setting the scene - nacdsetting the scene using interactive models for tactile learners presented...

Setting the Scene

using

Interactive Models for Tactile Learners

Presented by:

Linda Pettit, Environmental Education Specialist

Models and simulations are a great way to attract

attention, capture audience interest, and enhance

understanding and awareness. This session will

provide inspiration and instructions for various

easy-to-make models and simulations for both

educational and outreach programs and

presentations.

Watershed Models

Visual explanation of nonpoint source pollution, runoff and storm drains

How to make your own Watershed Model

Models on a budget: make your own by using plastic

storage containers, wood blocks and duck tape!

Simulating Erosion Predicting the effect of rain

on different land uses and

witnessing erosion first

hand with the Soil Erosion

Simulator.

Exploring Stream Habitats

If you can’t take the students to the river –

bring the river to the students!

How to Make Your Own Dry Stream

Using the Dry Stream in

Community Events

• Attention attracting table covering

• Representation of water pollution

through storm drains

• Habitat scavenger hunt

Streamside

Stories: Interactive lessons

connecting nature

and literature

Simulating the Setting for Stories

A 10’ x 10’ pop up tent can become the setting for a

story by creating a generic backdrop out of felt.

Creating the appropriate props brings the story to life.

Students are involved by adding the characters to the

backdrop as the story unfolds.

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

Students sit inside the pop up tent to feel like they are

a part of the story.

Tri-fold boards make easy interactive

story backdrops on a smaller scale

Again, add characters and props from felt, paper and Velcro

Simple scenery

attracts

attention at

Outreach

Events.

Add an easy

hands-on

activity to send

the message

home.

Trifold boards with simple features make easy settings or scenes For example: Divide animals into habitats with pictures and clothespins

Felt Soil Panel

Visual representation of soil layers, soil

components and life underground.

Another large scale example of setting

the scene to enhance understanding

and change a presentation into an experience!

Ideas for Increasing Involvement

• Students can transform from complacent

listeners to engaged listeners through a variety

of “hooks” or “gimmicks” including:

• hand motions

• thumbs up voting

• eye spy

• BINGO

Linda Pettit

Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District

Linda-pettit@franklinswcd.org 614-486-9613

Environmental Education Specialist