Field Trip: Competitive, Predatory, Parasitic: Plant & Animal Interactions: Grades 6 to 8

Plants and animals in an environment interact in a number of different ways, some positive and some negative. These interactions or relationships are integral to the health and functioning of any habitat. By observing and understanding these interactions, we can further understand how an ecosystem functions and how our actions as humans are impacting the environment and altering these relationships. In this program, students will explore the complex relationships between plants and animals through hands-on, outdoor activities and lessons. Students will observe plants and animals in nature and discuss their interactions with each other and determine if these interactions are competitive, predatory, or parasitic. Additionally, students will observe plant and animal artifacts to further develop evidence to support their theories about plant and animal interactions. This program is offered year-round!

Field trips are 2 hour guided programs led by Teacher Naturalists and are held outdoors. Schools are welcome to extend the field trip with an outdoor picnic lunch/snack and a visit to the nature play area. School groups are divided into groups of 15 students with 1 Teacher Naturalist.

Field Trip prices are a sliding scale:

First Group of 15 Students:

• Tier 1 $120

• Tier 2 $150
• Tier 3 $180

Each Additional Group of 15 Students:

• Tier 1 $90
• Tier 2 $120

• Tier 3 $150

Tier 1

• 50% or more students are Economically Disadvantaged Students as reported on recent DESE School Report Cards.

Tier 2

• 20% to 50% of students are Economically Disadvantaged Students as reported on recent DESE School Report Cards.

Tier 3

• Less than 20% of students are Economically Disadvantaged Students as reported on recent DESE School Report Cards.