Axe ’Em, Jacks!
SFA Gardens offers educational programs for students designed to get them outside and encourage curiosity about the natural world. Pre-visit packets include information to help educators and their students prepare for their visit to the Brundrett Conservation Education Building and the SFA Gardens. The packet also includes the science Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills - or TEKS - that the activities will cover.
EcoAdventures: A Homeschool Journey into Nature
Homeschool K-12 students are invited to “EcoAdventures: A Homeschool Journey into Nature” from 1-3 p.m. Sept. 16 at the Pineywoods Native Plant Center. Students in grades K-5 will experience nature-based activities that model the life stages of trees, the essential needs of animals, animal adaptations for survival, and methods of plant seed dispersal. Offerings for students in grades 6-12 include analyzing the gene pool of a threatened and endangered animal, conducting research on invasive species of East Texas, and designing an imaginary ecosystem restoration project. The event cost is $5 per student, with no charge for accompanying adults. Registration and payment are required in advance to attend the event. Complete the online registration form.
Wild About Science
This annual fall event provides fourth and fifth graders outdoor nature-based learning adventures. This year’s event is scheduled for Oct. 11 and 25 and will offer students three 40-minute activities to model and explore the journey of a water molecule in the water cycle, the way trees compete to meet their essential needs, the way society uses resources, and the factors that make renewable resources sustainable. Check back for registration information or email sfagardens@sfasu.edu to be added to the contact list for this event.
Bugs, Bees, Butterflies and Blossoms
This annual spring event is for students in kindergarten through second grade. Check back for dates, registration information, and more details for this popular event or email sfagardens@sfasu.edu to be added to the contact list for this event.
Earth Explorations
This new event is for students in third grade and is currently under development. Check back for dates, registration information, and more details or email sfagardens@sfasu.edu to be added to the contact list for this event.
Learning Excursions
In addition to the large educational programs offered each year, SFA Gardens Environmental Educational Programs staff, volunteers and partnering organizations host smaller groups of students for nature-based learning excursions that meet the students’ educational needs.
Educators, scout leaders and others who want to help children engage in science activities in the outdoors should contact SFA Gardens at 936.468.1832 or sfagardens@sfasu.edu to book an educator-led excursion to the gardens.