CONTACT: Kim Petzerling
More information : www.allerton.uiuc.edu

The Prairie School Project is a K-5 curriculum focused on the tallgrass prairie habitat native to Illinois. Prairie School’s interdisciplinary approach and hands-on activities are designed to help students understand and appreciate how plants, animals, and people interact in this special ecosystem. The comprehensive materials address key Illinois state learning standards, bringing together science and social studies to build a new generation of prairie stewards. By attending the workshop, participants gain a working knowledge of the tallgrass prairie, sample a variety of activities for various grade levels, and receive comprehensive curriculum and resource CDs. A loan kit filled with resources to help carry out Prairie School Project activities will be available for trained users. Learn how to identify prairie plants, collect and clean seed, plant a prairie, and more!

Discover the natural history of and human impact on Illinois’ most endangered species through in-depth studies and hands-on activities. Scientists and educators will combine their skills to teach participants identification, sampling techniques, and corresponding educational activities. The workshop will also explore a variety of teaching resources and educational aids available to educators. After completing the workshop, participants will be eligible to check out an educational loan kit containing a variety of materials for use with their students.