Rattlesnake Mountain Hike with Natural History (Pok-O Patch)
Students approach the peak on a picturesque old logging road closed to motor vehicles. Along the way, instructors discuss the history of the surrounding land and the current impact logging has had on the delicate ecosystem. The last quarter of the hike follows a steep, rocky trail to the top. The view from Rattlesnake is one of the best in the area, encompassing Lake Champlain, the Adirondack High Peaks, Burlington and the Green Mountains of Vermont. This panorama will provide the backdrop for a geological lesson on the formation of Lake Champlain and Long Pond.
Science Standards 4.3, 4.7; Social Studies Standard 3.1

Weather
Students measure the wind and observe and discuss the current conditions, using instruments located in our weather station, including a barometer, hygrometer, Beauforts Scale, thermometer, and precipitation gauge to predict the day’s weather. Students also forecast weather using cloud identification. They then record their data and report their findings to their classmates at breakfast.
Math Standards 4.1, 4.7; Science Standards 4.1 4.7

Sensory
A student favorite, this class begins with an introduction to the five senses through hands-on activities. Participants will then have an opportunity to follow the sensory trail while blindfolded and in silence. The activity ends with an instructor-lead debrief in which the students can discuss lessons learned when they were unable to use their dominant senses. this This class pairs well with Survival or Ecology.
Science Standards 1.2, 4.3

Nature Walk
A guided tour of our nature trail network accompanied by an informal discussion. Varied trees along these trails are marked with interpretive signs. Topics which may be covered include animal tracks and scat, the natural history of the Champlain Valley, land use in Adirondack Park, local flora, logging, and forest fires.
Science Standards 4.3, 4.7; Social Studies Standard 3.1

Winter Ecology
Students explore the forest in winter. Using observation, simulation games, and animal identification, students investigate topics including adaptation, hibernation, and winder tracking.
Science Standards 4.1-7; Social Studies Standard 3.1

Wildlife Ecology
Through discussion and simulation games, students learn about interrelationships found in a forest ecosystem. Topics include food chains, predator-prey relationships, resource use, and adaptation. 3rd through 8th grades only.
Science Standards 4.1-7; Social Studies Standard 3.1

Pond Ecology
On the banks of Long Pond, students use chemical tests, direct observation, and catch-and release studies to become acquainted with pond’s ecosystem. Topics include watersheds, water quality, acid rain, and biological integrity.
Science Standards 4.1-7; Social Studies Standard 3.1

Astronomy
Participants will learn under the night sky by constructing a scale model of our solar system, spacing out the planets across the Center’s property. Regardless of the weather, students will learn how to read a star chart and identify key constellations.
Science Standards 1.1, 4.1-3

Global Warming
This class addresses the issue of climate change on both the global and the local level. Students engage in hands-on activities and discussion that help them understand the science of global warming, the effect humans are having on the climate, and what some of the results of the changing climate will be. Concrete steps that students can take in their own lives to reduce their own carbon emissions are also discussed.
Science Standards 1.1, 4.2-7; Social Studies Standard 3.1

Outdoor Ethics
Students will use our 300 acre wilderness to fuel their discussions about the proper and improper way people should interact with their natural surroundings. Camping, wildlife respect, waste disposal and other “Leave-No-Trace” outdoor skills and ethics will be considered. This class is also an extreme weather option, as it can be taught indoors.
Science Standards 1.1, 4.2-7; Social Studies Standard 3.1