Science First

About the Program

Explore

Each day, Science First students can be seen exploring and learning in the Garden. They hone their observational skills in our display areas, like the Rose Garden or Waterfall Garden; they interview plant geneticists in our research labs; they play educational games to learn about predator-prey relationships; and they conduct quadrat studies in McDonald Woods or Dixon Prairie. The emphasis is on using the Garden's space and resources to guide their explorations and learning.

Learn

While exploring the Garden's natural habitats, students learn about botany and ecology and use the scientific method to answer real-world science problems. Daily activities, directed by a team of science teachers, include hands-on science lessons "in the field." Students learn about the Garden's river, prairie, and woodland habitats, touching on topics as varied as genetics, soil ecology, and food webs.

In addition to boosting science knowledge, goals for the program include improving analytical skills needed for scientific inquiry, increasing comfort with science, understanding the role of botanic gardens, and gaining familiarity with careers in the natural sciences.

Present

Each session of Science First culminates with a display of student projects. During one session, students Habib and Zuriel investigated invertebrate biodiversity in shaded versus sunny logs in our woodland ecosystem.

Students who attend our four-week session for new participants design their own botanic garden with native areas and display gardens, and explain relevant careers based on their introduction to the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Students who attend our four-week session for returning students focus on learning science inquiry and process through a crime-scene investigation or through a genetics and evolution curriculum.