The art of tracking and trailing is a lifelong endeavour that begins with this program. Everywhere animals go, they leave behind subtle signs of their presence. In this dynamic program, students learn the language of animal feet and their unique gait patterns. With time dedicated to exploration, students use the power of observation and problem-solving to detect patterns, read signs, and interpret animal activity. From footprints to stick chews, there are always mysteries to unravel.
Environment Centre Program
Tracking and Trailing
Resources:
Want to know more about Canada’s diverse wildlife? Take a look at The Canadian
Wildlife Federations’ ‘Hinterland Who’s Who’.
https://www.hww.ca/en/index.html
Post Visit Activities: (if applicable)
Animal Track Detective (K-1)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xz02S-CizAU
• Hands-On Measurement with Animal Footprints
https://kindergartencafe.org/hands-on-measurement-with-animal-footprints
• Tracking: A Beginner’s Guide
https://learningwithoutdoors.com/learningactivities/https/tracking-how-to
Curriculum Links:
Science & Technology
• Grade 1 - Life Systems: Needs and Characteristics of Living Things
• Grade 2 - Life Systems: Growth and Changes in Animals
• Grade 4 - Life Systems: Habitats and Communities
• Grade 6 - Life Systems: Biodiversity
• Grade 11 - Biology: Diversity of Living Things, Animals - Structure and Function
Health and Physical Education
• Grades 1-8: Active Living and Movement Competence
* Curriculum links for this program are based on “The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 1-8: Science and Technology“
Feel free to contact us about modifying programs to suit older or younger students.
Pathway to Stewardship & Kinship
Landmarks
4. Visit a Favourite Outdoor Place Each Week
6. Play in Nature Often
7. Share Books, Songs, and Games about Nature
9. Visit Your Own Special Outdoor Place
11. Celebrate Each Season in the Year
12. Meet the Friends in your Neighbourhood
13. Travel on a Familiar Route
14. Learn New Outdoor Activities
15. Try: Gardening, Feeding Birds, Finding Critters, Exploring
17. Try a New Sport, Craft, and Survival Skill
19. Explore Biodiversity
22. Become a Citizen Scientist
25. Develop Three New Outdoor Skills
30. Describe Your Ecological Self
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
