Nature Unhooked Teacher Training

The Discover Nature School (DNS) program, Nature Unhooked, is for 6th-8th grade teachers. Nature Unhooked covers all elements of aquatic ecosystems, from the properties of water molecules to the diversity of aquatic life, and how we conserve and enjoy Missouri’s aquatic ecosystems. It has already been correlated to both the Missouri Learning Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards and are designed to work with teachers' needs and existing curriculums. Nature Unhooked Student Book features illustrations and activities that help middle school students understand, appreciate, and conserve Missouri’s waters. Detailed lessons in the Nature Unhooked Teacher Guide engage students in exploring the properties and effects of water in the environment, interactions in aquatic ecosystems, and the importance of practicing conservation. An optional Project-Based Learning component allows students to address aquatic issues in their community.

During the training, teachers will become familiar with the free teacher guide, student guide, and science notebooks, as well as additional classroom resources such as the Teacher Portal and MDC publications. This will help prepare participants to implement the unit and address any concerns with structured outdoor activities. Participating teachers will also become certified to receive the DNS grant funding for classroom materials and field trips.

The program includes the following items:

• Fully-colored, illustrated student book
• Student science notebook
• Teacher guide with indoor/outdoor activity and lesson plans
• Non-competitive grants for field trips and classroom equipment, including items to build an outdoor classroom Participants should wear appropriate clothing for the weather, as we will be going outside.