Field Trip Program Guide
Plan a Field Trip
Learning is an experience at Greenacres! Our field trips will complement what you are teaching your students in the classroom with programs built to support state standards. From scheduling a program to assisting with transportation needs, and everything in between, our educators will work with you every step of the way to make sure that you and your students have the best trip possible. Programs are available August through June.
Program Guide
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
Life is full of opposites, like happy or sad, warm or cold, and big or small. Join us for an adventure as we explore opposites through music! Go fast and slow as we follow tempo, get loud and quiet as we explore dynamics, feel long and short sounds as we make rhythms, and hear highs and lows as we experience pitch.
Fine Arts Standards:
- MUS.K.3RE Recognize same and different (fast/slow, loud/quiet, high/low, long/short).
- MUS.K.1CR Experience a wide variety of vocal and instrumental sounds.
- MUS.K.1PE Track steady beat and rhythm (using graphic, iconic, or traditional notation).
Ohio English Language Arts:
- ELA.K.5.b Demonstrate understanding of frequently occurring verbs and adjectives by relating them to their antonyms (opposites).
- ELA.K.5.d Distinguish shades of meaning among verbs describing the same general action (e.g., walk, march, strut, prance) by acting out the meanings.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A2.2.a Explore opportunities to develop skills and talents.
Vocabulary:
opposites, tempo, dynamics, rhythm, steady beat
August-June
Explore the color wheel’s primary and secondary colors with the Greenacres Arts Educators! We will discover how colors can inspire us, and how colors can connect to and reflect our emotions.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.K.3PE Communicate an idea using the elements of art.
- DN.K.1RE Describe how movements can express feelings.
- MUS.K.1CO Experience how music communicates feelings, moods, images, and meaning.
- TH.K.1PE Imitate movements, voices and feelings of people, animals and objects through dramatic play.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.PS.1 Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A1. 1.a Identify basic personal emotions.
- SEL.C1. 1.a Identify facial and body cues representing feelings in others.
Vocabulary:
color, primary, secondary, emotions
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
August - June
Join us as we touch, see, hear and smell our way around the farm!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.PS.1: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Terms related to direction and distance, as well as symbols and landmarks, can be used to talk about the relative location of familiar places.
- Geography - Human Systems: Humans depend on and impact the physical environment in order to supply food, clothing and shelter.
Vocabulary:
Senses, touch, see, hear, smell, properties, farm
August - June
What’s it like to be a farmer? We will see what it takes to keep the farm running smoothly. Whether that is tending to our pastures or cultivating our crops, there is always something to do on the farm.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- K.LS.2: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS2-2. Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals (including humans) can change the environment to meet their needs.
- K-ESS3-1. Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants or animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-ESS3-3. Communicate solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and/or other living things in the local environment.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Human Systems: Humans depend on and impact the physical environment in order to supply food, clothing and shelter.
- Government - Civil Participation and Skills: Individuals share responsibilities and take action toward the achievement of common goals in homes, schools and communities.
- Economics - Scarcity: Individuals have many wants and make decisions to satisfy those wants. These decisions impact others.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy individual’s wants.
Vocabulary:
Farmer, characteristic, trait, cultivate, crop, relationship
August-June
Embark on an adventure at Greenacres Arts Center to explore different fairy tales, folklore, and legends. This program explores the concepts of telling and retelling a story through the arts, dramatic play, and use of imagination. This program’s content changes in fall, winter, and spring, so you can visit one, two, or three times!
Fine Arts Standards:
- TH.K.1PE Imitate movements, voices and feelings of people, animals and objects through dramatic play.
- DN.K.2CR Explore ways to use imagination when engaged in dancing.
- MUS.K.3CO Investigate concepts shared between music, other art forms, and other subject areas.
- VA.K.1CO Connect ideas, stories, and personal experiences to works of art.
English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.RL.K.3 With prompting and support, identify characters, settings, and major events in a story.
- ELA.RI.K.2 With prompting and support, identify the main topic and retell key details of a text.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.B2. 4.a Discuss obstacles that can get in the way of reaching a goal and ideas for handling those obstacles
- SEL.D1. 1.a Identify and engage in positive communication skills
Vocabulary:
story, character, setting, imagination, quest, obstacle, teamwork
August-June
The Greenacres Arts Center is home to beautiful works of art, instruments, and cleverly designed shapes built into our architecture. We will investigate the shapes around us to inspire art marking and musical exploration.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.K.1CR Explore environments and experiences to generate original artmaking ideas.
- DN.K.1CR Explore movement with basic elements of dance.
- MUS.K.3RE Recognize same and different (fast/slow, loud/quiet, high/low, long/short).
Ohio Math Standards:
- K.G.4 Describe and compare two- or three-dimensional shapes, in different sizes and orientations, using informal language to describe their commonalities, differences, parts, and other attributes.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.PS.1: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
Vocabulary:
shape, design, geometric, organic, 2-D, 3-D, size, pitch
August-June
Weather has a big influence on the natural world. Sunlight warms water, air and soil, which changes how living things behave. In this program, we will look for evidence of the effects of short and long-term weather as we explore the impact on plants and animals at Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration
- ESS Grade K: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
NGSS Standards:
- K-PS3-1. Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth’s surface
- K-ESS2-1. Use and share observations of local weather conditions to describe patterns over time.
August-June
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Ohio’s natural areas. We will focus on using our senses while building observation skills and applying them to learning about our environment. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more comfortable in nature.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- SWK Grade K-2: Exploration leads to observation. Observation leads to questions.
- PS Grade K: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
- PS Grade K: Some objects and materials can be made to vibrate to produce sound.
NGSS Standards:
- K.LS1.1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- K.MD.A.2. Directly compare two objects with a measurable attribute in common, to see which object has “more or”/”less of” the attribute, and describe the difference.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
senses, sight, sound, smell, touch, taste, observation
Jan 21-Feb 25, 2026
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Many animals and people benefit by using the sap of maple trees. Plan to visit our sugar bush and our working evaporator at Greenacres as you use your senses to discover how maple sap is turned into syrup. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade K-2: Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses.
- LS Grade K: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- ESS Grade 1: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
- ESS Grade 1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- ESS Grade 1: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- ESS Grade 2: Long and short term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on earth.
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and or reproducing.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- 1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
Vocabulary:
spiles, sap, gallons, sugar shack, sugar bush, evaporation, tap, sapsucker
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Students will explore the difference between living things and nonliving things. Learn about the characteristics that define a living, nonliving, and once-living thing as we explore the various natural habitats of Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade K: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
living, nonliving, once alive, behaviors, traits, observe, grow, breathe
April - October
Exploring nature is an important part of developing a relationship with our environment. Ponds are an essential resource to many Ohio plants and animals. Students will make observations, while visiting the pond at Greenacres, and discover what creatures call this habitat home.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade K: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- K-ESS3-3. Communicate solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and/or other living things in the local environment.
Vocabulary: observation, living, nonliving, compare, physical traits, behavior
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a pond video with a Greenacres educator
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
Every season brings a different experience at Greenacres – inside and outside! Use observable seasonal changes in fall, winter, and spring to express yourself and your experiences through the arts. This program’s content changes in fall, winter, and spring, so you can visit one, two, or three times! Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.1.2CR Explore structured improvisations and movement phrases within a central theme.
- MUS.1.3CO Connect concepts shared between music, other art forms, and other subject areas.
- TH.1.2RE React to character actions and choices, both personal and peer, following a guided drama experience.
- VA.1.1RE Describe the meaning of symbols and images in works of art.
Science Standards:
- K.PS.1 Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
- NGSS: K-ESS2-1 Earth’s Systems: Use and share observations of local weather conditions to describe patterns over time.
Social Studies Standards:
- SS.K.3 Heritage is reflected through the arts, customs, traditions, family celebrations and language.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.E4.3.a Identify examples of transitions and how they are a necessary and appropriate part of school and life.
Vocabulary:
seasons, observations, changes, inspiration, traditions
August-June
Join us at the Arts Center to bring your students’ creativity to life! Through the visual and performing arts, students can uncover their strengths in creating and collaborating alongside peers. This program seeks to empower young students to acknowledge themselves as creative.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.1.2CR Explore structured improvisations and movement phrases within a central theme.
- MUS.1.1CO Explore how music communicates feelings, moods, images, and meaning.
- TH.1.2PE Create and tell stories based on personal experience (orally, written, by drawing a picture or pictures).
- VA.1.2PE Engage with materials and tools to develop artmaking skills.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.1.9 Collaboration requires group members to respect the rights and opinions of others.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A2.2.a Explore opportunities to develop skills and talents.
Vocabulary:
artist, create, perform, improvisation, collaboration
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
August-June
Birds are perhaps the easiest wildlife to observe. Birds have many unique adaptations, which allows them to be found in many different habitats. We'll use our observation skills to find birds of all shapes, sizes, and colors as we hike around Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
NGSS Standards:
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 1-LS3-1: Make observations to construct an evidence-based account that young plants and animals are like, but not exactly like, their parents
Vocabulary: Observation, Habitat, Evidence, Adaptation, Trait, Behavior
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a bird video with a Greenacres educator
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
September-October & April-May
Both Spring and Fall have a lot to offer on a farm! Come explore the wonders of these two seasons of transition.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 1.LS.2: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 1-LS3-1. Make observations to construct an evidence-based account that young plants and animals are like, but not exactly like, their parents.
- 1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- History - Historical Thinking and Skills: Time can be divided into categories (e.g., months of the year, past, present and future).
- Geography - Places and Regions: Places are distinctive because of their physical characteristics (land forms and bodies of water) and human characteristics (structures built by people).
- Geography - Human Systems: Families interact with the physical environment differently in different times and places.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
Vocabulary:
Season, living, observation, parent, offspring, daylight, spring, fall, harvest, bloom
August - June
All living things have basic needs. Come discover what it takes to nurture the organisms big and small around the farm.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 1.LS.2: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 1-LS1-2. Read texts and use media to determine patterns in behavior of parents and offspring that help offspring survive.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- History - Heritage: The ways basic human needs are met have changed over time.
- Geography - Human Systems: Diverse cultural practices address basic human needs in various ways and may change over time.
- Economics - Scarcity: Wants are unlimited and resources are limited. Individuals make choices because they cannot have everything they want.
Vocabulary:
Living, nonliving, adaptations, habitat
August-June
We work together in many ways every day. Join us at the Arts Center to work as a group of artists to tell stories through team building and the visual and performing arts.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.1.2PE Engage with materials and tools to develop artmaking skills.
- MUS.1.1CO Explore how music communicates feelings, moods, images, and meaning.
- DN.1.2CR Explore structured improvisations and movement phrases within a central theme.
English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.RL.1.7 Use illustrations and details in a story to describe its characters, setting, or events.
- ELA.SL.1.1 Participate in collaborative conversations about grade 1 topics and texts with diverse partners in small and larger groups.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.E1. 2.a Identify strategies to solve a problem
Vocabulary:
collaboration, teamwork, character, setting
August-June
Have you ever considered how a color could smell? Or how a sound could move around? At the Arts Center, we are ready to explore the connections between our five senses, the artmaking process, and how one person changed the meaning of “art.”
Fine Arts Standards:
- MUS.1.4RE Respond to music using movement, dance, drama, or visual art.
- DN.1.1CR Explore and experiment with locomotor and non-locomotor movements using changes in body shape, time, space, and movement quality.
- TH.1.3PE Demonstrate various movements, voices, and feelings by performing a variety of familiar roles.
- VA.1.2CR Explore materials to devise imagery and symbols.
English Language Arts:
- ELA.SL.1.5 Add drawings or other visual displays to descriptions when appropriate to clarify ideas, thoughts, and feelings.
Vocabulary:
senses, emotions, synesthesia, Wassily Kandinsky
August-June
In nature, materials are recycled through a variety of processes with the help of fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates. Humans can also play a vital role in recycling. Students will explore the similarities and differences between natural and human recycling while experiencing the diverse habitats at Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- PS Grade 1: Properties of objects and materials can change.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
NGSS Standards:
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
Social Studies Standards:
- Government Strand: Civic Participation and Skills: Individuals have responsibility to take action toward the achievement of common goals in homes, schools and communities and are accountable for those actions.
- Economics Strand: Scarcity: Wants are unlimited and resources are limited. Individuals make choices because they cannot have everything they want.
- Economics Strand: Production and Consumption: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
waste, reduce, reuse, recycle, landfill, decomposer, compost
August-June
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Ohio’s natural areas. We will focus on making observations and applying them to learn about our environment. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more comfortable in nature.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- SWK Grade K-2: Exploration leads to observation. Observation leads to questions.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
NGSS Standards:
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
Poster and Vocabulary:
observation, senses, compare, explore
Jan 21-Feb 25, 2026
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Many animals and people benefit by using the sap of maple trees. Plan to visit our sugar bush and our working evaporator at Greenacres as you use your senses to discover how maple sap is turned into syrup. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade K-2: Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses.
- LS Grade K: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- ESS Grade 1: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
- ESS Grade 1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- ESS Grade 1: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- ESS Grade 2: Long and short term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on earth.
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and or reproducing.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- 1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
Vocabulary:
spiles, sap, gallons, sugar shack, sugar bush, evaporation, tap, sapsucker
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Plants and animals require food, water, shelter, space, and air to survive. We will explore how those basic needs are met in each habitat at Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
NGSS Standards:
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
habitat, living, nonliving, food, water, shelter, space, air
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
Patterns are a part of our everyday lives and help us make sense of the world. Join us at Greenacres Arts Center to search for and create our own patterns through the visual and performing arts. Parts of this program change with the seasons, so there is always something new to explore!
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.2.1CR Explore and experiment with basic locomotor and non-locomotor movement patterns using changes in time, space, body shape, and movement quality to construct and express personal meaning.
- MUS.2.1CR Improvise simple rhythmic and melodic phrases using known patterns and a variety of sound sources.
- TH.2.1PE Create movements and voices of characters to communicate feelings and ideas in dramatic or theatrical contexts (e.g., skits, puppetry, pantomime, improvisation and storytelling).
- VA.2.3PE Produce works that intentionally incorporate the elements of art.
Math Standards:
- G.2.1 Recognize and identify triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, and hexagons based on the number of sides or vertices. Recognize and identify cubes, rectangular prisms, cones, and cylinders.
- MP.2.7 Look for and make use of structure.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A4.2.a Demonstrate confidence in the ability to complete simple tasks and challenges independently, while expressing positive attitudes towards self.
Vocabulary:
seasons, shape, pattern, repetition, rhythm, phrases
August-June
Using tools and practices centered around creativity and perseverance, experience the calming effects of visual art, music, and mindful movement. This program supports the “love and belonging” and “esteem” stages of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and focuses on Whole Student Education. We will empower students by sharing self-regulation strategies that can support their academic and social-emotional success.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.2.1RE Describe different ways movements shaped into dance depict feelings and emotions.
- DN.2.1CO Recognize and discuss how dance is an avenue for physical fitness.
- MUS.2.7RE Explain how music is used for a variety of purposes and occasions in various cultures.
- VA.2.1CO Recognize and discuss the different ways in which art communicates ideas and serves many purposes.
Science Standards:
- K.PS.1 Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
- NGSS: K-ESS2-1 Earth’s Systems: Use and share observations of local weather conditions to describe patterns over time.
Social Studies Standards:
- SS.2.9 Interactions among cultures lead to sharing ways of life.
Physical Education Standards:
- Phys.Ed.2.2 Perform combinations of locomotor, non-locomotor, weight transfer and static and dynamic balance skills.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.B1.3.a Identify and begin to use strategies to regulate emotions and manage behaviors.
Vocabulary:
mindfulness, reflection, regulate, breathe
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
August-June
Every season is a different experience when you are on the farm! Come explore what the current season has to offer for life here.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 2.ESS.3: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 2-LS2-1. Plan and conduct an investigation to determine if plants need sunlight and water to grow.
- 2-ESS1-1. Use information from several sources to provide evidence that Earth events can occur quickly or slowly.
- 2-ESS2-1. Compare multiple solutions designed to slow or prevent wind or water from changing the shape of the land.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- History - Historical Thinking and Skills: Time can be shown graphically on calendars and timelines.
- History - Heritage: Science and technology have changed daily life.
- Geography - Human Systems: Human activities alter the physical environment, both positively and negatively.
