Fwd: Bird Migration and Climate Change PD - February 3, 2014
Coquille Houshour
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) and the Gateway National Recreation Area are co-hosting a Professional Development Day for high school teachers on Monday, February 3rd, 2013, from 9am to 3pm at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in NYC: “Using the Common Core to Teach About Climate Change and Bird Migration.”
Teachers will enjoy a day out at the Refuge, do some bird-watching, learn about how climate change is impacting wildlife in New York City, and how they can integrate these issues into their classroom.
A full course description is below and can also be found on NYC Eco-Schools’ web page.
Photo: Don Riepe
Last October, superstorm Sandy slammed into New York City, wreaking havoc on the City’s coastal communities. The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge – part of Gateway National Recreation Area - is one of the most significant bird sanctuaries in the Northeastern U.S., and an important route for migratory birds and endangered species like the piping plover. After Sandy, Jamaica Bay’s beaches and dunes, and spawning and nesting habitats for shorebirds and other animals were badly damaged. How has Sandy impacted the refuge’s bird populations? How will climate change affect animals and plants at the refuge in the future? How are scientists measuring climate impacts? What opportunities are available for teachers and students to investigate these issues in the field, and integrate them into the classroom? Join Hector Galbraith, staff scientist from the National Wildlife Federation, Professor Jennifer Adams from Brooklyn College, and Educational Specialist/National Park Service Ranger Dan Meharg at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge for a first-hand look at how climate change has impacted bird migration in New York City and beyond. Participants will enjoy nature observation from the expansive windows of the refuge’s visitor center that overlook the bay’s salt marshes, as well as outdoor bird-watching (weather permitting). Hands-on activities will help teachers introduce these topics to their students. Learn how and why STEM-focused field study is perfectly aligned to the Common Core and the NYC High School Science Scope & Sequence. Teachers will be encouraged to explore Gateway’s Bird Migration and Climate Change Teacher Guide and return to the park with their students for further exploration. (Grades 9-12). Maximum capacity 40. Please RSVP to fa...@nwf.org.
Emily A. Fano
NYC Outreach Manager
Eco-Schools USA
National Wildlife Federation
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