Engaging Forest Schools

Overview

This lesson focuses on a 30-minute recap designed to test Year 12 (Key Stage 4) students aged 16-17 on the purpose of Forest Schools. It will align with the UK education standards, specifically supporting the Personal Development strand of the curriculum.

Objectives

1. Assess students' understanding of the core principles and purpose of Forest Schools.
2. Encourage critical thinking about the educational and developmental benefits provided by Forest Schools.
3. Foster appreciation for outdoor learning environments.

Materials Needed

• Test papers with five detailed questions
• Pens
• A whiteboard and markers
• Stopwatch or timer for time management
• Sample Forest Schools resources (optional for display)

Recap Test Outline

The test will feature five questions designed to probe deeper into students' understanding. These are not mere factual questions but require students to articulate their reasoning and reflect on personal development.

Question 1: The Essence of Forest Schools

Describe the primary purpose of Forest Schools and how they differ from traditional classroom settings. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.

This question assesses students' comprehension of Forest Schools as child-centred learning and their unique approach to education.

Question 2: Skills and Competencies

Identify and explain at least three skills or competencies that students can develop through participation in Forest Schools.

This question evaluates students' ability to connect Forest School activities with personal growth outcomes, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and environmental awareness.

Question 3: Emotional and Social Impact

Discuss the potential emotional and social benefits for students who regularly participate in Forest Schools. How can these benefits support overall well-being?

This question is designed to explore students' insights into emotional resilience and social skills developed through Forest Schools.

Question 4: Ecological Awareness

In what ways do Forest Schools promote ecological literacy among students? Provide examples of activities used to enhance this understanding.

It examines students' grasp of how Forest Schools foster a deeper connection and understanding of the environment.

Question 5: Personal Experience Reflection

Reflect on a personal or hypothetical experience within a Forest School setting. What did/would you learn and how did/would it affect your personal development or perspective on learning?

This encourages self-reflection and personal connection to the topic, pushing students to relate learning outcomes to their own lives.

Lesson Plan

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Begin the lesson by briefly explaining the purpose and format of the test. Stress the importance of articulating their understanding clearly and relate the questions back to their experiences if possible.

Recap Test (20 minutes)

• Distribute the test papers.
• Set a timer for 20 minutes, ensuring that students manage their time effectively across all questions.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

• Collect the test papers.
• Conclude with a brief discussion on the value of reflecting on learning experiences and how the principles of Forest Schools can apply to other educational settings.
• If time permits, share a brief inspirational quote relevant to outdoor learning to motivate students.

Assessment

• Evaluate students' responses based on their depth of understanding, clarity of explanation, and ability to connect Forest School principles to broader educational values and personal development.
• Provide constructive feedback to support continued growth in understanding the multifaceted benefits of Forest Schools.

This lesson plan aims to "wow" teachers by combining a thorough assessment with insightful reflections, thereby promoting a broader educational understanding.