Units of Study / Activities

Units of Study

Wildlife
Students will be given the opportunity to explore wildlife in a "hands-on" environment as they observe, study, and handle reptiles, Madagascan Hissing cockroaches, and various other animals. Many misconceptions will be dispelled about these beneficial and often misunderstood animals. While investigating animal pelts, skulls, tracks, and scat reproductions, students will be introduced to carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores.


Stream Analysis
By observation, sampling, and the use of test kits, students will become familiar with stream characteristics while exploring a small stream ecosystem. Students will collect "critters" and conduct a macro-invertebrate count.  Tests will be conducted to determine abiotic factors such as dissolved oxygen, nitrates, pH, and water temperature. Food chains will be discussed. This unit may include investigations and comparisons between a stream, spring, and lake ecosystem which are all located on site.


Forest Ecology
By identifying characteristics such as leaves, flowers, fruit, and bark, students will be introduced to the common tree species found within a temperate deciduous forest. Tree measuring techniques will be addressed during this EXPLORATION SESSION. Students will be taught to use an identification "tree key". Herbacious, shrub, and canopy layers will be identified. Uses and misuses of the forest, wild edibles, and endangered species will be discussed. Participants will gain an appreciation for Tennessee's biodiversity.

Character traits emphasized throughout this EXPLORATION SESSION will include respect, responsibility, caring, and citizenship.


Orienteering
Students will be introduced to the concept of maps and orienteering with a compass. Map terminology will be taught. While "Putting Fred in the Red Shed" and finding "hidden treasures", students will learn compass skills. In addition, participants will explore simple geometric figures with a compass. Learning to use a compass builds self-reliance and self-confidence.


Lake Exploration/Canoeing
Water and canoe safety will be introduced. Students will learn the six parts of a canoe, five parts of a paddle, and ten canoe safety rules. Instruction will be given on proper methods of boarding, paddling, and disembarking a canoe. Student pairs will discover the importance of communication and teamwork while working toward a common goal. All participants will wear personal floatation devices. Paddle boats and kayaks are also available.


Team-Building Initiative Course
During this group activity, students will learn to trust themselves and their own abilities, as well as to trust others. Self-confidence, self-reliance, resilience, and group interaction skills will be developed while participating in low rope/ recreational challenges. This EXPLORATION SESSION encourages cooperation, communication, problem solving, and teamwork in a physically safe environment.
 

Activities

Group and Character Building
A variety of innovative hands-on activities that encourage teamwork, creative problem solving, communication, character development, decision making and trust.

Woodworking
Students will learn about the safe operation of woodworking equipment as they cut, sand, and paint a wooden turtle in our Woodworking Shop. There will be a small additional charge per student for supplies.

Crafts (Recycling)
While creating Clyde The Turtle, our camp mascot, students will learn about how they can "Save Our Planet" by using the 3-R's (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle). Each student will need to bring an empty two-liter plastic bottle for this activity.

Leather Crafts
Participants will be introduced to various leather-working tools as they design and decorate a leather project. The following items can be made for a small additional charge: coin purse, key chains, dog collars, and belts.

Archery
A brief history of the bow and arrow will be taught. Students will learn the parts of the bow and arrow. The importance of wearing an arm guard and how it should be worn will be emphasized. Before students have an opportunity to participate in archery, safety rules and proper methods for shooting a bow and arrow will be discussed.

Riflery
Students will be taught the parts of a rifle, shooting safety rules, and range commands. Firing at targets will be done from a prone position. The rifles (.22 Bolt Action Rifles) are locked and chained into position limiting the direction and area in which they can be fired.

Muzzle Loading
A brief history of the musket and how it was used during pioneer days will be addressed. Students will learn the parts of a musket and understand how it works. Opportunities will be given for participants to load and fire a musket.

Swimming
During the month of May, schedule options offered will include swimming. Students will be given an opportunity to swim. Certified life guards will be on duty at the pool. Alternate recreational activities are available for non-swimmers.