Vocabulary:
Seasons, weather, energy, Earth, wind, water, erosion, deposition
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
August-June
Let your students lead as they create their own village in our Greenacres forest habitat. This program is play-based, imagination-driven, and student led. Students will decide what they will contribute to the village, the laws, businesses and services all while fostering a sense of community. 3-4 hour program.
Ohio Science Standards
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on Earth.
NGSS Standards
- 2-PS1-1. Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties
Ohio Social Studies Standards
- Government Strand: Civic Participation and Skills: Respect for the rights of self and others includes making responsible choices and being accountable for personal actions.
- Government Strand: Civic Participation and Skills: Groups are accountable for choices they make and actions they take.
- Government Strand: Rules and Laws: There are different rules and laws that govern behavior in different settings.
- Economics Strand: Scarcity: Resources can be used in various ways.
- Economics Strand: Markets: People use money to buy and sell goods and services.
- Economics Strand: Financial Literacy: People earn income by working.
- Economics Strand: Production and Consumption: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
Vocabulary:
Environment, community, resources, goods, services, scarcity, law, rule, choices, income
August-June
Students will experience life on the farm and uncover the interactions happening between living and non-living things. Students will observe and consider how the actions of animals and farmers impact one another and support life on the farm.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 2-PS1-1.Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.
- 2-PS1-2.Analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 2-LS2-1. Plan and conduct an investigation to determine if plants need sunlight and water to grow.
- 2-LS2-2. Develop a simple model that mimics the function of an animal in dispersing seeds or pollinating plants.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Places and Regions: The work that people do is impacted by the distinctive human and physical characteristics in the place where they live.
- Geography - Human Systems: Human activities alter the physical environment, both positively and negatively
- Economics- Scarcity: Resources can be used in various ways
Vocabulary:
Living, nonliving, ecosystem, farm, observation, habitats, biodiversity
August-June
Storytelling is best known from the pages of a book. Visit the Arts Center to become a part of the transformation from words on a page into acting on the stage. Full of characters and creativity, test your imagination with performance, and bring new life to telling a story.
Fine Arts Standards:
- TH.2.1PE Create movements and voices of characters to communicate feelings and ideas in dramatic or theatrical contexts (e.g., skits, puppetry, pantomime, improvisation and storytelling).
- TH.2.2PE Explore and demonstrate various design components of a scene (e.g., draw a picture from the stories, create live sound effects and identify clothing items appropriate to the character).
Ohio English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.RL.2.5 Describe the overall structure of a story, including describing how the beginning introduces the story and the ending concludes the action.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.E4. 1.a Recognize that new opportunities may have positive outcomes
- SEL.E4. 2.a Identify physical and emotional responses to unfamiliar situations
Vocabulary:
character, setting, conflict, script, blocking, backdrop, stage presence
August-Oct; March 15th-June
Nature provides endless inspiration for expression. Be prepared to get your hands dirty as we experiment with natural materials and our creativity! Programs in the Arts in the Natural World Series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. This program only operates in warmer months (August-October 31; March 15-June).
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.2.2CR Combine materials to explore personal artistic ideas.
- DN.2.3PE Collaborate with peers to create movement studies and informal dances.
- TH.2.2PE Explore and demonstrate various design components of a scene (create live sound effects and identify clothing items appropriate to the character).
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.2.8 Cultures develop in unique ways, in part through the influence of the physical environment.
Science Standards:
- Sci.2.LS.1 Living things cause changes on Earth.
- NGSS: 2-PS1-1 Matter and Its Interactions: Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A4. 2.a Demonstrate confidence in the ability to complete simple tasks and challenges independently, while expressing positive attitudes towards self.
Vocabulary:
nature, resources, imagination, inspiration
August-June
Changes in weather impact the survival of local plants and animals. Students will use tools to measure the water, wind, and temperature at Greenacres and see how these conditions affect living things in nature
Ohio Science Standards
- ESS Grade 2: The atmosphere is made up of air.
- ESS Grade 2: Water is present in the air.
- ESS Grade 2: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy
NGSS Standards
- 2-ESS2-3. Obtain information to identify where water is found on Earth and that it can be solid or liquid.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
weather, atmosphere, wind, temperature, water cycle, sun, clouds, evaporation, precipitation, condensation
April - October
Many plants and pollinators need each other to survive. Discover the surprising interactions between these unique pairs while exploring the fields and forests at Greenacres. This program will focus on the characteristics of plants and pollinators that make them partners.
Ohio Science Standards
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on Earth.
NGSS Standards
- 2-LS2-2. Develop a simple model that mimics the function of an animal in dispersing seeds or pollinating plants.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
habitat, bud, stem, leaf, root, thorn, bark, flower, seed, insect, pollination
August-June
Little actions can make big changes to our habitats at Greenacres. Come explore how plants and animals interact with other living things and even non-living things while finding food, exploring their surroundings and building homes.
Ohio Science Standards
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on Earth.
NGSS Standards
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
August-June
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Ohio’s natural areas. We’ll focus on developing nature awareness skills that allow us to make observations about the plants and animals in our habitats at Greenacres. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more comfortable in nature.
Ohio Science Standards
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- SWK Grade K-2: Exploration leads to observation. Observation leads to questions.
NGSS Standards
- 2-PS1-1. Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
Introduction & Vocabulary: observation, senses, awareness, habitat
Jan 21-Feb 25, 2026
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Many animals and people benefit by using the sap of maple trees. Plan to visit our sugar bush and our working evaporator at Greenacres as you use your senses to discover how maple sap is turned into syrup. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade K-2: Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses.
- LS Grade K: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- ESS Grade 1: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
- ESS Grade 1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- ESS Grade 1: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- ESS Grade 2: Long and short term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on earth.
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and or reproducing.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- 1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
Vocabulary:
spiles, sap, gallons, sugar shack, sugar bush, evaporation, tap, sapsucker
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
April-October
Exploring nature is an important part of developing a relationship with our environment. Streams are an essential resource to many Ohio plants and animals, including humans. Take time to discover the stream at Greenacres and make observations as we look for plants and animals that call it home.
Ohio Science Standards
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 2.LS.2: All organisms alive today result from their ancestors, some of which may be extinct. Not all kinds of organisms that lived in the past are represented by living organisms today.
NGSS Standards
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 2-ESS2-3. Obtain information to identify where water is found on Earth and that it can be solid or liquid.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
macroinvertebrates, fossil, extinct, habitat
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
We use paper in countless ways each day - from writing a note to drying our hands. The amount of paper we use leads to large quantities of paper waste sent to landfill or recycled and never seen again. In nature, materials are recycled through a variety of processes with the help of fungus, bacteria, and invertebrates. In this program, we explore sustainability by repurposing scraps into new paper that can be used in artistic practice and uncover the similarities and differences between natural and human recycling. This hands-on experience encourages students to learn new skills and make sustainable choices.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.3.1CR Identify problems as sources in preparation for artmaking.
- VA.3.2CR Investigate artistic challenges using various materials and tools.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS.3.3 Some of Earth’s resources are limited.
Ohio Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C2. 3.b Perform activities that contribute to classroom, school, home and broader community.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics Strand: Scarcity: Wants are unlimited and resources are limited. Individuals make choices because they cannot have everything they want.
- Economics Strand: Production and Consumption: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
Vocabulary:
recycling, sustainability, purpose, mould & deckle, texture, decomposer
August - June
Explore language arts in a new way as we make connections between the literary world and our natural world. Join us for an enchanted adventure where we will bring fairytales, fables and fiction to life in the magical forests of Greenacres. Students will craft their own tall tale of the day’s adventures, before they ride off into the sunset.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.SL.3.2 Determine the main ideas and supporting details of a text read aloud or information presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally.
- ELA.L.3.3 Use knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS2-1. Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
- 3-LS4-4. Make a claim about the merit of a solution to a problem caused when the environment changes and the types of plants and animals that live there may change.
Vocabulary:
behavior, trait, adaptation, habitat, fiction, non-fiction, fable
August-October 31; March 15-June
Ephemeral Art is a type of art that is temporary and subject to the changes time brings. At Greenacres Arts Center, we will explore how Ephemeral Art can be made with nature, leaving no lasting environmental impact. Immerse yourself in the natural world and discover how to use your surroundings to create art in ways you may not have considered before. Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. This program only operates in warmer months (August-October 31; March 15-June).
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.3.1CR Improvise and create movements that reflect an understanding of themes from a range of sources, including other content areas.
- VA.3.2CR Investigate artistic challenges using various materials and tools.
- VA.3.1CO Understand that the context impacts the creation, interpretation and perception of an artwork.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 3.ESS.3 Some of Earth’s resources are limited.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.3.6 Evidence of positive and negative human modification of the environment can be observed in the local community.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.D1.1.b Apply active listening and effective communication skills to increase cooperation and relationships.
Vocabulary:
ephemeral, natural resources, leave no trace, decompose, interpretation
August-June
Artists express themselves by interpreting the world around them. Students will learn about how different artists use the visual and performing arts to tell a story, then they will explore different artistic techniques to develop their own ways to interpret their favorite people, places, and experiences. Students may even build some confidence along the way!
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.3.1CR Improvise and create movements that reflect an understanding of themes from a range of sources, including other content areas.
- MUS.3.4PE Play a variety of classroom instruments, alone and with others while demonstrating consistently proper techniques.
- TH.3.2PE Use voice, movement, and space to communicate a storyline and a character’s thoughts, feelings and ideas.
- VA.3.1RE Compare and contrast personal interpretations of works of art with those of peers.
English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.SL.3.2 Determine the main ideas and supporting details of a text read aloud or information presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A1.1.b Identify a range of personal emotions.
Vocabulary:
story, subject, interpret, pantomime, leitmotif, confidence
August-June
We use paper in countless ways each day - from writing a note to drying our hands. The amount of paper we use leads to large quantities of paper waste sent to landfills or recycled and never seen again. In this program, we explore sustainability by repurposing scraps into new paper that can be used in artistic practice. This hands-on experience encourages students to learn new skills and make sustainable choices.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.3.1CR Identify problems as sources in preparation for artmaking.
- VA.3.2CR Investigate artistic challenges using various materials and tools.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS.3.3 Some of Earth’s resources are limited.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics Strand: Scarcity: Wants are unlimited and resources are limited. Individuals make choices because they cannot have everything they want.
- Economics Strand: Production and Consumption: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C2.3.b Perform activities that contribute to classroom, school, home and broader community.
Vocabulary:
recycling, sustainability, purpose, mould & deckle, texture
August-June
Do you ever find yourself liking or disliking a work of art, but struggle to articulate why? In this program, students will become art historians for the day to explore the elements of visual art and visual analysis.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.3.3PE Use principles of design to arrange the elements of art.
- VA.3.1RE Compare and contrast personal interpretations of works of art with those of peers.
- VA.3.3RE Generate and defend established criteria for determining what is a work of art.
- VA.3.1CO Understand that the context impacts the creation, interpretation and perception of an artwork.
Ohio English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.SL.3.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 3 topics and texts, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.3.8 Communities may include diverse cultural groups.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C1.2.b Identify and acknowledge others’ viewpoints, knowing that both sides do not have to agree but can still be respectful.
Vocabulary:
observe, describe, analyze, interpret, opinion
August-June
Your third graders are in a critical developmental stage of self-discovery and preference-building. Studies show that engagement with the arts and culture develops critical thinking, perseverance, and historical empathy. Join us at Greenacres Arts Center for a hands-on "taste tester" program, where students get to explore the visual and performing arts as participants and perhaps discover a new interest!
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.3.2CR Improvise, create, and perform dances in response to movement prompts.
- MUS.3.4PE Play a variety of classroom instruments, alone and with others while demonstrating consistently proper techniques.
- TH.3.2CR Create the movements and expressive voice of a character to explain and solve problems in a teacher-created improvisation or text.
- VA.3.2CR Investigate artistic challenges using various materials and tools.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.3.3 Local communities change over time
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A2.1.b Identify personal strengths based on interests and qualities.
Vocabulary:
dance, music, theatre, visual art, preference, perseverance
August-June
Movement is a way to express ourselves, interact with other artforms, and explore the world around us. Join the Greenacres Arts Educators to explore how movement allows us to be active participants and creators of the arts. Students will engage in a kinesthetic style of learning to build confidence and have fun!
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.3.2CR Improvise, create, and perform dances in response to movement prompts.
- DN.3.2CO Recognize and describe the role of dance in life and community.
- MUS.3.4RE Interpret music through movement, dance, drama, and visual art.
- TH.3.2PE Use voice, movement, and space to communicate a storyline and a character’s thoughts, feelings and ideas.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.3.7 Systems of transportation and communication move people, products and ideas from place to place.
Physical Education Standards:
- PE.3.1.4 Perform teacher-selected and developmentally appropriate dance steps and movement patterns.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C1.1.b Identify verbal and nonverbal cues representing feelings in others.
Vocabulary:
interpret, perform, improvise, spatial awareness, culture
August-June
Come count your change, stay on budget, and understand how money works at the Market! Students will learn about financial literacy, budgeting, and decision-making as they make choices when shopping at our Farm Market.
Ohio Standards:
- SL.3.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 3 topics and texts, building
- 3.MD.1 Work with time and money.
- Financial Literacy:
- 1. Choices can be made with your money. Choices include spending, saving and donating. Money can also be saved in financial institutions.
- 4. Financial responsibility includes the development of a spending and savings plan (personal budget).
- 5. An informed consumer makes decisions on purchases that may include a decision-making strategy to determine if purchases are within their budget.
- 6. Recognize that money is needed to purchase goods and services.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-5-ETS1-1. Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics - Production and Consumption: A consumer is a person whose wants are satisfied by using goods and services. A producer makes goods and/or provides services.
- Economics - Markets: A market is where buyers and sellers exchange goods and services.
- Economics - Financial Literacy: Making decisions involves weighing costs and benefits.
- Economics - Financial Literacy: A budget is a plan to help people make personal economic decisions for the present and future and to become more financially responsible.
Vocabulary:
Money, Dollar, Quarter, Dime, Penny, Budget, Price, Cost, Goods and Services, Farm Market, Add, Subtract, Decide, Financially Responsible
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
August-June
Over two days, back-to-back, let your students lead as they create their own village in our Greenacres forest habitat. This program is play-based, imagination-driven, and student led. Students will decide what they will contribute to the village, the laws, businesses and services, solve a community problem, design signs for their businesses, and cheers for their town, all while fostering a sense of community. 2 day program back-to-back, 3-4 hours per day.
Ohio Science Standards
- 3.ESS.3: Some of Earth’s resources are limited.
NGSS Standards
- 3-5-ETS1-1. Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- 3-5-ETS1-2. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards
- Government Strand: Civic Participation and Skills: Members of local communities have rights and responsibilities.
- Government Strand: Civic Participation and Skills: Individuals make the community a better place by taking action to solve problems in a way that promotes the common good.
- Government Strand: Rules and Laws: Laws are rules which apply to all people in a community and describe ways people are expected to behave. Laws promote order and security, provide public services and protect the rights of individuals in the local community
- Government Strand: Roles and Systems of Government: Governments have authority to make and enforce laws
- Government Strand: Roles and Systems of Government: The structure of local governments may differ from one community to another
- Economics Strand: Scarcity: Individuals must make decisions because of the scarcity of resources. Making a decision involves a trade-off
- Economics Strand: Production and Consumption: A consumer is a person whose wants are satisfied by using goods and services. A producer makes goods and/or provides services
- Economics Strand: Markets: A market is where buyers and sellers exchange goods and services.
- Economics Strand: Financial Literacy: Making decisions involves weighing costs and benefits.
Vocabulary:
natural resources, supply and demand, consumer, producer, law, scarcity, community, currency, goods, services, choices, income, logo
August-June
All stages of life can be found around the farm. Join us as we learn more about how these living things, and what stage they are in, can contribute to the well-being of the farm.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 3.LS.1: Offspring resemble their parents and each other.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS1-1. Develop models to describe that organisms have unique and diverse life cycles but all have in common birth, growth, reproduction, and death.
- 3-LS3-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence that plants and animals have traits inherited from parents and that variation of these traits exists in a group of similar organisms
- Geography - Places and Regions: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
Vocabulary:
Life cycle, stages, living, offspring, parent, organism
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
August-June
Come discover how life around the farm has developed to be better suited to the environment it inhabits. As farmers, we can use these adaptations as tools to help us be successful.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS2-1. Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
- 3-LS3-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence that plants and animals have traits inherited from parents and that variation of these traits exists in a group of similar organisms
- 3-LS4-2. Use evidence to construct an explanation for how the variations in characteristics among individuals of the same species may provide advantages in surviving, finding mates, and reproducing
- 3-LS4-3. Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- History - Historical Thinking and Skills: Events in local history can be shown on timelines organized by years, decades and centuries.
