles
Second Grade has scheduled an in-class presentation about the Port of Baltimore and
terrapin turtles. An Outreach and Education Coordinator from the Maryland Environmental Service will be conducting the presentation. This will take place on 4/29/13.
terrapin turtles. An Outreach and Education Coordinator from the Maryland Environmental Service will be conducting the presentation. This will take place on 4/29/13.