Making time in a school day for observation and reflection in nature can be challenging to say the least. Many lessons and presentations can easily fill the daily schedule. But if we closely examine what time immersed in the outdoor environment can offer, we will clearly see the necessity of ensuring this part of our day.
All academic study can be given roots as “extensions” in nature. For example, if you completed a lesson on vertebrates and lizards, skinks, etc., finding the specimen above in the outdoor environment would be a living embodiment of that lesson! This is exactly what happened following one of our classroom lessons — we decided to take a walk for a fresh air break and this fellow was sunning himself in a woodpile. The students were so excited to make this discovery and admired his beauty. We also had discussion concerning — why did this animal need to warm himself in sunlight? What would his food be? Who were his predators? What is his defense? Where is his home? (Note: None of these questions ensued in the classroom!)
Similar examples of fully living academic lessons can be found in all disciplines of study. Math, geometry, art, history, etc., are all reflected in the biodiversity of life.
WILDERNESS MONTESSORI 