What is Summer Field Science?

This is a 5-day field experience for current 4th and 5th grade students with an interest in science and nature, hosted by Casper College. Students will spend the week taking field trips around the Casper area learning about the local plants, rocks, animals, and fossils.  We will visit various Casper city parks, Edness Kimball Wilkins State Park, the Alcova/Pathfinder area, and Casper Mountain, among others. Space is limited to 20 spots for this exciting week-long experience.  

History

More than 50 years ago, 3 science teachers from Dean Morgan Junior High School decided they could teach their students more effectively outside, in nature. Dana Van Burgh, Ed Strube, and Terry Logue focused on geology and botany in the beginning, but soon added history and the environment. For over 50 years they have taught secondary students, teachers, oversaw elementary student classes, and led field trips for students of all ages in Wyoming and surrounding states.

The best teaching method turned out to be “hands-on” and “minds-on” science. This was achieved by taking the students to the field where they could see geological structures and wildflowers for themselves. Once there, many questions were asked to get the students thinking about what they were seeing and pique their curiosity. Students identified plants, created plant notebooks, and listened to the lively banter of their team of teachers.

The spirit of Field Science will live on in this year’s summer offering. We will explore different ecosystems by identifying plants, animals, rocks, and fossils and learning how they interact with their environment. In today’s world of so many electronic distractions and so little science taught in early elementary school, it is important to introduce children to nature. Our goal is to get children interested in science while giving them a more thorough understanding of their natural world.

Supply List

As we travel around the Casper area to our field trip sites, the students will need a variety of supplies.  We suggest that each registered student bring the following items to maximize their experience and comfort throughout each day.

What is Provided

• field guides for identifications 

• magnifying loupe and bug boxes

• field notebook

• specimen bags and vials

• some snacks and extra water

What to Bring

• water bottle, snacks, and lunch

• sunscreen and insect repellent 

• sturdy shoes

• backpack (no string packs please)

• pencils, eraser, colored pencils

• hat, rain gear, extra clothes

• shoe box with lid to hold rock specimens

• old phone book for pressing flowers (optional)