Last updated: January 12, 2023
Lesson Plan
Meet Your National Parks - Grades 2, 3, and 4
Download Lesson Plan
256KB
- Grade Level:
- Upper Elementary: Third Grade through Fifth Grade
- Subject:
- Science
- Lesson Duration:
- 60 Minutes
Essential Question
Why do we use the arrowhead emblem (and 5 parts) to represent the National Parks?
Objective
After completing this program students will be able to:
1. Name the two national parks located in their County.
2. Explain what elements are found on the NPS arrowhead emblem and what they represent.
3. Identify at least two different animals that can be found in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
4. Identify a giant sequoia tree by its cone and by its bark.
5. Recognize the difference between natural and man-made land-scapes and understand the importance of each.
Background
This program introduces students to a uniquely American invention: the national park. It explores what national parks protect by examining the elements found on the National Park Service arrowhead emblem.
Preparation
Prior to your scheduled meeting with the ranger, download the pre-visit activity and share with your students. Review the ranger lesson plan for themes to discuss with your class before the visit but do not teach the lesson. All lesson plans are available on the website. After the visit, download and review post-visit activities with your class. Provide feedback to the rangers about what your class enjoyed and how we can improve.
Materials
Download 2nd Grade Pre-Visit Activity
Download 2nd Grade Post-Visit Activity
Download 3rd Grade Pre-Visit Activity
Download 3rd Grade Post-Visit Activity
Download 4th Grade Pre-Visit Activity
Download 4th Grade Post-Visit Activity
Procedure
Incorporate Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks into your lesson plan.
- Browse the site for the appropriate program/field trip for your classroom.
- Follow the instructions to choose a program and make a formal request.
- Confirm with park ranger times/dates. We will contact you after receiving the request.
- Prepare for your classroom visit or field trip by downloading pre-visit activities.