- History - Heritage: Local communities change overtime.
- Geography - Places and Regions: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- Geography - Humans Systems: Evidence of positive and negative human modification of the environment can be observed in the local community.
- Geography - Humans Systems: Systems of transportation and communication move people, products and ideas from place to place.
Vocabulary:
Adaptation, life cycle, group survival, inherited, parent, offspring, trait, characteristic
August - June
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Ohio’s natural areas. Students will become nature detectives searching for tracks and signs that are clues about animals' lives. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more comfortable in nature.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind differ in their traits and sometimes the differences give individuals an advantage in surviving and reproducing.
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Develop and communicate descriptions, models, explanations and predictions.
SIPA Grade 3-5: Think critically and ask questions about the observations and explanations of others.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS2-1. Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
sign, scat, track, evidence, adaptation, survival, habitat
August - June
Humans have always relied on nature for their everyday needs. Join us as we learn all about the nonliving natural resources at Greenacres. We will observe the unique characteristics of resources such as water, air, rock, soil and energy to discover how they are used by living things.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS Grade 3: Earth’s nonliving resources have specific properties.
- ESS Grade 3: Earth’s resources can be used for energy.
- ESS Grade 3: Some of Earth’s resources are limited.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-4. Make a claim about the merit of a solution to a problem caused when the environment changes and the types of plants and animals that live there may change.
Social Studies Standards:
- Geography Strand: Places and Regions: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- Geography Strand: Human Systems: Evidence of positive and negative human modification of the environment can be observed in the local community.
- Economics Strand: Scarcity: Individuals must make decisions because of the scarcity of resources. Making a decision involves a trade-off.
Poster and Vocabulary:
living, nonliving, natural resource, observation, soil, water, air
Jan 21-Feb 25, 2026
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Many animals and people benefit by using the sap of maple trees. Plan to visit our sugar bush and our working evaporator at Greenacres as you use your senses to discover how maple sap is turned into syrup. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade K-2: Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses.
- LS Grade K: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- ESS Grade 1: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
- ESS Grade 1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- ESS Grade 1: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- ESS Grade 2: Long and short term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on earth.
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and or reproducing.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- 1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
Vocabulary:
spiles, sap, gallons, sugar shack, sugar bush, evaporation, tap, sapsucker
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Plants and animals have different adaptations and life cycles that increase their chances of survival within their environment. Explore the field and forest at Greenacres to look for some unique plant and animal bodies and behaviors.
Ohio Science Standards
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind differ in their traits and sometimes the differences give individuals an advantage in surviving and reproducing.
- LS Grade 3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments
NGSS Standards
- 3-LS2-1. Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 3-LS4-2. Use evidence to construct an explanation for how the variations in characteristics among individuals of the same species may provide advantages in surviving, finding mates, and reproducing
- 3-LS4-3. Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
Video Introduction and Vocabulary:
behavior, body parts, trait, survive, physical features, adaptation, life cycles
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-October 31; March 15-June
Patterns are all around us. Sometimes they occur naturally, while other times they are made by artists or scientists. In this program, we will discover patterns in nature and the science behind them while exploring how naturally occurring patterns can be used as inspiration in the artistic process. Programs in the Arts in the Natural World Series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. This program only operates in warmer months (August-October 31; March 15-June).
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.4.1RE Identify qualities that contribute to the design and meanings of works of art.
- VA.4.2CO Explore universal themes expressed across arts disciplines.
- MUS.4.2CR Compose using known rhythms, whole notes, dotted notes, sixteenth-note combinations, or syncopated rhythms in a variety of meters using phrase and large form, standard and iconic notation, and a variety of sound sources.
- MUS.4.4PE Play a variety of classroom instruments, alone and with others while demonstrating various proper techniques.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
NGSS Standards:
- 4-ESS1-1 Identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.
- ESS.4.1 Earth’s surface has specific characteristics and landforms that can be identified.
Vocabulary:
observation, discovery, pattern, line, shape, repetition, architecture, fossils
August-June
Putting on a show is a collaborative masterpiece that encourages an array of creative skills. For example, technical artists design sets, props, and lighting, while performing artists bring the story to life with their voice, body, and imagination. Join us at the Greenacres Arts Center to explore the artful thought that goes into every aspect of a performance!
Fine Arts Standards:
- TH.4.1PE Manipulate voice, movement, space, design, and physical objects to communicate thoughts, feelings, and ideas in both improvised and scripted activities.
- TH.4.1RE Explain, through appropriate theatrical vocabulary, how manipulation of technical elements brings about changes in performances.
Ohio English Language Arts:
- ELA.4.6 Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases, including those that signal precise actions, emotions, or states of being (e.g., quizzed, whined, stammered) and that are basic to a particular topic (e.g., wildlife, conservation, and endangered when discussing animal preservation).
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C4.1.b Identify others’ reactions by tone of voice, body language and facial expressions.
Vocabulary:
design, scenes, props, stage presence
August-June
Sound is an important part of our everyday lives. Learn about how the art of sound enhances all other art forms and how most forms of media would fall short without it! Spend the day learning the ways of a Foley Artist as we engineer our own sound effects for film.
Fine Arts Standards:
- MUS.4.3RE Compare and contrast elements of music using developmentally appropriate vocabulary.
- MUS.4.1CO Discuss the connection between emotion and music in selected musical works using elements of music.
- MUS.4.3CO Discuss how the elements and subject matter of music connect with other subject areas.
- VA.4.2CO Explore universal themes expressed across arts disciplines.
Ohio English Language Arts:
- ELA.SL.4.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 4 topics and texts, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.E1.1.b Generate possible solutions or responses to a problem or needed decision recognizing that there may be more than one perspective.
Vocabulary:
sound effect, composer, film score, storyboard, ambience
August-June
Something is amiss at Greenacres Arts Center! Learn about the hundred-year-old history of the Arts Center, its hidden treasures, and its original owner, Julius Fleischmann Jr. Put on your detective cap as we find clues, solve riddles, and work together to track down a “missing” artifact! Students will explore some of the Arts Center’s assets, including its Norman-style architecture, its enormous Aeolian Pipe Organ, and collection of artworks.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.4.3CO Demonstrate empathetic reactions in response to works of art.
Ohio English Language Arts:
- ELA.W.4.8 Recall relevant information from experiences or gather relevant information from print and digital sources; take notes and categorize information and provide a list of sources.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 4.MD.4 Display and interpret data in graphs (picture graphs, bar graphs, and line plots) to solve problems using numbers and operations for this grade.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.4.2 Primary and secondary sources can be used to create historical narratives.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A4.2.b Demonstrate confidence in the ability to complete a range of tasks and address challenges while expressing positive attitudes towards self.
Vocabulary:
teamwork, history, architecture, artwork, artifact, evidence, clue
August-June
Animals use their senses to guide their actions: to find food, to escape from danger, and to interact with the world. Visit our farm to learn about the livestock we care for, their senses, and the handling practices our farmers use to ensure humane animal practices.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SL. 4.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 4 topics and texts, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.
- 3-5.ST.1.b. Identify positive and negative impacts one’s use of personal technology and technology systems (e.g., agriculture, transportation, energy generation, water treatment) can have on one’s community
- 3-5.ST.3.c. Identify and discuss how the use of technology affects self and others in various ways.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 4-LS1-2. Use a model to describe that animals receive different types of information through their senses, process the information in their brain, and respond to the information in different ways.
Vocabulary:
animal senses, handling, humane animal practices, sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch,
flight zone, self-preservation, reaction, feed, handling facility, pasture, monitoring, management
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
August-June
Let your students lead as they create their own village next to the stream at Greenacres. This program is play-based, imagination-driven, and student led. Using the resources at the stream and fossils as our currency, students will decide what they will contribute to the village, the laws, businesses and services all while fostering a sense of community. 3-4 hour program.
Ohio Science Standards
- Fossils can be compared to one another and to present-day organisms according to their similarities and differences.
NGSS Standards
- 3-5-ETS1-1. Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- 3-5-ETS1-2. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards
- Civic Participation and Skills- Civic participation in a democratic society requires individuals to make informed and reasoned decisions by accessing, evaluating and using information effectively to engage in compromise.
- Rules and Laws- Laws can protect rights, provide benefits and assign responsibilities.
- Production and Consumption- Entrepreneurs in Ohio and the United States organize productive resources and take risks to make a profit and compete with other producers.
Vocabulary:
natural resources, capital goods, human resources, supply and demand, profit, consumer, producer, law, community, currency, choices
All life depends on soil. Come learn how this important building block impacts life around Greenacres, and how we create healthier soil through farming practices. We will also experience how soil scientists study the properties of soil.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 4.ESS.3: The surface of Earth changes due to erosion and deposition.
- 4.PS.1: When objects break into smaller pieces, dissolve, or change state, the total amount of matter is conserved.
- 6.ESS.5 Rocks, mineral and soils have common and practical uses.
- 6.ESS.4 Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 2-ESS2-1. Compare multiple solutions designed to slow or prevent wind or water from changing the shape of the land.
- 4-ESS2-1. Make observations and/or measurements to provide evidence of the effects of weathering or the rate of erosion by water, ice, wind, or vegetation.
- 4-ESS2-2. Analyze and interpret data from maps to describe patterns of Earth’s features
- MS-LS2-5. Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services
- MS-ESS2-1. Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
- HS-ESS2-2. Analyze geoscience data to make the claim that one change to Earth's surface can create feedbacks that cause changes to other Earth systems.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
Vocabulary:
soil health, properties, erosion, deposition, matter, minerals, nutrient, weathering
December - February
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. While spending time in the greenhouse and other growing spaces, even in winter, students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about farming through the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-PS3-2.Make observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-PS3-1:Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
- MS-PS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Government - Civic Participation and Skills: Civic participation embraces the ideal that an individual actively engages in his or her community, state or nation for the common good. Students need to practice effective communication skills including negotiation, compromise and collaboration. Skills in accessing and analyzing information are essential for citizens in a democracy.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
Vocabulary: Observation, Investigation, Comparative Question, Data, Analysis
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
August-June
The young adult novel, Hatchet, by Gary Paulsen is the story of how Brian survives on his own after a plane crash in the Canadian wilderness. Students will experience some of Brian’s adventures through hands-on survival skills and knowledge. Students should have completed reading this novel prior to their field trip. This program may also be completed in a series, with each field trip focusing on a different aspect of the novel.
Ohio Language Arts Standards:
- RL.4.2 Analyze literary text development. a. Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text. b. Summarize the text, incorporating a theme determined from details in the text.
- RL.4.3 Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text (e.g., a character’s thoughts, words, or actions).
- RL.4.10 By the end of the year, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poetry, in the grades 4–5 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range. Activate prior knowledge and draw on previous experiences in order to make text-to-self or text-to-text connections and comparisons.
Vocabulary:
Character, Setting, Theme, Survival, Wilderness
September 4 & 5, 2024
Greenacres excitedly welcomes the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Cincinnati Opera, and Cincinnati Ballet each fall for a spectacular performance chronicling miraculous talents all on one stage. John Morris Russel, beloved conductor of the Cincinnati Pops, serves as our guide throughout a live art experience that compares to none. Limited dates and seats are available.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.4.1RE Describe the relationship between music and movement in creating meaning for dances performed or observed.
- DN.4.2RE Demonstrate appropriate audience etiquette.
- MUS.4.1RE Discuss the lives and times of composers from various historical periods and cultures.
- MUS.4.2CO Attend and reflect on music performances demonstrating appropriate audience behavior for the context and style of music performed.
Core Standards:
- Core standards vary based on each year’s theme.
Vocabulary:
composer, conductor, orchestra, opera, ballet, audience, applause
August-October 31; March 15-June
From the creek to the art studio, this program explores all things clay! Students will learn the procedures of hiking to the creek to harvest clay from natural creek beds and processing it in an art studio. This is a hands-on program that includes an uphill hike (weather permitting), so come prepared to get your hands dirty and your body moving! Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. This program only operates in warmer months (August-October 31; March 15-June).
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.4.1PE Engage and persist in artistic risk-taking.
- VA.4.2PE Select and vary materials, tools, and processes to achieve innovative outcomes.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS.4.1 Earth’s surface has specific characteristics and landforms that can be identified.
- NGSS: 4-ESS1-1: Identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.
Vocabulary:
clay, natural resource, hand building, wheel throwing, stages of clay
(Jan 21 to Feb 25, 2026)
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Plan to make observations, ask questions, collect data using scientific tools, and analyze the data you collect. Explore our authentic sugar bush and sugar shack as science comes to life through this hands-on, guided inquiry program. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
- LS Grade 4: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial and sometimes harmful.
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem. All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- LS Grade 7: Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
- MS-LS2-3: Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 4: Geography- The economic development of the United States continues to influence and be influenced by agriculture, industry and natural resources in Ohio.
- SS Grade 5: History- Early Indian civilizations (Maya, Inca, Aztec, Mississippian) existed in the Western Hemisphere prior to the arrival of Europeans. These civilizations had developed unique governments, social structures, religions, technologies, and agricultural practices.
- SS Grade 6: Economics- When selecting items to buy, individuals can weigh costs and benefits and compare the price and quality of available goods and services.
Vocabulary: sugar bush, sugar shack, sap, diameter, density, xylem, phloem, glucose, hypothesis, observation, investigation, comparative question, data, analysis
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
See how our farmers, livestock, and plants use energy and other resources to grow and create food for our community. Through an interactive game, students will work in groups to see the best energy-efficient practices to keep crops alive during a frost, provide water during a drought, and care for the animals on your farm.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 4.PS.2: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
NGSS Standards:
- 4-PS3-2 Energy. Make observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
- 4-PS3-4 Energy. Apply scientific ideas to design, test, and refine a device that converts energy from one form to another.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Places and Regions: The economic development of the United States continues to influence and be influenced by agriculture, industry and natural resources in Ohio
Vocabulary:
Energy, heat energy, solar energy, energy transfer, energy loss, greenhouse, compost
August-June
Join us as we follow the journey of food, from the field to the consumer. Help us figure out how we can make this season’s harvest profitable!
Ohio Science Standards:
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Engineering Design. Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- 4-ESS2-1. Make observations and/or measurements to provide evidence of the effects of weathering or the rate of erosion by water, ice, wind, or vegetation.
- 4-ESS3-2. Generate and compare multiple solutions to reduce the impacts of natural Earth processes on humans.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Places and Regions: The economic development of the United States continues to influence and be influenced by agriculture, industry and natural resources in Ohio
- Geography - Human Systems: People have modified the environment throughout history resulting in both positive and negative consequences in Ohio and the United States
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Entrepreneurs in Ohio and the United States organize productive resources and take risks to make a profit and compete with other producers.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 4.MD.2 Solve real-world problems involving money, time, and metric measurement.
Vocabulary:
farm, product, economics, market, profit, consumer, production, supply and demand
August-June
Greenacres Arts Center shares Cincinnati’s rich and exciting history each season with a different local story. Join us for the day and walk away with pride for Cincinnati’s history, arts, and culture! This program’s content changes in fall, winter, and spring, so you can visit one, two, or three times.
- Fall: The history of The Camargo Hunt and Julius Fleischmann Jr., who built and lived in what is now Greenacres Arts Center.
- Winter: Rookwood Pottery and Greenacres Arts Center’s connection to it.
- Spring: Louis and Louise Dieterle Nippert, who founded Greenacres and left positive impacts all over the Queen City.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.4.3PE Demonstrate leadership when working alone, with partners, and in small groups to improvise and solve movement problems.
- MUS.4.4PE Play a variety of classroom instruments, alone and with others while demonstrating various proper techniques (Fall).
- MUS.4.7RE Explore music created by Ohio artists and determine how their works were influenced by their Ohio roots (Spring).
- VA.4.1CO Explore artists and works of art that impact the history and culture of Ohio.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.4.8 Many technological innovations that originated in Ohio benefited the United States.
- SS.4.10 The economic development of the United States continues to influence and be influenced by agriculture, industry and natural resources in Ohio (Winter, Spring).
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C2.1.b Identify reasons for making positive contributions to the school and community.
