Middle School Field Experiences

Austin Nature & Science Center

Paleo Explorers
Students use equipment to measure, dig and calculate as they explore the Dino Pit exhibit.

Pond Ecology: Pond “If” Game
After exploring an on-site pond, students brainstorm and discuss answers to a series of hypothetical questions on pond ecosystems to encourage critical thinking and problem solving.

Birds of Prey
Students will observe the unique hunting adaptations in live raptors.

McKinney Roughs Nature Park

River Trip
Students have a safe, personal experience with the Colorado River by paddling with a team as they learn about river history, the ecology of this riparian system and importance of preserving this natural resource.

Water Conservation and Pollution
Students will work on a watershed model to investigate potential sources of pollution in their community.

H20 Studies
A hands-on, real world experience with chemistry through the use of water testing equipment.

Going Places Scientifically (GPS Mapping)
Students learn to use GPA equipment and plot their collected data on a topographic map.

Rivers Land Feature Chart (Transitional Activity)
This is a great activity for helping students in the transitions between locations and/or programs at McKinney Roughs.

McKinney Falls State Park

Water Quality Study
This field inquiry will excite students as they identify many aquatic invertebrates and make inferences based on their presence or absence.

Field Notes and Nature Sketching
Students will take field notes and sketch items along a hike down the Smith Rockshelter Trail.