Social Studies

GEOGRAPHY IN THE GARDEN

Scout out the physical and spatial characteristics of the Longwood property in this hands-on program that highlights geographic tools, physical systems, and the relationship between people and places.

LandMark

Explore topography by using maps and other geographic tools that assist with the navigation and interpretation of Longwood’s section of the Earth’s surface. Age appropriate activities challenge students to apply basic mapping skills as well as utilize geographic tools and technologies to locate specific areas in the garden. 

K-2:  Students are introduced to standard map components and skills and complete a string orienteering course.

3-5: Students compare different types of maps. They create a map as a group and practice map reading skills before completing an orienteering course  in small groups.

6-8:  Students identify key components used on maps and discuss how and why maps are useful. They create individual maps and practice map  reading skills before completing an orienteering course in small groups.

Pre/Post Idea Generator for LandMark

National Standards for Geography

• Standard 1: Understands the characteristics and uses of maps, globes, and other geographic tools and technologies
• Standard 2: Knows the location of places, geographic features, and patterns of the environment
• Standard 3: Understands the characteristics and uses of spatial organization of Earth’s surface
• Standard 4: Understands the physical and human characteristics of place

Making Scents

Students discover the relationship between people, plants, and products as they use their sense of smell to participate in sensory activities investigating the multiple uses of specific plants.

K-2: Students use their sense of smell to identify fragrances derived from plants.  Students learn how different cultures use fragrant plants, such as the vanilla orchid and the cacao tree.  Students will walk away with an understanding of the importance of sustaining our rainforest plants.

3-5: Students discover how people around the world use fragrant herbs for healing and aromatherapy.  Students use map skills to identify the origins of specific herbs and create their own mixture of herbal tea based on their sense of smell.

6-8: Students will develop an understanding of how certain cultures around the world use native plants to make everyday products. Students will act as ethnobotonists as they search for fragrant plants in the “Longwood Rainforest” and develop the thought process behind harvesting, producing, and selling products made from natural resources.  

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