Vocabulary:
history, context, impact, environment, community, values
August-June
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Ohio’s natural areas. We will focus on building identification and classification skills and applying them to learning about our environment. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more comfortable in nature.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
NGSS Standards:
- 4-LS1-1. Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
Vocabulary:
observation, discovery, classification
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a poster from a Greenacres educator
August-June
Take a look at the history of Ohio’s land through its ancient ancestors. Learn about a distant past where trilobites and other ancient species ruled the waters of the Ordovician period.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade 4: Fossils can be compared to one another and to present day organisms according to their similarities and differences.
NGSS Standards:
- 4-ESS1-1. Identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.
- 4-ESS2-1. Make observations and/or measurements to provide evidence of the effects of weathering or the rate of erosion by water, ice, wind, or vegetation.
Vocabulary:
erosion, deposition, sediment, Ordovician fossils, glacial erratic, limestone, shale
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a fossil video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
In Ohio, our rivers and streams tell a story. Changes in the landscape are caused by weathering of rock and soil, and by transportation and deposition of sediments. Students will explore the process of erosion and look for signs of weathering here at Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS Grade 4: Earth’s surface has specific characteristics and landforms that can be identified.
- ESS Grade 4: The surface of Earth changes due to weathering.
- ESS Grade 4: The surface of Earth changes due to erosion and deposition.
NGSS Standards:
- 4-ESS1-1. Identify evidence from patterns in rock formations and fossils in rock layers to support an explanation for changes in a landscape over time.
- 4-ESS2-1. Make observations and/or measurements to provide evidence of the effects of weathering or the rate of erosion by water, ice, wind, or vegetation.
Vocabulary:
erosion, weathering, deposition, sediment, landform
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
Horses are acted upon by forces and exert forces on other objects. Students will gain hands-on experience measuring speed and studying the forces that affect our horses.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 5.PS.1 The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
- 5.PS.1.a Movement can be measured by speed. The speed of an object is calculated by determining the distance (d) traveled in a period of time (t).
- 5.PS.1.b Any change in speed or direction of an object requires a force and is affected by the mass of the object and the amount of force applied.
Vocabulary:
force, mass, acceleration, movement, speed, distance, time, balanced force, unbalanced force
August-June
Measurements and conversions are a pivotal part of horse care from feed to speed. Students will measure anything from concentrations in horse food and water to the height of horses and convert them into the units we need to understand them.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 5.MD.1 Know relative sizes of these U.S. customary measurement units: pounds, ounces, miles, yards, feet, inches, gallons, quarts, pints, cups, fluid ounces, hours, minutes, and seconds. Convert between pounds and ounces; miles and feet; yards, feet, and inches; gallons, quarts, pints, cups, and fluid ounces; hours, minutes, and seconds in solving multi-step, real-world problems.
- 5.MD.2 Display and interpret data in graphs (picture graphs, bar graphs, and line plots) to solve problems using numbers and operations for this grade, e.g., including U.S. customary units in fractions 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, or decimals.
Vocabulary:
yards, feet, inches, gallons, quarts, pints, cups, fluid ounces, pounds, ounces, picture graph, bar graph, line graph
August-June
The 1920s English Norman Style architecture of Greenacres Arts Center is a playground for inspiration and for uncovering the beauty and utility of patterns in artwork and architecture. Through organic and geometric shapes hidden in every corner, students will search for designs to inspire their own work of art.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.5.2CR Investigate ideas and inform artmaking through available resources.
- VA.5.3CR Select and use the elements of art and principles of design to investigate interdisciplinary concepts.
- VA.5.2PE Develop technical skills to strengthen artmaking.
- VA.5.3PE Communicate an interdisciplinary concept using the elements of art and principles of design.
Ohio Math Standards:
- Critical Area 5 Classifying two-dimensional figures by properties.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A4.2.b Demonstrate confidence in the ability to complete a range of tasks and address challenges while expressing positive attitudes towards self.
Vocabulary:
pattern, organic, geometric, observation, architecture, artwork
August-June
Spend the day unlocking your students' artistry and creativity! Students will discover different artistic mediums in the visual and performing arts, and learn how the art they enjoy can help them express themselves.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.5.3CR Apply and combine the elements of dance to express ideas, feelings, moods, and personal narratives.
- MUS.5.5RE Justify personal preferences for certain musical pieces, performances, composers, and musical genres both orally and in writing.
- TH.5.3CO Combine at least three art forms to create a theatrical experience.
- VA.5.3RE Evaluate the relationship between works of art and human experiences.
English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.SL.5.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 5 topics and texts, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A2.1.b Identify personal strengths based on interests and qualities.
Vocabulary:
self-expression, portraiture, performance, preference
August-June
Learn how to document nature from an artist's perspective. From the colors and textures in our gardens, to the vibrancy of the artwork in the Arts Center, and to the sounds and smells on our trails, this program will tap into your students’ senses as they slow down and observe their environment. Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.5.2CR Investigate ideas and inform artmaking through available resources.
- DN.5.3PE Demonstrate leadership when working alone, with partners, and in small groups, to improvise and solve movement problems
- MUS.5.3CO Explain how the elements and subject matter of music connect with other subject areas.
- VA.5.2PE Develop technical skills to strengthen artmaking.
Ohio Science Standards:
- PS.5.1.PS.2 Light and sound are forms of energy that behave in predictable ways.
Vocabulary:
documentation, observation, environment, senses
August-June
We dance through life everyday. Discover some of the science behind how our bodies move, and explore how dance and community are integral building blocks in history and culture. This program’s kinesthetic nature will build confidence, collaborative skills, and expression through the lens of dance history, theory, and kinesiology.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.5.1CR Use formal and informal movement studies during choreography and improvisation.
- DN.5.3CR Apply and combine the elements of dance to express ideas, feelings, moods, and personal narratives.
- DN.5.3PE Demonstrate leadership when working alone, with partners, and in small groups, to improvise and solve movement problems.
- DN.5.2CO Recognize and describe features of dance forms and how they represent historical and cultural contexts.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 5.PS.1 The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.5.10 The Western Hemisphere is culturally diverse (eg., language, food, religion, art, music) due to the influences and interactions of a variety of world cultures.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A2.2.b Demonstrate a skill or talent that builds on personal strengths.
- SEL.D1.1.b Apply active listening and effective communication skills to increase cooperation and relationships.
- SEL.E4.1.b Explore new opportunities to expand one’s knowledge and experiences.
Vocabulary:
dance styles, improvise, choreography, community dance, site-specific
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
December - February
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. While spending time in the greenhouse and other growing spaces, even in winter, students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about farming through the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-PS3-2.Make observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-PS3-1:Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
- MS-PS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Government - Civic Participation and Skills: Civic participation embraces the ideal that an individual actively engages in his or her community, state or nation for the common good. Students need to practice effective communication skills including negotiation, compromise and collaboration. Skills in accessing and analyzing information are essential for citizens in a democracy.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
Vocabulary: Observation, Investigation, Comparative Question, Data, Analysis
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
(Jan 21 to Feb 25, 2026)
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Plan to make observations, ask questions, collect data using scientific tools, and analyze the data you collect. Explore our authentic sugar bush and sugar shack as science comes to life through this hands-on, guided inquiry program. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
- LS Grade 4: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial and sometimes harmful.
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem. All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- LS Grade 7: Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
- MS-LS2-3: Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 4: Geography- The economic development of the United States continues to influence and be influenced by agriculture, industry and natural resources in Ohio.
- SS Grade 5: History- Early Indian civilizations (Maya, Inca, Aztec, Mississippian) existed in the Western Hemisphere prior to the arrival of Europeans. These civilizations had developed unique governments, social structures, religions, technologies, and agricultural practices.
- SS Grade 6: Economics- When selecting items to buy, individuals can weigh costs and benefits and compare the price and quality of available goods and services.
Vocabulary: sugar bush, sugar shack, sap, diameter, density, xylem, phloem, glucose, hypothesis, observation, investigation, comparative question, data, analysis
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Ecosystems are always at work on a farm! Join us as we investigate the roles of producers, consumers and decomposers and how they help us everyday.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 5-PS3-1. Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
- 5-PS3-1. Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-LS1-1. Support an argument that plants get the materials they need for growth chiefly from air and water.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Human Systems: The variety of physical environments within the Western Hemisphere influences human activities. Likewise, human activities modify the physical environments.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: The availability of productive resources and the division of labor can have a positive or negative impact on productive capacity
Vocabulary:
producer, consumer, decomposer, ecosystem, compost, livestock, crops
August-June
Old is new again! This field trip is a surprise adventure for students to uncover clues about traditional farming methods of the past and how we have adapted them for the future.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-2 Engineering Design. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- History- Heritage: European exploration and colonization during the 1400s 1600s had lasting effects which can be used to understand the Western Hemisphere today.
- Geography - Human Systems: The variety of physical environments within the Western Hemisphere influences human activities. Likewise, human activities modify the physical environments.
Vocabulary:
traditional farming, beekeeping, seed saving, tools, soil, ley field, crop rotation, livestock
April- October
What’s all the buzz about!? Our food is dependent upon pollination, come see up-close how and who makes it happen!
Ohio Science Standards:
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
NGSS Standards:
- 5-PS3-1. Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- History- Heritage: European exploration and colonization during the 1400s 1600s had lasting effects which can be used to understand the Western Hemisphere today.
- Geography - Human Systems: The variety of physical environments within the Western Hemisphere influences human activities. Likewise, human activities modify the physical environments.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: The availability of productive resources and the division of labor can have a positive or negative impact on productive capacity.
Vocabulary:
pollinators, pollination, parts of a plant, beekeeping, beekeeping equipment, hive
August-June
We all have an inner critic in our minds that tries to bring us down. Through the art of improvisation, we strengthen our inner champion– empowering the ways we can encourage ourselves. Improvisation is rooted in open-mindedness, listening deeply to others, and trusting your own instincts–skills that serve us in every avenue of life. Test out your acting skills and see how easily you can come up with a joke, all while having fun and building confidence with classmates.
Fine Arts Standards:
- TH.5.1PE Work cooperatively in different roles or jobs within a dramatic and theatrical experience.
- TH.5.4RE Identify and critique the elements that impede a performer's effectiveness.
- TH.5.1CO Brainstorm the modes of presentation (film, television, live theatre, improv, vlog) that most effectively elicit thoughts and feelings from a contemporary audience.
Ohio English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.SL.5.4 Report on a topic or text or present an opinion, sequencing ideas logically and using appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details to support main ideas or themes; speak clearly at an understandable pace.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.D1.1.b Apply active listening and effective communication skills to increase cooperation and relationships.
Vocabulary:
collaboration, listening, suggestion, character
August-June
Maps come in all shapes and sizes and they are useful in many different ways. Students will explore how land surfaces are represented on different styles of flat and topographic maps as well as how different maps are used.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 5: Geography - Globes and other geographic tools can be used to gather, process and report information about people, places and environments. Cartographers decide which information to include in maps.
NGSS Standards:
- 5-ESS2-1. Develop a model using an example to describe ways the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and/or atmosphere interact.
Vocabulary:
topography, contours, scale, legend, symbol, degrees, orientation
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. Students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about the environment at Greenacres through the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
NGSS Standards:
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
Vocabulary:
observation, investigation, comparative question, data, analysis
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
This program engages students in a hand-on exploration of our local natural spaces. Students will dive into the world of native plant and animal species found in southern Ohio. Students will explore Greenacres' native species populations and natural habitats. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more comfortable in nature.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- SS Grade 5: Geography- Political, environmental, social and economic factors cause people, products and ideas to move from place to place in the Western Hemisphere and results in diversity.
NGSS Science Standards:
- 5-PS3-1. Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
Vocabulary:
observation, native species, invasive species, population
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Getting food is vital to survival. Students will learn how animals and plants fit into nature’s food web. Come explore Greenacres to find examples of producers, consumers and decomposers.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- LS Grade 5: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
NGSS Standards:
- 5-PS3-1. Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
Vocabulary:
ecosystem, niche, herbivore, omnivore, carnivore, decomposers, food web
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
Horses motion and mass create forces that can be investigated. Students will explore different types of forces found in our equine center, such as Newton’s 1st and 2nd laws of motion, friction, and gravity.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 8.G.8 Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to find the distance between two points in a coordinate system.
- 8.G.7 Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to determine unknown side lengths in right triangles in real-world and mathematical problems in two and three dimensions.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- 8.PS.1 Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
- 8.PS.2 Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
- 8.PS.2.a The motion of an object is always measured with respect to a reference point.
- 8.PS.2.b Forces can be added. The new force on an object is the sum of all of the forces acting on the object.
- 8.PS.2.c If there is a nonzero net force acting on an object, its speed and/or direction will change.
- 8.PS.2.d Kinetic friction and drag are forces that act in a direction opposite the relative motion of objects.
Vocabulary:
mass, force, balanced, unbalanced, gravity, friction, newton’s laws of motion, stationary, non zero net force, drag, speed, direction, reference point, electrostatic
August-June
From running to grazing, activities at the stables happen at different rates. Students will explore relationships among horses and their management practices to create linear equations and graphs.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 8.SP.1 Construct and interpret scatter plots for bivariate measurement data to investigate patterns of association between two quantities. Describe patterns such as clustering; outliers; positive, negative, or no association; and linear association and nonlinear association.
- 8.SP.2 Understand that straight lines are widely used to model relationships between two quantitative variables. For scatter plots that suggest a linear association, informally fit a straight line, and informally assess the model fit by judging the closeness of the data points to the line.
- 8.EE.5 Graph proportional relationships, interpreting the unit rate as the slope of the graph. Compare two different proportional relationships represented in different ways.
- 8.EE.8 Analyze and solve pairs of simultaneous linear equations graphically.
- a. Understand that the solution to a pair of linear equations in two variables corresponds to the point(s) of intersection of their graphs, because the point(s) of intersection satisfy both equations simultaneously.
- b. Solve real-world and mathematical problems leading to pairs of linear equations in two variables. For example, given coordinates for two pairs of points, determine whether the line through the first pair of points intersects the line through the second pair.
Vocabulary:
coordinate pairs, linear, equation, x-axis, y-axis, proportional, model, intersection, variable, scatter plot, outlier, line of best fit, bivariate, clustering, non-linear
August-June
There are hidden triangles in our everyday world. Students will practice applying Pythagoras theorem in equine sports, care, and management to understand how it helps Equestrians be more successful.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 8.G.8 Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to find the distance between two points in a coordinate system.
- 8.G.7 Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to determine unknown side lengths in right triangles in real-world and mathematical problems in two and three dimensions.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
Vocabulary:
coordinate plane, Pythagorean Theorem, hypotenuse, base, equation, variable, trait, inheritance, characteristics, 2D, 3D, triangle
August-June
Within a natural system, the transfer of energy drives the motion and/or cycling of matter. Students will design a horse farm and explore the types of energy and energy transfers to determine the most efficient management practices.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 7.PS.2 - Matter can be separated or changed, but in a closed system, the number and types of atoms remains constant.
- 7.PS.3 - Energy can be transformed or transferred but is never lost.
- 7.PS.4 - Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
- 7.LS.1 - Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 7.LS.2 - In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors.
Vocabulary:
matter, conservation, system, mechanical energy, elastic potential energy, electrical potential energy, chemical energy, gravitational potential energy, kinetic energy, photosynthesis, transform, transfer
August-June
Equations are helpful to figure out the best options for horse care and management. Students will explore different aspects of stable management to create equations related to the cost of care.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 7.EE.2 In a problem context, understand that rewriting an expression in an equivalent form can reveal and explain properties of the quantities represented by the expression and can reveal how those quantities are related.
- 7.EE.4 Use variables to represent quantities in a real-world or mathematical problem, and construct simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.
- 7.EE.4 a. Solve word problems leading to equations of the form px + q = r and p(x + q) = r, where p, q, and r are specific rational numbers. Solve equations of these forms fluently. Compare an algebraic solution to an arithmetic solution, identifying the sequence of the operations used in each approach.
Vocabulary:
equation, rational number, expression, operations, sequence, equivalent, quantities, algebraic, arithmetic
August-June
Taking care of horses is a full time job. Students will explore and calculate what it takes to run and maintain our stables and horses.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 7.RP.1 Compute unit rates associated with ratios of fractions, including ratios of lengths, areas, and other quantities measured in like or different units.
- 7.G.4 Work with circles.
