Worksheet: Junior researchers in the forest
This worksheet (ages 8+) is designed to help youth tap into their curiosity about forests and guide their exploration. Specifically, this worksheet helps youth learn a little bit about how forest scientists use their senses to make observations and ask questions about the forest.
The worksheet provides an example where youth can try out their observation skills to find tree-formed wildlife habitats in the forest.
Being a junior researcher is like being a detective! As a forest detective, you will…
- Make observations using your senses (sight, touch, smell, and hearing. In the forest, we do NOT taste.)
- Record your observations
- Ask questions and try to discover answers and/or patterns
- Work with a team
- Compare differences and similarities
- Use tools (example: measuring tape, magnifying glasses)
- Use your background knowledge
Before you head out to explore the forest, always remember to:
- Never go alone. Always go with a friend or family member, and tell someone at home where you are going. Make sure you always stick together while in the forest.
- Stay on designated trails and bring a map (paper or mobile) with you.
- Watch your step for roots, rocks, or other tripping hazards while you make observations.
- Share the trail! There will be other explorers out in the forest while you are there.
- Prepare for the weather and wear closed-toed shoes.
- Leave it better than you found it. Never leave garbage, tools, or food behind in the forest.
After spending time exploring the forest and working on your junior researcher skills, consider these reflection questions.
- What did you find?
- What did you learn that was new?
- What do you still want to know?
- What would you tell your friend or family about what you learned?
- What do you do with the information you collected?
- How is this information helpful for the forest?
By taking time to reflect, you affirm the observations you made and set yourself up for your next forest exploration adventure.
