OUTDOOR

CLASSROOMS

Outdoor Classrooms: Classes take place in a

natural environment that allows students to be
creative, problem solve, and be independent
while learning. Some teachers set aside an
entire day for the outdoor classroom while
others only use it for a short time each day.
Outdoor Classrooms offer diverse learning
environments that can fit almost any subject.
Ideas include Science with experiences such as
plant growth, erosion, and ecosystems; English
with poetry, imagery, and reading; Math with
patterns and counting; and History with lessons
on Native Americans, Pioneers, and State
History.
Pros: Teaches the importance of the natural
world; emphasizes social and emotional
growth; increases Cognitive Skills and
Improves Test Scores.
Cons: Can be difficult to connect with
Curriculum Standards; Setting up the Daily/
Weekly Schedule; Supervision of Students
around Hazardous Environments; Lack of
Knowledge; Time and Money to
Implement.

Reasons to Have an Outdoor Classroom

Primary Source Experiences Fosters Problem-Solving and

Independence
Allows Students to be Active
Lends to Inter-disciplinary Studies
Makes Learning Multi-Sensory
Real-World Experience and Connections