- Explore and understand the relationships among the circumference, diameter, area, and radius of a circle.
- Know and use the formulas for the area and circumference of a circle and use them to solve real-world and mathematical problems.
- 7.G.1 Solve problems involving similar figures with right triangles, other triangles, and special quadrilaterals.
Vocabulary:
quantity, area, fraction, inequalities, equation, ratio, unit, conversion, rates, percentage, circumference, diameter, radius, right triangle, quadrilaterals.
August-June
Math is used everyday in horse care and management. Students will use horses, the tools equestrians use to care for them, and the places horses live and work to explore ratios and equations.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 6.RP.1 Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a ratio relationship between two quantities
- 6.RP.2 Understand the concept of a unit rate associated with a ratio
- 6.RP.3 Use ratio and rate reasoning to solve real world and mathematical problems
Vocabulary:
Ratio, numerator, denominator, rate, unit, percentage, conversion, equivalent, multiples, fraction, division
August-June
Cells make up everything from horses to hay. Students will explore cells, body systems, and more on the farm through hands-on equine experiences.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 6.LS.1 Cells are the fundamental unit of life.
- 6.LS.2 All cells come from pre-existing cells.
- 6.LS.3 Cells carry on specific functions that sustain life.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
Vocabulary:
plant cell, animal cell, mitosis, cell division, tissue, organ, body systems, traits, homeostasis, respiratory, digestive, circulatory, muscular, chromosomes, multi-cellular, DNA
August-June
Math is used every day in horse care and management. Students will use horses, the tools equestrians use to care for them, and the places horses live and work to explore polygons, volume, and equations.
Ohio Math Standards:
- 6.EE.2 Write, read and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers
- 6.G.1 Find the area of polygons and apply these techniques in the context of solving real world and mathematical problems
- 6.G.2 Find the volume of a right rectangular prism with fractional edge lengths by packing it with unit cubes of the appropriate unit fraction edge lengths and show that the volume is the same as would be found by multiplying the edge lengths of the prism. Apply the formulas V = l⋅w⋅h and V = B⋅h to find volumes of right rectangular prisms with fractional edge lengths in the context of solving real-world and mathematical problems.
Vocabulary:
Polygon, volume, equation, base, height, area, triangle, rectangle, square, hexagon, cube, 2D, 3D
August-June
Challenge the traditional boundaries of what you think art should be and where it should be experienced. Join us at Greenacres Arts Center to use innovative and unconventional art making practices to be creative and to expand our perspectives about the arts’ purpose in our lives. This program is easily customizable for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade arts and core standards.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.8.2CO Examine and discuss ways various external contexts impact dance and articulate how meaning in dance is communicated and understood.
- MUS.7.1CO Analyze the meaning and expression of variety in live or recorded music performances.
- VA.6.2PR Experiment with a variety of techniques and working methods when creating an original work of art.
- TH.7.3PE Construct and produce the technical components for a script using art or media to present design ideas.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.A1.2.c Explain that emotions may vary based on the situation, including people and places.
Vocabulary:
site-specific, context, collaborate, proscenium, round, chance music, installation
August-June
Join us as we investigate the meaning of Sustainable Agriculture! Learn how we can establish productive farmland for future generations by utilizing our natural world to guide our farming methods.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS2-1 Earth's Systems. Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth's materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
- MS-ESS3-3 Earth and Human Activity. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
- MS-ESS3-4 Earth and Human Activity. Construct an argument supported by evidence for how increases in human population and per-capita consumption of natural resources impact Earth's systems.
- MS-LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem
- MS-LS2-5 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- History - First Global Age: The Columbian exchange (i.e., the exchange of fauna, flora and pathogens) among previously unconnected parts of the world reshaped societies in ways still evident today.
- Geography - Human Systems: Improvements in transportation, communication and technology have facilitated cultural diffusion among peoples around the world.
- Government - Civic Participation and Skills: Analyzing individual and group perspectives is essential to understanding historic and contemporary issues. Opportunities for civic engagement exist for students to connect real-world issues and events to classroom learning.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Individuals, governments and businesses must analyze costs and benefits when making economic decisions. A cost- benefit analysis consists of determining the potential costs and benefits of an action and then balancing the costs against the benefits.
Vocabulary:
Farming, sustainability, sustainable agriculture, methods, structure, function, soil, energy resources, biodiversity, ecosystem, cycle, organism
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
August 2025-June 2026
Students will work together as a team to sharpen their observation skills and solve escape room style puzzles all while engaging in hands-on nature exploration. In this outdoor simulation, we need the help of your students to protect the biodiversity of our land and save Greenacres from the dreaded Deforester! (at Spooky Hollow Farm site only)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 6-8: Apply knowledge of science content to real-world challenges.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment
- MS-PS1-2. Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
Vocabulary: Biodiversity, awareness, observation, neutralize
August-June
Do your students have a strong sense of creativity? A passion for certain types of art or performing? Do you want to give them the chance to discover something new through interdisciplinary studies? Our Arts Educators can customize programs and activities into a personalized program that can excite students’ interests.
August-June
Through competition, nature passes the strongest traits onto the next generation. Using nature as a guide, see how our farmers use the same concept to improve our herds and gardens for production and taste!
Ohio Science Standards:
- 8.LS.1 Diversity of species, a result of variation of traits, occurs through the process of evolution and extinction over many generations. The fossil records provide evidence that changes have occurred in number and types of species.
- 8.LS.2 Every organism alive today comes from a long line of ancestors who reproduced successfully every generation.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- MS-LS1-1. Conduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made of cells; either one cell or many different numbers and types of cells.
- MS-LS1-2.Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways the parts of cells contribute to the function.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS1-5 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5. Gather and synthesize information about technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Choices made by individuals, businesses and governments have both present and future consequences.
Vocabulary:
genetics, breeds, natural selection, genetic traits, adaptations, farming, livestock, crops
December - February
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. While spending time in the greenhouse and other growing spaces, even in winter, students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about farming through the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-PS3-2.Make observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-PS3-1:Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
- MS-PS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Government - Civic Participation and Skills: Civic participation embraces the ideal that an individual actively engages in his or her community, state or nation for the common good. Students need to practice effective communication skills including negotiation, compromise and collaboration. Skills in accessing and analyzing information are essential for citizens in a democracy.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
Vocabulary: Observation, Investigation, Comparative Question, Data, Analysis
August-June
Maps come in all shapes and sizes and they are useful in many different ways. Students will explore how land surfaces are represented on different styles of flat and topographic maps as well as how different maps are used.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 8.ESS.4 Evidence of the dynamic changes of Earth’s surface through time is found in the geologic record.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 7 - Maps and other geographic representations can be used to trace the development of human settlement over time.
- SS Grade 8 - Modern and historical maps and other geographic tools are used to analyze how historic events are shaped by geography
Vocabulary:
topography, contours, scale, legend, symbol, degrees, orientation
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
August-June
The Performing arts come to life through engagement between the performers and the audience. At Greenacres Arts Center, you can try out both roles. Some types of performances have movement and dance, some have actors and a set, and others have instruments and music. All you need to succeed at Greenacres is an open mind and a pinch of bravery! This program is easily customizable for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade arts and core standards.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.6.7.2CR Create a movement study using stimuli (music, observed dance, literary forms, notation, natural phenomena, personal experience).
- DN.6.7.8.2PE Demonstrate kinesthetic awareness of the expressive body as it moves and feels in relation to the elements of dance.
- MUS.6.6PE Maintain simple, four- and eight-beat rhythmic ostinati with a recorded accompaniment.
- TH.6.6CR Engage in ensemble-building activities to build character, emotion, mood, and tone.
English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.RL.8.3 Analyze how particular lines of dialogue or incidents in a story or drama propel the action, reveal aspects of a character, or provoke a decision.
Vocabulary:
entertainment, ensemble, accompaniment, choreography
August-June
Utilize an exclusive rotating exhibition at Greenacres Arts Center to create one-of-a-kind pieces through experimentation with the 5-step creative process: preparation, incubation, illumination, evaluation, and verification (similar to the scientific method). This program will feature artworks made by local artists who were inspired by Greenacres. This program is easily customizable for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade arts and core standards.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.6.3CO Link observations, life experiences, and imagination for personal and creative expression.
- VA.6.2CR Brainstorm and experiment independently with ideas.
- DN.7.2CR Create movement studies using a variety of stimuli (music, observed dance, literary forms, notation, natural phenomena, personal experience).
- MUS.6.4RE Create interpretations of music via dance, drama, and visual art using appropriate vocabulary.
- TH.6.5CE Compare and contrast the creative processes of other art forms (e.g., dance, music, visual and media arts) to those of drama and theatre.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS.7.7 Analyzing individual and group perspectives is essential to understanding historic and contemporary issues. Opportunities for civic engagement exist for students to connect real-world issues and events to classroom learning.
Vocabulary:
process, experimentation, inspiration, exhibition
August-June
Art and music have an important and long-lasting relationship with entertainment. Join us as we explore the many ways that art and music cross disciplines. This program places a strong emphasis on the art of sound and its role in the film industry. This program is easily adaptable to suit 6th, 7th, or 8th grade arts and core standards.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.6.2PE Discover and articulate how the media forms of the day use art and images to communicate messages and meaning
- MU.6.6CE Describe roles and skills musicians assume in various cultures and settings.
- MU.6.4RE Describe ways that music relates to other art forms using appropriate terminology.
Ohio English Language Standards:
- SL.6.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 6 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.
Vocabulary:
Foley Artist, improvise, entertainment, experiment, storyboard, film score
(Jan 21 to Feb 25, 2026)
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Plan to make observations, ask questions, collect data using scientific tools, and analyze the data you collect. Explore our authentic sugar bush and sugar shack as science comes to life through this hands-on, guided inquiry program. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
- LS Grade 4: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial and sometimes harmful.
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem. All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- LS Grade 7: Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
- MS-LS2-3: Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 4: Geography- The economic development of the United States continues to influence and be influenced by agriculture, industry and natural resources in Ohio.
- SS Grade 5: History- Early Indian civilizations (Maya, Inca, Aztec, Mississippian) existed in the Western Hemisphere prior to the arrival of Europeans. These civilizations had developed unique governments, social structures, religions, technologies, and agricultural practices.
- SS Grade 6: Economics- When selecting items to buy, individuals can weigh costs and benefits and compare the price and quality of available goods and services.
Vocabulary: sugar bush, sugar shack, sap, diameter, density, xylem, phloem, glucose, hypothesis, observation, investigation, comparative question, data, analysis
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Join us as we follow the journey of food, from the field to the consumer. Help us figure out how we can make this season’s harvest profitable!
Ohio Math Standards:
- 6.EE.2 Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
- 6.EE.9 Use variables to represent two quantities in a real-world problem that change in relationship to one another; write an equation to express one quantity, thought of as the dependent variable, in terms of the other quantity, thought of as the independent variable. Analyze the relationship between the dependent and independent variables using graphs and tables, and relate these to the equation.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS3-4 Earth and Human Activity. Construct an argument supported by evidence for how increases in human population and per-capita consumption of natural resources impact Earth's systems.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- Economics - Markets: The interaction of supply and demand, influenced by competition, helps to determine price in a market. This interaction also determines the quantities of outputs produced and the quantities of productive resources (entrepreneurship, human resources, natural resources and capital) used.
- Economics - Financial Literacy: When selecting items to buy, individuals can weigh costs and benefits and compare the price and quality of available goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farm, product, economics, market, profit, consumer, production, supply and demand
August-June
All life depends on soil. Come learn how this important building block impacts life around Greenacres, and how we create healthier soil through farming practices. We will also experience how soil scientists study the properties of soil.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 6.ESS.5 Rocks, mineral and soils have common and practical uses.
- 6.ESS.4 Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS2-4 Earth's Systems. Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
- MS-ESS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
- MS-LS1-6 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS2-3 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
- MS-LS2-5 Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics - Markets: The interaction of supply and demand, influenced by competition, helps to determine price in a market. This interaction also determines the quantities of outputs produced and the quantities of productive resources (entrepreneurship, human resources, natural resources and capital) used.
Vocabulary:
soil, soil properties, organic matter, air, water, microbes, soil tools, compost
August-June
Let your imagination run wild in the storybook-like setting of the Greenacres Arts Center as we explore the building, gardens, and trails. Students will delve into characters, setting, POV, plot, and theme to create their very own three-dimensional tale. This program is easily customizable for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade arts and core standards.
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.6.1PE Describe how art and design elements and principles are used in artworks to produce certain visual effects and create meaning.
- VA.8.4PR Present personal artworks that show competence in the use of art elements to create meanings and effects.
Ohio English Language Standards:
- ELA.8.W.7.3 Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
Vocabulary:
imagine, observe, describe, verbalize
August-June
This program focuses on the power and force of running water as it shapes our dynamic Earth. Students will investigate the physical features of a stream, collect and analyze stream flow data, and discover how human activities have impacted stream ecosystems.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS Grade 8: A combination of constructive and destructive geologic processes formed Earth’s surface.
- ESS Grade 8: Evidence of the dynamic changes of Earth’s surface through time is found in the geologic record.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS2-2. Construct an explanation based on evidence for how geoscience processes have changed Earth’s surface at varying time and spatial scales
- MS-ESS2-4. Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth’s systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
- MS-ESS3-1. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how the uneven distributions of Earth’s mineral, energy, and groundwater resources are the result of past and current geoscience processes
- MS-ESS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 8: Geography - Modern and historical maps and other geographic tools are used to analyze how historic events are shaped by geography.
Vocabulary:
erosion, deposition, rate of flow, water cycle, ordovician fossils
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Water is ever-moving, with no beginning or end. Streams, oceans, clouds, plants and humans are all a part of this cycle. Students will describe the movement of water within the water cycle and look for evidence in and around Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS Grade 7: The hydrologic cycle illustrates the changing states of water as it moves through the lithosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere.
NGSS Standards:
- MS.LS2.1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
- MS.ESS2.4. Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth’s systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
Vocabulary:
precipitation, condensation, evaporation, watershed, point and non-point pollution
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Scientific Inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. Students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about the environment at Greenacres through the inquiry process
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-LS1-4. Use arguments based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
Vocabulary:
observation, investigation, comparative question, data, analysis
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
While exploring rocks and minerals, students will uncover millions of years of history using simple geologic tests. Students will view the landscape at Greenacres and, using a dichotomous key, determine what types of rocks and minerals are found in Ohio.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS Grade 6: Minerals have specific, quantifiable properties.
- ESS Grade 6: Igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks have unique characteristics that can be used for identification and/or classification.
- ESS Grade 6: Igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks form in different ways.
- ESS Grade 6: Rocks, minerals and soils have common and practical uses.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS2-1. Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
- MS-ESS2-2. Construct an explanation based on evidence for how geoscience processes have changed Earth’s surface at varying time and spatial scales
Vocabulary:
Igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic, minerals, dichotomous key, hardness
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Soil is a natural resource that provides the foundation for producing our food, shelter, fuel. It also provides the surface on which to build our buildings and cities. Students will get a bit dirty as they compare soils in different habitats at Greenacres and examine the past environment in which they formed.
Ohio Science Standards:
- ESS Grade 6: Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
- ESS Grade 6: Rocks, minerals and soils have common and practical uses.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS2-1. Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
- MS-ESS2-2. Construct an explanation based on evidence for how geoscience processes have changed Earth’s surface at varying time and spatial scales.
- MS-ESS3-1. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how the uneven distributions of Earth’s mineral, energy, and groundwater resources are the result of past and current geoscience processes.
Vocabulary:
erosion, deposition, soil, humus, inorganic, organic
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
The health of a stream can be assessed in several different ways. Students will perform chemical, physical, and biological studies of a local Greenacres stream, and make conclusions about stream health and impacts of human activity on surface waters.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-PS1-2. Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
- MS-ESS3-1. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how the uneven distributions of Earth’s mineral, energy, and groundwater resources are the result of past and current geoscience processes.
- MS-ESS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.
Vocabulary:
biological, physical, chemical, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, macroinvertebrate
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Energy is constantly moving in and through an ecosystem. Students will conduct a survey of stream, field, and forest habitats at Greenacres and learn about the interrelationships between the organisms that they have observed as well as the movements of matter and energy throughout the ecosystem.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade 7: Matter is transferred continuously between one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- LS Grade 7: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
- LS Grade 7: In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-LS1-4. Use arguments based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS1-6. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms
- MS-LS2-2. Construct an explanation that predicts patterns of interactions among organisms across multiple ecosystems.
