Debbie's Weblog

Geocaching is a great activity for all ages. Whether parents want to explore nature with their children or teachers want to activate the learning environment with hands-on experiences, I think that there's a geocache adventure for just anyone. The key is to plan ahead and think about activities that will interest and motivate children and young adults.  For example, you might do a geocache in the spring or summer and bring along a wildflower guide.

Geocaching, in my opinion, wakes up the senses to the beauty of the world.  As the students explore nature, they need to look, listen, smell, and touch.  Look for the small details that make the world interesting.  No matter where you are, there are fascinating things to learn.  How authentic can a lesson get?  Looking for plants, animals, insects, listening to the wind, perhapst he water. 

A teacher can create connections that can go beyond the ?treasure hunt.? For example, the students may identify wild flowers, mushrooms, animal tracks, rocks, etc.  Ask them to select a rock that they will later paint or photograph a scene for a writing assignment.  Also, this project can be the base for a ?cleanup,? generating discussions on how to save our planet and the environment. (I just did a unit on volunteering work in Spanish and we went around the school grounds identifying nature while we were cleaning!). 

To create a historical and cultural connection, the students can look for evidence of early settlers (of course, it needs to be along a canyon).  Students can learn about ancient people, interpret findings and create their own paper (I did this activity with my older son when he was much younger ? it was a lot of fun!).  Also, consider creating a cultural cache filled with items reflecting the area such as native instruments that students could try.  Why not incorporate a small recording with native music and stories while you are at it?

Something that I believe is important to keep in mind is to consider small group activities within the large group.  It is more fun if each student has a specific task or responsibility.  For example, in groups of three (my favorite) you might have a photographer, a log book keeper and a gps user.  They can trade responsibilities so they all get a chance to participate.

The possibilities are endless!  Although, geocaching is something that we (as a family) have done in a small scale, I could easily incorporate it into my classes.  All I need is to get my hands into some large funding and buy the equipment necessary for the class.  Is it possible?