Outdoor Education

By. Teresa Marchant

One of my favorite award winning books is Wonder by R.J. Palacio. If you have not read it, do yourself a favor and put it on your summer reading list!  At the end of the book Auggie goes on a class camping trip. As I read this part of the book, my memories of a 5th grade trip flooded to my mind. When I ponder this experience, I am reassured of the importance that background knowledge has on comprehension, vocabulary, and empathy.

Builds Comprehension

Auggie and I were both starting a new school our 5th grade years and neither one of us knew the other kids in our class. In my school, we spent the entire year fundraising and getting “prepped” on what to expect. This week-long adventure was called Outdoor Education. We had to keep a journal and submit it when we returned to school the following week. 

Builds Vocabulary

Just like Auggie, we slept in cabins, ate our meals in the dining hall, and had a memorable time. I learned first hand more about habitats, food chains, first aid, music, dancing, singing, hiking, writing letters, and astronomy. 

Builds Empathy

I learned a lot more about myself, my classmates (and teacher) because we were together on an outdoor adventure. That week has added to my life experiences and allows me to relate to fictional characters in similar situations.

Classroom Conversations Count, too!

I am also reminded that learning should no longer be equated to “seat time” ; it can also be defined by our experiences. I realize that not every child will have opportunities to go on trips like me or Auggie due to financial and family situations. As educators, we need to be prepared to discuss life experiences so students can develop background knowledge, increase their vocabulary, and ultimately improve comprehension.