First Through Fourth Graders Participate in Field Studies

In May and June, most of French International’s Lower School students experienced hands-on learning through their field studies.

First-grade field studies took place on campus, focusing on connections with nature in indigenous culture. Clifton, Christine, and Thomas Bruno, members of the Wasco community, spent the day on campus, sharing their expertise and culture with the students. They started the day by speaking about the importance of salmon, and then the classes broke into rotating stations. Groups collected leaves and herbs from our forest to make tea, learned how to weave baskets, and used nature to make their own games.

Second-graders visited Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge for their field studies experience. They learned about the animals and plants at the refuge and how to care for the environment. The group took a hike around the refuge identifying different plants and animals.

Third-grade field studies included a three-day trip to the Oregon coast. The students stayed at Rockaway Beach and studied oceanography and the area's flora and fauna. They also visited the Cape Meares Lighthouse and Tillamook Creamery and spent time at the beach. The trip also included classic camp activities like making smores, playing games, and spending time in cabins.

In fourth grade, students spent four days in central Oregon on their field studies trip. hey visited the Sunriver Observatory and the High Desert Museum. They went hiking to observe the differences in landscape and did land art while studying the high desert. They went kayaking, learned archery, and played games with camp staff.

As part of the Program pillar of the Strategic Plan, French International continues to align science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) across the grade levels. Field studies experiences have evolved into grade-level-specific experiences that enhance what students have learned during the year. As students get older, their field studies experience becomes more involved, preparing them to be successful as they grow. Field studies also align with our Presence pillar as we work on building our STEAM network and establishing connections around the state.