NATURE JOURNAL EDUCATOR'S HANDBOOK

A handbook taking a lightly scientific approach to observing nature geared toward inquisitive junior scientists from Salmanowitz.

 Part of the Little Monsters Universe (a science homeschool curriculum developed by the author, who’s a science teacher), this handbook is a compilation of activity pages and lesson prompts for a general nature education. The book is divided into four parts: nature journaling fundamentals, field sketching, recording scientific information, and a final section called “Putting It All Together.” Part 1 is all introductory activities that are built around using the five senses to learn about the nature in one’s immediate area. Part 2 gives easy-to-read instructions and specifically mentions that when recording nature pictorially, the goal is not to exactly replicate what’s in front of the sketcher. The rest of the journal focuses on recording quality scientific information, and STEM topics are also covered, including how to measure, count, and estimate, as well as other documentation skills. These topics are expertly reinforced by helpful weather charts to fill out before each activity, helping to normalize longitudinal data gathering. The last part encourages the young scientist to connect everything they’ve recorded and reflect on all of their work, likening the end result to a storybook about the natural world. Salmanowitz includes thoughtful reflection questions rooted in social-emotional learning such as describing how the young scientist feels when observing nature itself or their own scientific illustrations. Included also are clear, concise lessons to give kids: for example, explaining how important drawing to scale is, as well as the importance of spatial awareness, depth, and value. Other well-conceived activities include bark and leaf rubbings, guided writing prompts, and even a lichen hunt. At the end of the handbook is the Green Promise Pledge for Nature, which gives a list of tips to empower the reader to live more sustainably.

An expertly crafted science education curriculum developed by an educator for educators.