- MS-LS2-4. Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.
Vocabulary:
food web, carnivore, omnivore, herbivore, ecosystem, population dynamics
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a poster from a Greenacres educator
August-June
Give your students the chance to slow down and focus their attention on nature. Students will write, draw and count or measure what they see around them as they visit different ecosystems at Greenacres. This program can be used to inspire creativity and knowledge of the natural world through drawing, writing poems or story telling
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- LS Grade 6: Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
Ohio Language Arts Standards:
- W.6.3-Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 6: Government- Different perspectives on a topic can be obtained from a variety of historic and contemporary sources. Sources can be examined for accuracy.
Vocabulary:
observation, exploration, investigation
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a poster from a Greenacres educator
- All
- Career Tech
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
Join us on the farm to learn more about agricultural careers. Students will explore garden and equine job skills as well as discover the power of team building in a collaborative work environment.
Agricultural and Environmental Systems Content Standards:
- 1.1.1. Identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to succeed in careers.
- 1.1.2. Identify the scope of career opportunities and the requirements for education, training, certification, licensure, and experience.
- 1.1.6. Explain the importance of work ethic, accountability, and responsibility and demonstrate associated behaviors in fulfilling personal, community, and workplace roles.
- 1.1.7. Apply problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to work-related issues when making decisions and formulating solutions.
- 1.1.8. Identify the correlation between emotions, behavior, and appearance and manage those to establish and maintain professionalism.
- 1.1.9. Give and receive constructive feedback to improve work habits.
Animal Science, Outcome 2.3 Care and Management:
- 2.3.1. Identify species-specific terminology (gender, age, reproductive status).
- 2.3.3. Determine the biotic and abiotic factors (e.g. air, ventilation) that impact the animal's environment.
- 2.3.8. Evaluate and perform animal care procedures aligned with industry standards throughout the life of the animal.
- 2.3.9. Monitor and evaluate the quality of an animal's habitat and implement corrective methods as needed.
Ohio Standards:
- Financial Literacy.
- 3. Competencies (knowledge and skills), commitment (motivation and enthusiasm), competition (globalization and automation), training, work ethic, abilities and attitude are all factors impacting one’s earning potential and employability.
Vocabulary:
careers, accountability, responsibility, training, certification, licensure, biotic and abiotic factors, globalization, automation, employability
August-June
Have you ever wondered what it takes to run a successful garden? What skills or experience are needed to become a farmer? Explore with us to learn what farmers do day-to-day to keep the flowers and vegetables growing in our production garden. Students will gain insight into this career to explore their own options for the future!
Agricultural and Environmental Systems Content Standards:
- 1.1.1. Identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to succeed in careers.
- 6.1.4. Identify and describe factors (e.g., climate, soil texture, mineralogy, soil organisms, drainage co-efficient, land use, vegetation types, management practices) affecting organic matter and its function in soil quality.
Ohio Standards:
- Financial Literacy
- 3. Competencies (knowledge and skills), commitment (motivation and enthusiasm), competition (globalization and automation), training, work ethic, abilities and attitude are all factors impacting one’s earning potential and employability.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS2-6. Evaluate claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics and Financial Literacy - Working and Earning: Income is determined by many factors including individual skills and abilities, work ethic and market conditions
- Geography - Environment and Society: Human societies use a variety of strategies to adapt to the opportunities and constraints presented by the physical environment (e.g., farming in flood plains and terraced farming, building hydroelectric plants by waterfalls and constructing hydroelectric dams, using solar panels as heat source and using extra insulation to retain heat).
Vocabulary:
Production Garden, Garden Manager, Garden Field Coordinator, Garden Apprentice, Harvest, Ley Rotation, Greenhouse, Agriculture n
August-June
Taking care of animals is a lot of work! Students will learn what goes into taking care of a herd of horses. They will get hands-on experience in equine husbandry to better understand what it means to be an animal caretaker.
Ohio Career Tech Standards:
- 2.3.9. Monitor and evaluate the quality of an animal's habitat and implement corrective methods as needed.
- 2.3.10. Recognize common restraints and tack devices for handling including their use and adjustments.
- 2.3.11. Groom animals through brushing, bathing, and therapeutic treatments.
- 2.3.12. Assess the nails and hooves of animals and understand the practice of trimming and treating for specific species.
- 2.3.13. Compare and contrast different standards of grooming and styling techniques for specific animal species and breeds.
- 2.2.1. Describe external anatomical parts and their functions within different species.
- 2.2.7. Describe the components of the cardiovascular system and their functions, including factors affecting blood flow.
- 2.2.10. Identify and describe the function and components of the respiratory system and pulmonary ventilation and the factors influencing respiratory rates.
- 2.1.1 Identify the traditional and alternative types, compositions, quality, and compatibility of feedstuff, feed additives, and feed byproducts.
- 2.1.2. Describe the role of nutrients and nutritional requirements of different animal life processes and species.
- 2.2.2. Compare and contrast the anatomical parts of the digestive system(s) and describe their physiology within different species.
Vocabulary:
Curry comb, hardbrush, hoof pick, frog, sole, whiteline, horseshoe, corium, coffin bone, lamina, hoof wall, heel bulbs, abscess, withers, laminitis, roughages, concentrates, bolus, colic, pasture rotation, foregut, hindgut, manure
August-June
Without the arts in our community, we would lack in entertainment and creative outlets that make the world a better place. Join the Arts Educators to discover how artists fit into the larger community, and the paths you can take to engage with the arts in your lives.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.HSP.3CO Explore how 21st-century skills developed in dance translate to a chosen career path.
- MUS.HSP.5CO Demonstrate knowledge of potential musical career choices.
- TH.HSP.7CO Discuss the importance of drama and theatre in a community and provide examples.
- VA.HSAD.2CO Demonstrate personal strategies for lifelong involvement and advocacy in the visual arts.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C2.4.d Evaluate the impact of personal involvement in an activity to improve school, home, community and world.
Vocabulary:
audition, contract, rehearse, résumé, artist, advocacy
August-June
For ages, people have explored how to use their voice to confidently say what they mean. We will empower students to present themselves in front of peers through the light-hearted lens of improv comedy. We will also gather inspiration from visual artists who used their works to speak their minds.
Fine Arts Standards:
- TH.HSP.1PE Manipulate vocal qualities, posture, movement, and language to express variety in characters during improvisation and dramatic situations.
- TH.HSP.2PE Demonstrate the collaborative skills necessary for producing a scene with a unified vision.
- VA.HSP.1CO Understand how works of art reflect diverse communities, viewpoints, and perspectives.
English Language Arts Standards:
- SL.11-12.3 Evaluate a speaker’s perspective, reasoning, and use of evidence and rhetoric, assessing the stance, premises, links among ideas, word choice, points of emphasis, and tone used.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.C1.3.d Demonstrate empathy through compassion in self and encourage in others.
Vocabulary:
listening, support, confidence, inner-champion, zines
August-June
Using tools and practices centered around creativity and mindfulness, experience the calming effects of art, music, and mindful movement. This program supports the “love and belonging” and “esteem” stages of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and focuses on Whole Student Education. We will empower students by sharing self-regulation strategies that can support them when the strain of friendships, school, or work become overwhelming.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.HSP.4PE Recognizes the mind-body connection in dance technique and performance.
- MUS.HSP.4CO Describe the purpose and value of music in various cultures and settings.
- VA.HSP.2CR Explore multiple solutions to artistic problems.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.HS.D2.3.d Develop techniques to empower, encourage and affirm oneself and others, maintaining positive, healthy relationships.
- SEL.HS.B1.1.d Utilize self-management strategies to regulate thoughts, emotions and behaviors within the context of the situation.
Vocabulary:
mindfulness, reflection, mental health, regulate
August-June
Visit Greenacres Arts Center for an experience all about an exclusive rotating art exhibition by local artists who gathered inspiration from their time at the Greenacres Artist Weekend. Students will practice visual analysis, art criticism, and strategies for interpreting artworks. Schedule permitting, this program could include time with artists from the exhibition
Fine Arts Standards:
- VA.HSP.3CR Identify visual literacy strategies as a means to communicate concepts.
- VA.HSP.3RE Utilize art criticism methods when responding to works of art.
- VA.HSP.1CO Understand how works of art reflect diverse communities, viewpoints, and perspectives.
- VA.HSP.2CO Recognize contributions of the visual arts in everyday life.
English Language Arts Standards:
- ELA.SL.9-10.1/SL.11-12.1 Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grades 9–10/11-12 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
*Standards may be customized to fit your classroom's needs.
Vocabulary:
gallery, curation, description, visual analysis, interpretation, opinion
August-June
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a farmer? What jobs are needed on a farm to have a successful livestock operation? Visit Greenacres to experience how our farm hands care for animals, see agricultural research in action, and learn more about how we get our products into the hands of customers! Together we will explore various career pathways related to agriculture and livestock to help you consider your own pathway!
Agricultural and Environmental Systems Content Standards:
- 1.1.1. Identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to succeed in careers.
- 1.10.1. Identify how the roles of sales, advertising, and public relations contribute to a company’s brand.
- 3.1.11. Draw conclusions based on observations and data analyses, recognizing that experimental results must be open to the scrutiny of others.
- 5.15.11. Identify methods to minimize animal stress and safety (physiology, psychological, and nutritional).
Ohio Standards:
- B.DI.1: Biodiversity
- B.DI.2: Ecosystems
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- Financial Literacy
- 2. Financial responsibility involves lifelong decision-making strategies which include consideration of alternatives and consequences.
- 3. Competencies (knowledge and skills), commitment (motivation and enthusiasm), competition (globalization and automation), training, work ethic, abilities and attitude are all factors impacting one’s earning potential and employability.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS2-6. Evaluate claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics and Financial Literacy - Working and Earning: Income is determined by many factors including individual skills and abilities, work ethic and market conditions
- Geography - Environment and Society: Human societies use a variety of strategies to adapt to the opportunities and constraints presented by the physical environment (e.g., farming in flood plains and terraced farming, building hydroelectric plants by waterfalls and constructing hydroelectric dams, using solar panels as heat source and using extra insulation to retain heat).
Vocabulary:
farm hand, agricultural research, farm market management, marketing, holistic management, pasture, livestock, production
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
August-June
Students will work together as a team to sharpen their observation skills and solve escape room style puzzles all while engaging in hands-on nature exploration. In this outdoor simulation, we need the help of your students to protect the biodiversity of our land and save Greenacres from the dreaded Deforester! (at Spooky Hollow Farm site only).
Ohio Science Standards
- B.DI.1: Biodiversity - Species diversity
- SHE: Science depends on curiosity, imagination, creativity and persistence
- ENV.GP.5: Species depletion and extinction
- ENV.GP.8: Deforestation and loss of biodiversity
- HS-LS2-7: Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity
- HS-LS4-6:Create or revise a simulation to test a solution to mitigate adverse impacts of human activity on biodiversity.
Vocabulary: Biodiversity, awareness, observation, neutralize
August 2025-June 2026
Students will work together as a team to sharpen their observation skills and solve escape room style puzzles all while engaging in hands-on nature exploration. In this outdoor simulation, we need the help of your students to protect the biodiversity of our land and save Greenacres from the dreaded Deforester! (at Spooky Hollow Farm site only)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 6-8: Apply knowledge of science content to real-world challenges.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment
- MS-PS1-2. Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
Vocabulary: Biodiversity, awareness, observation, neutralize
August-June
Do your students have a strong sense of creativity? A passion for certain types of visual or performing arts? Give them the chance to discover something new through interdisciplinary studies at Greenacres Arts Center. If there are standards you are looking to support, our Arts Educators can customize programs and activities into a personalized program that can excite students’ interests.
August-June
Take center stage at the Arts Center and put your creative instincts to practice! Through music and theatre, work with your classmates to discover performance techniques that can be valuable in many areas of life, and find the pride to star in a final performance.
Fine Arts Standards:
- DN.HSP.1PE Perform movement studies demonstrating expression and clarity of intent.
- MUS.ENN.7PE Recognize and describe how to refine individual and ensemble performances of varied repertoire in a rehearsal setting.
- TH.HSP.2PE Demonstrate the collaborative skills necessary for producing a scene with a unified vision.
Social and Emotional Learning Standards:
- SEL.D1. 2.d Apply constructive feedback to strengthen connections and achieve common goals
Vocabulary:
script, ensemble, inspiration
August-June
Awareness of your surroundings can lead to a deeper connection with nature, and with yourself. Walk silently through the forest, hear the quietest sounds, see the smallest movement. Students will use these skills as they experience Greenacres and connect to nature and themselves in a deep and authentic way.
Ohio Science Standards
- SWK l: Various science disciplines use diverse methods to obtain evidence and do not always use the same set of procedures to obtain and analyze data
- SHE: Science depends on curiosity, imagination, creativity and persistence.
- SHE: Science and engineering are influenced by technological advances and society; technological advances and society are influenced by science and engineering
Vocabulary: awareness, sit spot, observation, hypothesis
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a mushroom poster from a Greenacres educator
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a bird poster from a Greenacres educator
August-June
The USDA uses zones to define certain growing areas. Our farm, located in zone 6b, faces challenges from weather, pests, and soil conditions. Join us as we learn and engage with the farmers as they tackle and solve daily challenges in our zone.
Ohio Science Standards:
- B.DI.1: Biodiversity
- B.DI.2: Ecosystems
- B.DI.3: Loss of diversity
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS2-2. Use mathematical representations to support and revise explanations based on evidence about factors affecting biodiversity and populations in ecosystems of different scales.
- HS-LS2-4. Use mathematical representations to support claims for the cycling of matter and flow of energy among organisms in an ecosystem.
- HS-LS2-6. Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem.
- HS-LS4-5. Evaluate the evidence supporting claims that changes in environmental conditions may result in (1) increases in the number of individuals of some species, (2) the emergence of new species over time, and (3) the extinction of other species.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Maps and other geographic representations can be used to trace the development of human settlement over time.
- Geography - Human Systems: Geographic factors promote or impede the movement of people, products and ideas.
- Economics - Scarcity: The variability in the distribution of productive resources in the various regions of the world contributed to specialization, trade and interdependence.
Vocabulary:
zone, mapping, crop, seeds, cultivation, season, temperature, region, germination, heirloom, microclimate, diversity
December - February
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. While spending time in the greenhouse and other growing spaces, even in winter, students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about farming through the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-PS3-2.Make observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-PS3-1:Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
- MS-PS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Government - Civic Participation and Skills: Civic participation embraces the ideal that an individual actively engages in his or her community, state or nation for the common good. Students need to practice effective communication skills including negotiation, compromise and collaboration. Skills in accessing and analyzing information are essential for citizens in a democracy.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
Vocabulary: Observation, Investigation, Comparative Question, Data, Analysis
August-June
How clean is our local water? Collect data on the health of our water by assessing biological, physical and chemical parameters of our nearby creek. Explore our local watershed and unique topography to discover where our water travels. Students will make conclusions about water quality and impacts of human activity on surface waters.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK: Various science disciplines use diverse methods to obtain evidence and do not always use the same set of procedures to obtain and analyze data
- SHE: Science depends on curiosity, imagination, creativity and persistence
- SHE: Science and engineering are influenced by technological advances and society; technological advances and society are influenced by science and engineering
- C.IM.1: Chemical reactions - Acids/bases
- ENV.ES.4: Hydrosphere-Surface and groundwater flow patterns and movement
- ENV.ER.3: Water and water pollution-Potable water and water quality
- ENV.GP.2: Potable water quality, use and availability
NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity
- HS-ESS2-5. Plan and conduct an investigation of the properties of water and its effects on Earth materials and surface processes
Vocabulary:
biological, physical, chemical, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, macroinvertebrate
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a video with a Greenacres educator
This program builds on students’ understanding of geography, mapping and spatial thinking. Students will explore how land surfaces are represented on different styles of flat and topographic maps as well as how different maps have been used through time.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SHE: Science depends on curiosity, imagination, creativity and persistence
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- World Geography: Properties and functions of geographic representations (e.g., maps, globes, graphs, diagrams, Internet-based mapping applications, geographic information systems, global positioning systems, remote sensing, and geographic visualizations) affect how they can be used to represent, analyze and interpret geographic patterns and processes.
