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The Ware Wanderers Guide to the Outdoors

City/State: Ware, MA

Grade(s): 6, 7, 8

Format(s): Field guide: Natural science

Subject(s): English Language Arts

Project Overview

This guide to local outdoor adventure sites was created by middle school students from an after-school program in Ware, Massachusetts.

Based on their personal exploration, and through the use of black and white photographs and written descriptions, students presented information about local rivers, trails and other natural areas. It gave students a genuine reason – a mission – to guide their outdoor activities.

The guide filled a niche, providing truly localized information to community members, including specific directions and recommendations about nearby natural areas and how to access them.

The after school program was sponsored in part by the school.

How This Project Can Be Useful

  • Highlights an after-school/outdoor adventure program that integrates academic skills directly into the content of the program
  • Shows an after-school program that engages students in writing and digital photography
  • Demonstrates a product with an authentic audience – community members
  • Highlights a product that can be replicated anywhere – there is always a need for accurate local information about natural areas
  • Simple product idea and inexpensive production required
  • Writing is kid-friendly, making it accessible to other middle school students

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.6.4
  • I can produce clear and coherent writing that is appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
W.7.4
  • I can produce clear and coherent writing that is appropriate to task, purpose and audience.
L.6.1
  • I can use correct grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
W.8.4
  • I can produce clear and coherent writing that is appropriate to task, purpose and audience.
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