Outdoor Learning in Action: JS2–JS4 at Mountsberg

Last week, our JS2 students enjoyed an exciting day of outdoor learning at Mountsberg Conservation Area! The students explored the fascinating world of animal adaptations, learning how animals use their physical features and behaviours to survive and thrive in their environments. Highlights included observing and interacting with different animals, learning about the Mountsberg Reservoir, and even getting an up-close look at real snakes!

One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was hearing the girls reflect on our shared responsibility to care for the natural world. Their thoughtful reflections highlighted a growing awareness of the importance of protecting our environment for future generations, including:

“Mother Nature created the beautiful wildlife, and we have to take care of it.”

 “We are responsible for taking care of the Earth for the people that come after, just like the people who came before us did.”

JS3 students enjoyed an exciting day of exploration and discovery at Mountsberg Conservation Area! Guided by their curiosity and an inquiry-based approach, JS3 students had the opportunity to observe animals up close and learn about their physical characteristics, behaviours, and life cycles. From visiting the raptor centre and exploring the farmyard to participating in a discovery walk, meeting snakes, and examining biofacts, the girls asked thoughtful questions, made careful observations, and deepened their understanding of the living world. They also considered how human activities can affect animals and our shared responsibility to protect and care for the natural world. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the environment!

Reflections by Beatrice and Evelyn

Our time at Mountsberg Conservation Area was incredible! It deepened our understanding of habitats and communities, and we also learned about climate change. Some fun things that we did at Mountsberg were hiking, going on a nature scavenger hunt, pond dipping, and playing a food chain/food web game.

When we were hiking, we saw a bunch of animals like squirrels, chipmunks, some insects, and a bluey-black and white salamander. We did a scavenger hunt, which helped us look for plants, animals, food sources, and different habitats. Next, we went to the wetlands to go pond dipping. Pond dipping is when you use a net, find a space, and try to scoop up creatures and vegetation, like fish, tadpoles, and algae. Finally, we played a game called Instincts for Survival, which is a mix of tag and hide and seek. In the game, students were either carnivores, herbivores, or omnivores. The teachers played too and took on the roles of weather, disease, and human impact (good or bad)!

Our time at Mountsberg Conservation Area helped us deepen our understanding of adaptations, diet, food chains, and animal and plant habitats. It was exciting to see what we had been learning in the classroom come to life in nature!