- World Geography: Geographic representations and geospatial technologies are used to investigate, analyze and communicate the results of geographic problem solving.
Vocabulary:
topography, contours, scale, legend, symbol, degrees, orientation
August-June
The connections and interactions of energy and matter between Earth’s spheres are shown during the study of the unique habitats at Greenacres. Students will investigate the interconnectedness within habitats and the understanding of the complex relationships between them, including both abiotic and biotic factors. Students will conduct research that includes looking at population dynamics and carrying capacity.
Ohio Science Standards:
- B.DI.1: Biodiversity - Species diversity
- B.DI.2: Ecosystems - Equilibrium and disequilibrium
- B.DI.3: Loss of Diversity - Invasive species
- ENV.ES.1: Biosphere - Ecosystems (equilibrium, species interactions, stability), population dynamics
- ENV.ES.5: Movement of matter and energy through the hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere and biosphere-Ecosystems
- ENV.ER.1: Energy resources - Renewable and nonrenewable energy sources and efficiency
NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS4-4. Construct an explanation based on evidence for how natural selection leads to adaptation of populations.
- HS-LS4-5. Evaluate the evidence supporting claims that changes in environmental conditions may result in (1) increases in the number of individuals of some species, (2) the emergence of new species over time, and (3) the extinction of other species.
Vocabulary:
Ecosystem, population dynamics, habitat, species interactions
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
August-June
On this journey, we’ll answer the question: what exactly is sustainable agriculture? Then, you lead the way as we go on a fictional quest to build your own sustainable farm!
Ohio Science Standards:
- ENV.ER.1: Energy resources
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Industrialization and Progressivism: The rise of corporations, heavy industry, mechanized farming and technological innovations transformed the American economy from an agrarian to an increasingly urban industrial society.
- Social Transformations in the United States: Political debates focused on the extent of the role of government in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare and national security.
- Achievements and Crises: Advances in technology, communication and transportation improved lives, but also had negative consequences.
- Globalization: Environmental concerns, impacted by population growth and heightened by international competition for the world’s energy supplies, have resulted in a new environmental consciousness and a movement for the sustainability of the world’s resources.
- Fundamentals of Economics: People cannot have all the goods and services they want and, as a result, must choose some things and give up others
- Sustainability: Decisions about human activities made by individuals and societies have implications for both current and future.
- Sustainability: Sustainability issues are interpreted and treated differently by people viewing them from various political, economic and cultural perspectives.
- Technology: The development and use of technology influences economic, political, ethical and social issues.
- Technology: Technologies inevitably involve trade-offs between costs and benefits. Decisions about the use of products and systems can result in intended and unintended consequences.
- Environment and Society: Human modifications of the physical environment in one place often lead to changes in other places (e.g., construction of a dam provides downstream flood control, construction of a city by-pass reduces commercial activity in the city center, implementation of dry farming techniques in a region leads to new transportation links and hubs).
- Environment and Society: Human societies use a variety of strategies to adapt to the opportunities and constraints presented by the physical environment (e.g., farming in flood plains and terraced farming, building hydroelectric plants by waterfalls and constructing hydroelectric dams, using solar panels as heat source and using extra insulation to retain heat).
- Environment and Society: Physical processes influence the formation and distribution of renewable, nonrenewable, and flow resources (e.g., tectonic activity plays a role in the formation and location of fossil fuels, erosion plays a role in the formation of sedimentary rocks, rainfall patterns affect regional drainage patterns).
Vocabulary:
sustainability, agriculture, three pillars of sustainability, soil properties, conservation, ecology, eco monitoring, research, animal welfare
August-June
Students will experience green career opportunities that involve data, research and wildlife management. During this program, students will have the opportunity to survey the local habitat to look for native and invasive species. Take time to learn more about the beneficial qualities of our Ohio native flora and fauna. End the day with an invasive species removal service project.
Ohio Science Standards:
- B.DI.1: Biodiversity - Species diversity
- B.DI.2: Ecosystems - Equilibrium and disequilibrium
- B.DI.3: Loss of Diversity - Invasive species
- ENV.ES.1: Biosphere - Ecosystems (equilibrium, species interactions, stability), population dynamics
- ENV.ER.5: Wildlife and wilderness, wildlife and wilderness management, invasive species, introduced species
- ENV.GP.5: Species depletion and extinction
- ENV.GP.8: Deforestation and loss of biodiversity
NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS2-6: Evaluate claims, evidence, and reasoning that the complex interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent numbers and types of organisms in stable conditions, but changing conditions may result in a new ecosystem
- HS-LS2-7: Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity
- HS-LS4-4: Construct an explanation based on evidence for how natural selection leads to adaptation of populations.
- HS-LS4-6:Create or revise a simulation to test a solution to mitigate adverse impacts of human activity on biodiversity.
Vocabulary:
Native species, invasive species, non-native species, biodiversity
August-June
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. Students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK High School: Various science disciplines use diverse methods to obtain evidence and do not always use the same set of procedures to obtain and analyze data.
- SHE High School: Science depends on curiosity, imagination, creativity and persistence.
- SHE High School: Science and engineering are influenced by technological advances and society; technological advances and society are influenced by science and engineering.
NGSS Standards:
- HS-LS4-4. Construct an explanation based on evidence for how natural selection leads to adaptation of populations.
- HS-LS4-5. Evaluate the evidence supporting claims that changes in environmental conditions may result in (1) increases in the number of individuals of some species, (2) the emergence of new species over time, and (3) the extinction of other species.
Vocabulary:
observation, investigation, comparative question, data, analysis
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a mushroom poster from a Greenacres educator
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a bird poster from a Greenacres educator
These themed programs are designed to align with the state standards across multiple grade bands. These are ideal programs for groups containing students in several grade levels.
- All
- English Language Arts
- Fine Arts
- Math
- Science
- Social and Emotional Learning
- Social Studies
August-June
The arts at Greenacres often use a creative lens to understand science, nature, and its processes. In this program, we will explore the Maple Syrup process through the perspective of art making and storytelling. Expect music, acting, and creativity! This program is best suited for students ages 5-9. This program is an ideal companion to our Maple Syrup Program. All multigrade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
character, setting, script, blocking, backdrop, stage presence
August-June
We use paper in countless ways each day - from writing a note to drying our hands. The amount of paper we use leads to large quantities of paper waste sent to landfill or recycled and never seen again. In nature, materials are recycled through a variety of processes with the help of fungus, bacteria, and invertebrates. In this program, we explore sustainability by repurposing scraps into new paper that can be used in artistic practice and uncover the similarities and differences between natural and human recycling. This hands-on experience encourages students to learn new skills and make sustainable choices. This program is best suited for students ages 9 and up. All multigrade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
recycling, sustainability, purpose, mould & deckle, texture, decomposer, cycle
August-Oct; March 15th-June
Nature provides endless inspiration for expression. Be prepared to get your hands dirty as we experiment with natural materials and our creativity! Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. This program only operates in warmer months (August-October 31; March 15-June). All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
nature, resources, imagination, inspiration
August-June
Learn how to document nature from an artist's perspective. From the colors and textures in our gardens, to the vibrancy of the artwork in the Arts Center, and to the sounds and smells on our trails, this program will tap into your students’ senses as they slow down and observe their environment. Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
documentation, observation, environment, senses
August-October 31; March 15-June
Ephemeral Art is a type of art that is temporary and subject to the changes time brings. At Greenacres Arts Center, we will explore how Ephemeral Art can be made in nature, leaving no lasting environmental impact. Immerse yourself in the natural world and discover how to use your surroundings to create art in ways you may not have considered before. Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. This program only operates in warmer months (August-October 31; March 15-May). All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
ephemeral, natural resources, leave no trace, decompose, interpretation
August-June
Every season brings a different experience at Greenacres – inside and outside! Use observable seasonal changes in fall, winter, and spring to express yourself and your experiences through the Arts. This program’s content changes in fall, winter, and spring, so you can visit one, two, or three times! Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. All multigrade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
seasons, observations, changes, inspiration, traditions
August-October 31; March 15-June
From the creek to the art studio, this program explores all things clay! Students will learn the procedures of hiking to the creek to harvest clay from natural creek beds and processing it in an art studio. This is a hands-on program that includes an uphill hike (weather permitting), so come prepared to get your hands dirty and your body moving! Programs in the Arts in the Natural World series seek to demonstrate intersections between the arts and the world around us. This program only operates in warmer months (August-October 31; March 15-June). All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
clay, natural resource, hand building, wheel throwing, stages of clay
August-June
Putting on a show is a collaborative masterpiece that encourages an array of creative skills. For example, technical artists design sets, props, and lighting, while performing artists bring the story to life with their voice, body, and imagination. Join us at the Greenacres Arts Center to explore the artful thought that goes into every aspect of a performance! All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
design, scenes, props, stage presence
August-June
Visit Greenacres Arts Center for an experience all about an exclusive rotating art exhibition by local artists who gathered inspiration from their time at the Greenacres Artist Weekend. Students will practice visual analysis, art criticism, and strategies for interpreting artworks. Schedule permitting, this program could include time with artists from the exhibition.
This program is ideal for students ages 9 and up. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
gallery, curation, description, visual analysis, interpretation, opinion
August-June
Greenacres Arts Center shares Cincinnati’s rich and exciting history each season with a different local story. Join us for the day and walk away with pride for Cincinnati’s history, arts, and culture! This program’s content changes in fall, winter, and spring, so you can visit one, two, or three times. This program is ideal for students ages 9 and up. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
- Fall: The history of The Camargo Hunt and Julius Fleischmann Jr., who built and lived in what is now Greenacres Arts Center.
- Winter: Rookwood Pottery and Greenacres Arts Center’s connection to it.
- Spring: Louis and Louise Dieterle Nippert, who founded Greenacres and left positive impacts all over the Queen City.
Vocabulary:
history, context, impact, environment, community, values
August-June
Utilize an exclusive rotating exhibition at Greenacres Arts Center to create one-of-a-kind pieces through experimentation with the 5-step creative process: preparation, incubation, illumination, evaluation, and verification (similar to the scientific method). This program will feature artworks made by local artists who were inspired by Greenacres. This program is ideal for students ages 9 and up. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
process, experimentation, inspiration, exhibition
August-June
Using tools and practices centered around creativity, experience the calming effects of visual art, music, and mindful movement. This program supports the “love and belonging” and “esteem” stages of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and focuses on Whole Student Education. We will empower students by sharing self-regulation strategies that can support their academic and social-emotional success. All multigrade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
mindfulness, reflection, regulate, breathe
August-June
We use paper in countless ways each day - from writing a note to drying our hands. The amount of paper we use leads to large quantities of paper waste sent to landfills or recycled and never seen again. In this program, we explore sustainability by repurposing scraps into new paper that can be used in artistic practice. This hands-on experience encourages students to learn new skills and make sustainable choices. This program is ideal for students ages 9 and up. All multigrade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
recycling, sustainability, purpose, mould & deckle, texture
August-June
We dance through life everyday. Discover some of the science behind how our bodies move, and explore how dance and community are integral building blocks in history and culture. This program’s kinesthetic nature will build confidence, collaborative skills, and expression through the lens of dance history, theory, and kinesiology. This program is ideal for students ages 9 and up. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
dance styles, improvise, choreography, community dance, site-specific
August-June
Embark on an adventure at Greenacres Arts Center to explore different fairy tales, folklore, and legends. This program explores the concepts of telling and retelling a story through the arts, dramatic play, and use of imagination. This program’s content changes in fall, winter, and spring, so you can visit one, two, or three times! This program is ideal for students ages 5-9. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
story, character, setting, imagination, quest, obstacle, teamwork
August-June
Patterns are a part of our everyday lives and help us make sense of the world! Join us at Greenacres Arts Center to search for and create our own patterns through the visual and performing arts. Parts of this program change with the season, so there is always something new to explore! This program is ideal for students ages 5-9. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
seasons, shape, pattern, repetition, rhythm, phrases
August-June
Life is full of opposites, like happy or sad, warm or cold, and big or small. Join us for an adventure as we explore opposites through music! Go fast and slow as we follow tempo, get loud and quiet as we explore dynamics, feel long and short sounds as we make rhythms, and hear highs and lows as we experience pitch. This program is ideal for students ages 5-9. All multi-grade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
opposites, tempo, dynamics, rhythm, steady beat
August-June
Explore the color wheel’s primary and secondary colors with the Greenacres Arts Educators! We will discover how colors can inspire us, and how colors can connect to and reflect our emotions. This program is ideal for students ages 5-9. All multigrade program offerings will be supported by grade-level appropriate standards, available to share upon request.
Vocabulary:
color, primary, secondary, emotions
August-June
Join us as we investigate the meaning of Sustainable Agriculture! Learn how we can establish productive farmland for future generations by utilizing our natural world to guide our farming methods.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- ENV.ER.1: Energy resources
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- MS-LS2-5. Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services
- MS-ESS2-1. Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
- MS-LS2-2. Construct an explanation that predicts patterns of interactions among organisms across multiple ecosystems.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Human Systems: Human systems represent the settlement and structures created by people on Earth’s surface. The growth, distribution and movements of people are driving forces behind human and physical events. Geographers study patterns in cultures and the changes that result from human processes, migrations and the diffusion of new cultural traits.
- Government - Civic Participation and Skills: Civic participation embraces the ideal that an individual actively engages in his or her community, state or nation for the common good. Students need to practice effective communication skills including negotiation, compromise and collaboration. Skills in accessing and analyzing information are essential for citizens in a democracy.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
Farming, sustainable agriculture, methods, structure, function, soil, energy resources, biodiversity, ecosystem, cycle, organism
August-June
Visit our pastures, growing spaces, and Farm Market to learn about goods and services on the farm. Students will take on various roles to create their own market from product development, to marketing, to cashier, and more! Students will have the opportunity to buy and sell from each other's markets.
Ohio Standards:
- 2.MD.8 Solve problems with money
- SL.2.1 Participate in collaborative conversations about grade 2 topics and texts with diverse partners in small and larger groups.
- Financial Literacy:
- 1. Choices can be made with your money. Choices include spending, saving and donating. Money can also be saved in financial institutions.
- 2. Competencies (knowledge and skills), commitment (motivation and enthusiasm), competition (globalization and automation), training, work ethic, abilities and attitude are all factors impacting one’s earning potential and employability.
- 3. People may receive money as gifts, allowance or income. People earn income by working.
NGSS Standards:
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Economics - Scarcity - Resources can be used in various ways.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- Economics - Markets: People use money to buy and sell goods and services.
- Economics - Financial Literacy: People earn income by working.
Vocabulary:
farm store, produce, harvest, root, fruit, leaf, meat, in season, dairy, checkout, ingredients, goods, services, apiary, beekeeper, beeswax, royal jelly, pollen, pasture, rumen, ruminant, digestion, products
August - June
You are what you eat! Our farmers care for our animals so that we can produce the highest quality of food. Young learners who visit the farm will deepen their knowledge of where their food comes from while middle and high school students will uncover the science required to produce the food in our farm market. Come explore how our farming practices can turn green pastures into great products, like meat and eggs!
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.1 Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4 Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
- 7.LS.1 Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- 8.LS.3 The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
- ENV.ER.4: Soil and land
- ENV.GP.4: Sustainability
- ENV.GP.7: Food production and availability
Indiana and NGSS:
- K-ESS3-1 Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1 Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS4-3 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-LS1-1 Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-ESS3-1. Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
- MS-LS1-6 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.
- MS-LS4-5 Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.
- HS-ESS3-1 Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the availability of natural resources, occurrence of natural hazards, and changes in climate have influenced human activity
- HS-LS2-1 Use mathematical and/or computational representations to support explanations of factors that affect carrying capacity of ecosystems at different scales.
- HS-LS2-7. Design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impacts of human activities on the environment and biodiversity.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- K: Economics - Production and Consumption: Goods are objects that can satisfy an individual’s wants. Services are actions that can satisfy an individual's wants.
- 1: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: People produce and consume goods and services in the community.
- 2: Economics - Production and Consumption Goods: Most people around the world work in jobs in which they produce specific goods and services.
- 3: Geography - Places and Region: Daily life is influenced by the agriculture, industry and natural resources in different communities.
- 4: Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Tables and charts organize data in a variety of formats to help individuals understand information and issues.
- 5: Economics - Scarcity: The availability of productive resources (i.e., entrepreneurship, human resources, capital goods and natural resources) promotes specialization that could lead to trade
- 6: Economics - Scarcity: The fundamental questions of economics include what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce.
