School and Group Programs
Human History: Sample Day
We offer K-12 programs, including your choice of evening activities. This outline represents common activities. Students' actual days may include different activities.
Theme of the Day
We the people...make the difference
Objectives
By the end of the day, students will:
- Participate in a park restoration project and appreciate its value
- Understand the history of human impact on Yosemite's ecosystem
- Appreciate the cumulative effects of individuals united by a purpose
- Develop questions regarding Miwok Indian history and research answers in museum
- Trace the human presence in Yosemite Valley over the last 4,000 years
Assessment Strategies
The theme is introduced first thing in the morning. Student understanding of the theme and specific concepts is assessed throughout the day. Each activity requires student participation and articulation of key ideas. Each activity requires student participation and articulation of key ideas. In the late afternoon, students share ideas on how they can make a difference in their everyday lives. Instructors evaluate students' understanding of key concepts.
Teaching Day Itinerary
Morning activities:
- Group challenge: cross the flooded river
Students work together to cross an area on the ground that symbolizes the flooded Merced River. Each student may only touch the ground twice. - Blackberry removal
Students learn about invasive species, and the history of their introduction to the park's ecosystem. The group participates in a resource management project aimed at eradicating invasive species from sections of the Yosemite Valley. - Exploration of the Indian village
An inquiry-based activity in which students generate questions about American Indian life and then explore the Indian village looking for answers.
Afternoon activities:
- Q & A with museum expert
Students meet with an interpretive ranger at the Indian museum to ask questions regarding Miwok lifestyles and traditions. - A pioneer's story
Using gravestones in the cemetery, students write a brief fictional story about the life one of the deceased. After sharing the imagined stories, students will hear about each pioneer's real life. - Eco art
Students study Andy Goldsworthy's artwork. Then, each student creates eco art and shares creations with the group. - Closing activity
Students share ways in which they might make a difference.
