Nature Study - the natural way to study science (Conference Session #4)

This month's conference session is a breath of fresh air - yes, we know, it's a cheesy pun! Seriously, though, we are going to join in as Paige discussing what nature study is and how we can add this beneficial tool to our plan for homeschool science.

Just like before, we'll be breaking up this session up into three easily-digested episodes, which we’ll share over a month. But we wanted to create one go-to place for you all to find the all the information for this session. 

And be sure to check out the Elemental Science Virtual Homeschool Science Conference on YouTube to see the other sessions and take a tour of our programs.

Nature Study – The Natural Way to Learn about Science

Come see how to teach science with your backyard, a notebook, and a smartphone.

Session Description: In this session, Paige explains what nature study is and where this method fits into science education. In the process, she shares about nature journals, how to use nature study with the whole family, and what nature study can look like in each of the seasons. You’ll be inspired to add this beneficial tool to your bag of science-teaching tricks!

The natural way to learn about science - Nature Study Session, part 1 {Episode 44}

Takeaway Tidbits

->See this episode's outline and show notes.

Nature study is simply about finding science in nature.

Nature study awakens the scientific side of the brain in the same way a good book awakens the imagination.

Nature study is a tool we have to teach science.

Additional Resources 

See the full conference session - Nature study - the natural way to learn about science.

Check out the following articles for more tips on nature study:

• What is digital nature study?
• Observation is key

The two types of nature study - Nature Study Session, part 2 {Episode 45}

Takeaway Tidbits

Don't be afraid to say "I don't know, let's look it up!"

In your nature journal, always include one fact and the date.

Informal nature study is as simple as . . . Stop, Look, and Listen.

Additional Resources 

See the full conference session - Nature study - the natural way to learn about science.

Check out the following articles for more tips on nature study:

• Friday Fun Day
• What is nature study?

The sufficiency of nature study and a few tips - Nature Study Session, part 3 {Episode 46}

Takeaway Tidbits

Formal nature study is enough on its own when teaching science to younger students.

When doing nature study with older students, you need to add in more information and experiments.

Nature study brings science to life.

Additional Resources 

See the full conference session - Nature study - the natural way to learn about science.

Check out the following articles for more tips on nature study:

• Nature Study with Middle Schoolers
• Living Books and Nature Study Go Hand-in-Hand