Planet Herring Ridge is a residential program for 5th and 6th graders. Students are transported to Planet Herring Ridge and spend four days and three nights investigating the natural environment while learning about their personal values. Crazy characters, skits, hands-on activities and games fill the students' week at Herring Ridge. The program is environmental science and character education based but also incorporates art, English, healthy living, and more. Students will study The Lorax by Dr. Seuss prior to arrival.

The three main components of the program are:

1. Environmental Science

• Forest Ecology - Students learn ecology basics (food web, diversity, species interactions). Teachers may also choose from topics such as terrific trees and animals in the forest.
• Water Ecology - Students learn about the water cycle and water conservation. Teachers get to choose from topics such as wetland ecology and water quality.
• People and the Land - Students learn about local land, food production, and culture during this class. Teachers choose from topics such as resource rescue and an 1800s step back in time program.

2. Character Education

• Student created environmental values statement to take back to the classroom
• Respect for other cultures and people
• Teambuilding
• Crazy characters that challenge their views and values
• Interactive, hands-on games that engage students

3. Positive Life-Changing Experience for students

• Learning responsibility for self and others
• Making new friends
• Adult role models outside of school
• A connection to Herring Ridge and the Brushy Mountains
• Living away from home for the week builds independence
• Fostering a students interest in science for years to come

Evening programs include a play presented by Herring Ridge staff, an environment and technology problem-solving activity, and Saving The Truffula Seed-a large group game in which students use the knowledge they have gained throughout the week to defeat the Self-ler, our villain.

Students will receive a journal and be responsible for assignments in the journal that build on the lessons learned each day. This entire program has been created based on North Carolina standards for grades 5-6. This program can accommodate up to 90 students at a time.

For Teacher Planning Packet, please click here »

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