Nature Study & Ecosystem Exploration
Study ecosystems firsthand by observing wildlife, documenting plant species, and exploring different natural environments. This journey develops scientific observation skills and deepens your connection to the natural world.
Building your Award:
Find Bronze Award examples to support activity planning
(Completed as a team. Participants will work together to plan and complete their journey.)
Example Activity: Nature study expedition exploring different ecosystems, observing wildlife, and documenting plant species.
Example Team Goal: We’ll explore at least 3 different ecosystems (forest, wetland, meadow), document 25+ species observations, practice scientific recording methods, and create a nature guide based on our findings.
Example Assessor/Supervisor: Science teacher, naturalist, or Award Leader
Example SMART Goal: Nature study means lots of hiking! I’m building endurance by doing weekly trail hikes, increasing distance over 13 weeks until I can comfortably hike 12 km in a day.
Example Assessor: Gym teacher, outdoor education instructor, or recreation center staff
Example Log: Hiked 8 km through the conservation area today. Brought my field journal and stopped to sketch plants along the way. My pace is improving and I’m less tired at the end.
Example SMART Goal: I want to think like a scientist! Over 13 weeks, I’m completing an online course in scientific research methods, learning observation techniques, data collection, and analysis.
Example Assessor: Science teacher, biology teacher, or naturalist program coordinator
Example Log: Learned about experimental design and variables today. Started applying it by designing a simple study of bird feeding patterns in my backyard. Understanding why controlling variables matters. Data analysis next.
Example SMART Goal: Our school garden needs help! I’m volunteering an hour each week for 13 weeks to care for the garden by planting, weeding, watering, and maintaining beds throughout the season.
Example Assessor: School garden coordinator, science teacher, or volunteer supervisor
Example Log: Planted lettuce and tomato starts today. The coordinator showed me how to check soil moisture before watering. The garden supplies produce for the school’s cooking classes. Checking for pests next week.
