3rd Grade Overnight Program

OPERATION ADAPTATION

If there are two classes, the group will be split in two but will experience the same Operation Adaptation hike. One group will start the loop at the wash, and the other will start up-desert. This activity will take about 60 mins and is about ½ a mile long, with 6 short activities happening along the way. It is important that teachers are present on the hike to assist with class management. Participation from the chaperones and teachers are expected throughout the entirety of the program.

ACTIVITY CENTERS

There will be 5 afternoon activity centers led by Cooper staff and interns.  Activity Centers have been previously selected by staff for this trip with the intent that students will continue learning about adaptations. Chaperones should join students and engage in afternoon activities, while teachers may be asked to assist in center management and can also use this time to prep and pass out snacks to students.

Human vs plant water usage - Students have mini aquifers, pumps, and a root diagram to discuss and participate in the different uses of water in the desert.

Prickly pear paint party - Students discuss the prickly pear cactus and do a creative paint project using the fruit dye.

Desert poetry - Students write poems as different desert plants that will be emailed to the teacher after.

Name of the Game - Students go over the adaptation vocab through a variety of games like charades and pin the roots on plants.

Franken-plant - Students put together their own desert adapted cactus as a small team and explain the adaptations.

CABINS & CAMPFIRES

After a full day of outdoor experiences, students are ready for dinner and activities around the campfire.  Camp Cooper's amphitheater and firepit provide the perfect venue for stories, songs, stargazing and of course, s'mores.  Dinner can be coordinated and prepared by teachers and parent volunteers, or can be catered by TUSD for a per person fee. 

Download TUSD Catering Menu