Sixth graders at A.C. Reynolds Middle School donned their hiking shoes and joined officials from the US Forest Service (USFS) for a full day of exploring the natural beauty of Western North Carolina.
This opportunity was a perfect way to connect students with nature, and learn from professional scientists at Bent Creek Experimental Forest. Students learned about the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) problem that is plaguing many trees in the region. HWA is an insect that is native to Asia, and attacks the North American Hemlocks.
“Students were able to learn directly in the field how the scientists are researching various and potential solutions for HWA,” said science teacher Kate Whittier. “The second part of this field trip was led by a scientist from Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards. The kids learned from Leandra Taylor about her research with whooping cranes. We enjoyed a beautiful hike through Bent Creek.”
Researchers led students on a data collection project where they were able to measure the height and diameter of trees, the amount of adelgid on the branches, and the amount of new growth.
“We are currently studying ecology and are learning about ecosystems,” Mrs. Whittier said. “Students will use the information collected to create an interpretive sign for the Bent Creek site.”
Mrs. Whittier said this field trip was a result of the work she did in the Kenan Fellow STEMworks program.
“Over the summer, a group of science teachers from western NC met with industry partners in the hopes of creating a project based learning experience,” she said. “I chose the USFS and Bent Creek as our project site because of its proximity to our school and the fact many of our students have never been there.”
This year Mrs. Whittier has focused on exposing the students to a variety of hands-on experiences centered around science.
“I want the students to engage in their natural curiosity of the world and understand how all parts of science are connected with that world,” she explained. “I want them to take what we are learning this year and continue wanting to explore the world of science and become lifelong learners of science.”
