January 31, 2010
3rd Grade Visits Crystal Springs
Category: Community News Headlines
Tags: Lower Division, Students
Mims Grifo and Diane Hansen, 3rd Grade teachers at Academy at the Lakes, took our 3rd Graders on an awesome adventure at the Crystal Springs Preserve located in southeastern Pasco County. Crystal Springs Preserve is a 525-acre sanctuary that has been referred to as “Florida’s premier living laboratory.” At Crystal Springs, students learned about the history of the springs and about water conservation and pollution. They hiked across the river boardwalk and across wooded trails to view some of the wildlife. They got an up-close look at some of Florida’s native animals and how these animals help our environment. Students also got a hands-on opportunity to create a watershed that represented their community. Using straws, sticks and other manipulatives, students simulated towns, villages, shopping centers and farms, and they observed how pollution from one part of the watershed could affect the entire watershed. The Crystal Springs experience enhanced students’ understanding of Florida’s natural environment and will help foster a greater appreciation for Florida’s diverse habitats. This heightened awareness will enable students to make environmentally conscious decisions for the rest of their lives.
- Contributors: Mims Grifo and Diane Hansen
