Exploring Matanuska Glacier with Young Learners: A Week-Long Adventure

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on an exciting adventure to Matanuska Glacier with your kindergarten through 2nd-grade kids? This week-long lesson plan is packed with engaging activities, crafts, books, and videos that will prepare young learners for an unforgettable field trip to one of Alaska’s most magnificent natural wonders. Let’s dive into the details of this educational journey!

Day 1: Introduction to Glaciers

Discussion We kick off our adventure by introducing the concept of glaciers. Show pictures and discuss what glaciers are and where they can be found. Use a globe or map to locate Alaska and Matanuska Glacier.

Story Time Read “The Little Polar Bear” by Hans de Beer to the class. This charming story will spark curiosity about polar regions and the icy habitats of polar bears.

Video Watch the video “Glaciers for Kids” by FreeSchool. This age-appropriate video uses colorful animations and real-life footage to explain glaciers in simple terms.

Craft Activity Create a glacier scene using cotton balls for snow, blue paper for ice, and construction paper for mountains. This hands-on activity helps solidify their understanding of glaciers.

Day 2: Safety and Preparation

Discussion Discuss why safety is important when visiting a glacier. Talk about the warm clothing and safety gear needed for the trip.

Show and Tell Show toy versions or pictures of safety gear (hats, gloves, boots, helmets). Let kids try on some of the items if available.

Interactive Activity Dress up a doll or figure with safety gear, explaining each item’s importance.

Story Time Read “If You Were a Kid Exploring the North Pole” by Josh Gregory. This story takes children on an imaginary adventure, emphasizing the importance of preparation and safety.

Weather Chart Activity Introduce a simple weather chart and discuss typical glacier weather. Have kids take turns checking the weather and marking it on the chart.

Day 3: Exploring and Respecting Nature

Discussion Talk about how we can take care of nature and why it’s important to respect the environment during our visit to Matanuska Glacier.

Nature Walk Take a short nature walk around the school, focusing on observing and respecting the environment. Collect small natural items (leaves, rocks) to discuss and display.

Story Time Read “Over in the Arctic: Where the Cold Winds Blow” by Marianne Berkes. This interactive book introduces children to the animals living in the Arctic.

Group Activity Create a big class poster of Matanuska Glacier, with each student contributing a drawing or piece of information they’ve learned.

Video Watch a video about Matanuska Glacier, showing real footage of the glacier and its surroundings. This visual experience will excite kids about the upcoming trip.

Day 4: Creative Activities and Review

Discussion Review what has been learned about glaciers, safety, and respecting nature.

Creative Writing and Drawing Have kids draw a picture of themselves at Matanuska Glacier and write (or dictate) a short story about what they would see and do there.

Craft Activity Make “ice” sculptures using clear soap bars or ice cubes and small figurines to represent wildlife.

Story Time Read Who Lives near a Glacier?: Alaska Animals in the Wild by Susi Gregg Fowler

Day 5: Field Trip and Reflection

Visit to Matanuska Glacier Visit Matanuska Glacier with the kids. Ensure all safety measures are in place and make the experience educational and fun.

Post-Trip Discussion Back in the classroom, discuss the trip. Ask kids what they saw, what they liked best, and any interesting things they learned.

Reflection Activity Have kids draw a picture or write about their favorite part of the trip. Create a classroom display with their drawings and stories.

Celebration Celebrate the successful trip with a “glacier” themed snack (like blue Jell-O or ice pops) and sing a song about nature or adventure.

Conclusion

This week-long lesson plan is designed to engage young learners with interactive and hands-on activities, making the concept of glaciers and the importance of environmental awareness both fun and educational. By the end of the week, your kids will be well-prepared and excited for their visit to Matanuska Glacier, ready to explore and respect this incredible natural wonder. Happy adventuring!