- High School: Economics and Financial Literacy: Economists analyze multiple sources of data to predict trends, make inferences and arrive at conclusions
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: Markets exist when consumers and producers interact. When supply or demand changes, market prices adjust. Those adjustments send signals and provide incentives to consumers and producers to change their own decisions.
- High School: Fundamentals of Economics: 6. Competition among sellers lowers costs and prices, and encourages producers to produce more of what consumers are willing and able to buy. Competition among buyers increases prices and allocates goods and services to those people who are willing and able to pay the most for them.
Vocabulary:
Pasture, Product, Livestock, Farm Market, Mobile Chicken Coop, Herd, Flock, Egg (Yolk, White, Shell), Dissection, Ruminant, Bee Hive, Quality, Quantity, Management, Cost, Study
August 2025-June 2026
Students will work together as a team to sharpen their observation skills and solve escape room style puzzles all while engaging in hands-on nature exploration. In this outdoor simulation, we need the help of your students to protect the biodiversity of our land and save Greenacres from the dreaded Deforester! (at Spooky Hollow Farm site only)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 6-8: Apply knowledge of science content to real-world challenges.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- MS-ESS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment
- MS-PS1-2. Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
Vocabulary: Biodiversity, awareness, observation, neutralize
All life depends on soil. Come learn how this important building block impacts life around Greenacres, and how we create healthier soil through farming practices. We will also experience how soil scientists study the properties of soil.
Ohio Science Standards:
- 4.ESS.3: The surface of Earth changes due to erosion and deposition.
- 4.PS.1: When objects break into smaller pieces, dissolve, or change state, the total amount of matter is conserved.
- 6.ESS.5 Rocks, mineral and soils have common and practical uses.
- 6.ESS.4 Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 2-ESS2-1. Compare multiple solutions designed to slow or prevent wind or water from changing the shape of the land.
- 4-ESS2-1. Make observations and/or measurements to provide evidence of the effects of weathering or the rate of erosion by water, ice, wind, or vegetation.
- 4-ESS2-2. Analyze and interpret data from maps to describe patterns of Earth’s features
- MS-LS2-5. Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services
- MS-ESS2-1. Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth’s materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
- HS-ESS2-2. Analyze geoscience data to make the claim that one change to Earth's surface can create feedbacks that cause changes to other Earth systems.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
Vocabulary:
soil health, properties, erosion, deposition, matter, minerals, nutrient, weathering
December - February
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. While spending time in the greenhouse and other growing spaces, even in winter, students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about farming through the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 4-PS3-2.Make observations to provide evidence that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-PS3-1:Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
- MS-PS3-3. Apply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Government - Civic Participation and Skills: Civic participation embraces the ideal that an individual actively engages in his or her community, state or nation for the common good. Students need to practice effective communication skills including negotiation, compromise and collaboration. Skills in accessing and analyzing information are essential for citizens in a democracy.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
Vocabulary: Observation, Investigation, Comparative Question, Data, Analysis
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Greenacres Farm. We will focus on building age specific skills and apply them to learning about farming practices and the places where we farm. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more familiar with farming.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.LS.1: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- 7.LS.2 In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors. Elements can be organized by properties
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1.Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 1-LS1-1. Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
- Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS1-4 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- MS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- History - Heritage: Ideas and events from the past have shaped the world as it is today. The actions of individuals and groups have made a difference in the lives of others.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
- Economics- Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farming, livestock, observation, senses, tools, living, nonliving, adaptations, soil, water, air, energy, produce, habitats, and ecosystems
August-June
Every season is a different experience when you are on the farm! Come explore what the current season has to offer for life here.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.ESS.1: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
- 1.LS.2: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- 2.ESS.3: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
- 3.LS.3: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-PS3-1. Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth’s surface
- 2-ESS1-1. Use information from several sources to provide evidence that Earth events can occur quickly or slowly.
- 3-ESS2-1. Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season.
- MS-ESS2-6. Develop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine regional climates.
- HS-ESS2-2. Analyze geoscience data to make the claim that one change to Earth's surface can create feedbacks that cause changes to other Earth systems.
Ohio Social Studies Standards (K-8):
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs
- Economics - Scarcity: There are not enough resources to produce all the goods and services that people desire
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
farm, weather, season, fall, winter, summer, spring, temperature
(Jan 21 to Feb 25, 2026)
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Plan to make observations, ask questions, collect data using scientific tools, and analyze the data you collect. Explore our authentic sugar bush and sugar shack as science comes to life through this hands-on, guided inquiry program. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
- LS Grade 4: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial and sometimes harmful.
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem. All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- LS Grade 7: Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
- MS-LS2-3: Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 4: Geography- The economic development of the United States continues to influence and be influenced by agriculture, industry and natural resources in Ohio.
- SS Grade 5: History- Early Indian civilizations (Maya, Inca, Aztec, Mississippian) existed in the Western Hemisphere prior to the arrival of Europeans. These civilizations had developed unique governments, social structures, religions, technologies, and agricultural practices.
- SS Grade 6: Economics- When selecting items to buy, individuals can weigh costs and benefits and compare the price and quality of available goods and services.
Vocabulary: sugar bush, sugar shack, sap, diameter, density, xylem, phloem, glucose, hypothesis, observation, investigation, comparative question, data, analysis
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
All stages of life can be found around the farm. Join us as we learn more about these living things, what stage they are in, and how they can contribute to the well-being of the farm.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.LS.1: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- 1.LS.2: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- 2.LS.2: All organisms alive today result from their ancestors, some of which may be extinct. Not all kinds of organisms that lived in the past are represented by living organisms today.
- 3.LS.1: Offspring resemble their parents and each other.
- 4.LS.1 Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.2: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- 6.LS.4: Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- K-ESS3-1. Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants or animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 1-LS1-2. Read texts and use media to determine patterns in behavior of parents and offspring that help offspring survive.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS1-1. Develop models to describe that organisms have unique and diverse life cycles but all have in common birth, growth, reproduction, and death.
- 4-LS1-1. Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
- MS-LS1-4. Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
- Economics - Economic Decision Making and Skills: Effective economic decision making requires students to be able to reason logically about key economic issues that affect their lives as consumers, producers, savers, investors and citizens. Economic decision-making and skills engage students in the practice of analyzing costs and benefits, collecting and organizing economic evidence and proposing alternatives to economic problems.
Vocabulary:
Life cycle, stages, living, offspring, parent, organism
December - February
The sun, and its energy, is essential to many of the living things on a farm and may even influence more than first meets the eye! While spending time in our Greenhouse and other winter growing areas, we will see first hand the sun at work to overcome any obstacle, like winter.
Ohio Science Standards:
- K.ESS.2: The moon, sun and stars can be observed at different times of the day or night.
- 1.ESS.1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- 2.ESS.3: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
- 3.PS.3: Heat, electrical energy, light, sound and magnetic energy are forms of energy.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.ESS.3 Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and sun are predictable.
- 6.ESS.4 Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
- 7.ESS.5 The relative positions of Earth and the sun cause patterns we call seasons.
Indiana and NGSS Standards:
- 1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
- 1-ESS1-1. Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.
- 2-LS2-1. Plan and conduct an investigation to determine if plants need sunlight and water to grow.
- 3-ESS2-1. Represent data in tables and graphical displays to describe typical weather conditions expected during a particular season.
- 4-ESS3-1 Earth and Human Activity. Obtain and combine information to describe that energy and fuels are derived from natural resources and their uses affect the environment.
- 5-PS3-1 Energy. Use models to describe that energy in animals’ food (used for body repair, growth, motion, and to maintain body warmth) was once energy from the sun.
- 5-LS1-1 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Support an argument that plants get the materials they need for growth chiefly from air and water.
- MS-ESS2-1 Earth's Systems. Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth's materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
- MS-LS1-5 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.
- MS-ESS2-6. Develop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine regional climates.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- Geography - Spatial Thinking and Skills: Spatial thinking examines the relationships among people, places and environments by mapping and graphing geographic data. Geographic data are compiled, organized, stored and made visible using traditional and geospatial technologies. Students need to be able to access, read, interpret and create maps and other geographic representations as tools of analysis.
- Geography - Places and Regions: A place is a location having distinctive characteristics, which give it meaning and character and distinguish it from other locations. A region is an area with one or more common characteristics, which give it a measure of homogeneity and make it different from surrounding areas. Regions and places are human constructs.
- Economics - Production and Consumption: Production is the act of combining natural resources, human resources, capital goods and entrepreneurship to make goods and services. Consumption is the use of goods and services.
Vocabulary:
Sun, energy, greenhouse, daylight, observation
August - June
In and around Greenacres, animals are busy even when we are not watching. Tracks, scat, and chewed nuts and twigs are examples of signs of animals that allow us to know that an animal has been to a given spot. Students will use evidence of animals we find to piece together the story of all their secret activities.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind differ in their traits and sometimes the differences give individuals an advantage in surviving and reproducing.
- LS Grade 5: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
- LS Grade 7: Matter is transferred continuously between one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science assumes that objects and events occur in consistent patterns that are understandable through measurement and observation.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS2-1. Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
- 3-LS3-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence that plants and animals have traits inherited from parents and that variation of these traits exists in a group of similar organisms.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment.
- MS-LS2-2: Construct an explanation that predicts patterns of interactions among organisms across multiple ecosystems.
Vocabulary:
sign, scat, track, evidence, adaptation, survival, habitat
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a tracking video with a Greenacres educator
April - October * Fair weather only *
Choose a survival focus area and come for one program or plan to attend the entire series. Join us as we build confidence in primitive living skills.
Shelter: We will take a cue from the animals who call Greenacres home as we build our shelters.
Fire: Learn what it takes to build a fire and then gather around it to share stories.
Food: From the fish in our Greenacres’ waters to the forests, learn what the land could provide for you in a survival situation (this will not involve tasting).
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- SWK Grade K-2: Exploration leads to observation. Observation leads to questions.
- SWK Grade K-2: Natural events happen today as they happened in the past.
- SWK Grade K-2: Events happen in regular patterns and cycles in the natural world.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science assumes that objects and events occur in consistent patterns that are understandable through measurement and observation.
- SIPA Grade 6-8: Apply knowledge of science content to real-world challenges.
NGSS Standards:
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 3-5-ETS1-2. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
- MS-ETS1-3. Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.
Vocabulary:
awareness, exploration, observation, primitive
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a shelter video with a Greenacres educator
August - June
By combining nature exploration with journaling, students will gain a deeper understanding of the observations we make while experiencing nature at Greenacres. Journaling allows us to slow down, take in more of our surroundings, and notice more. This program works well as a series or as an individual field trip.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- SWK Grade K-2: Exploration leads to observation. Observation leads to questions.
- SWK Grade K-2: Natural events happen today as they happened in the past.
- SWK Grade K-2: Events happen in regular patterns and cycles in the natural world.
- K.PS.1: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science assumes that objects and events occur in consistent patterns that are understandable through measurement and observation.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- K-2-ETS1-2. Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
Vocabulary:
observation, inference
Introduction: CLICK HERE for a poster from a Greenacres educator
August - June
This program engages students in a hands-on exploration of Ohio’s natural areas. We’ll focus on building observation skills and applying them to learning about our environment. This is an ideal program for a first time visit to Greenacres or for students to become more comfortable in nature.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SWK Grade K-2: The world is discovered through exploration.
- SWK Grade K-2: Exploration leads to observation. Observation leads to questions.
- SWK Grade K-2: Natural events happen today as they happened in the past.
- SWK Grade K-2: Events happen in regular patterns and cycles in the natural world.
- K.PS.1: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
- K.PS.2: Some objects and materials can be made to vibrate and produce sound.
- 3.LS.2: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and/or reproducing.
- 4.LS.1: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
- 5.LS.1 Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science assumes that objects and events occur in consistent patterns that are understandable through measurement and observation.
- SIPA Grade 6-8: Apply knowledge of science content to real-world challenges.
NGSS Standards:
- K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 5-LS2-1. Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
Ohio Social Studies Standards:
- SS Grade 5: Geography- Political, environmental, social and economic factors cause people, products and ideas to move from place to place in the Western Hemisphere and results in diversity.
Vocabulary:
observation, senses, living, nonliving, adaptations
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for exploration video with a Greenacres educator
April-October
Choose an aquatic focus area: Life at the Pond or Life at the Stream. Ponds and streams are essential resources to many Ohio plants and animals, including humans. Take time to discover our local waterways at Greenacres and make observations as we look for plants and animals that call them home.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- LS Grade 3: Offspring resemble their parents and each other.
- LS Grade 4: Changes in an organism's environment are sometimes beneficial to survival and sometimes harmful.
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- LS Grade 5: All of the processes that take place within an organism require energy.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- K-ESS3-3. Communicate solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and/or other living things in the local environment.
- 1-LS3-1. Make observations to construct an evidence-based account that young plants and animals are like, but not exactly like, their parents.
- LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 2-ESS2-3. Obtain information to identify where water is found on Earth and that it can be solid or liquid.
- 3-LS1-1: Develop models to describe that organisms have unique and diverse life cycles but all have in common birth, growth, reproduction, and death.
- 5-LS2-1: Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
- MS-LS2-3: Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
Vocabulary: Observation, Fossil, Limestone, Shale, Erosion, Deposition, Clay, Invertebrate, Habitat, Adaptations, Life Cycles
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a pond video with a Greenacres educator
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for stream video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Birds are perhaps the easiest wildlife to observe. Birds have many unique adaptations, which allows them to be found in many different habitats. We'll use our observation skills to find birds of all shapes, sizes, and colors as we hike around Greenacres.
Ohio Science Standards:
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on Earth.
- LS Grade 3: Offspring resemble their parents and each other.
- LS Grade 4: Changes in an organism's environment are sometimes beneficial to survival and sometimes harmful.
- LS Grade 5: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
- LS Grade 5: All of the processes that take place within an organism require energy.
- LS Grade 7: In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors.
- LS Grade 8: The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- 1-LS3-1: Make observations to construct an evidence-based account that young plants and animals are like, but not exactly like, their parents
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence that plants and animals have traits inherited from parents and that variation of these traits exists in a group of similar organisms
- 3-LS2-1. Construct an argument that some animals form groups that help members survive.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
- 4-LS1-1. Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
- MS-LS2-4. Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.
- MS-LS4-4. Construct an explanation based on evidence that describes how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment.
- HS-LS2-8: Evaluate evidence for the role of group behavior on individual and species’ chances to survive and reproduce.
Vocabulary: Observation, Habitat, Evidence, Adaptation, Trait, Behavior
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a bird video with a Greenacres educator
August-June
Scientific inquiry is a way of doing science that includes making observations, forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. Students will design and conduct a simple investigation to learn about the inquiry process.
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade 3-5: Observe and ask questions about the world that can be answered through scientific investigations.
- SWK Grade 3-5: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a way of knowing about the world around us based on evidence from experimentation and observations.
- SWK Grade 6-8: Science is a continual process and the body of scientific knowledge continues to grow and change.
NGSS Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.
- 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment.
- MS - LS2-1. Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations of organisms in an ecosystem.
Vocabulary: Observation, Investigation, Comparative Question, Data, Analysis
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for a Inquiry video with a Greenacres educator
Jan 21-Feb 25, 2026
Maple sugaring is the tradition of making maple syrup from the sap gathered from maple trees in late winter. Many animals and people benefit by using the sap of maple trees. Plan to visit our sugar bush and our working evaporator at Greenacres as you use your senses to discover how maple sap is turned into syrup. (Jan 21-Feb 26, 2026)
Ohio Science Standards:
- SIPA Grade K-2: Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses.
- LS Grade K: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
- LS Grade K: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
- ESS Grade 1: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
- ESS Grade 1: The sun is the principal source of energy.
- ESS Grade 1: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
- LS Grade 1: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
- LS Grade 1: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
- ESS Grade 2: Long and short term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
- LS Grade 2: Living things cause changes on earth.
- LS Grade 3: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and or reproducing.
NGSS Standards:
- K-LS1-1. Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- 1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
- 2-LS4-1. Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 3-LS3-2. Use evidence to support the explanation that traits can be influenced by the environment
Vocabulary:
spiles, sap, gallons, sugar shack, sugar bush, evaporation, tap, sapsucker
Video Introduction: CLICK HERE for Maple video with a Greenacres educator
Customize a Field Trip
The Greenacres Education Team is committed to creating exceptional field trip experiences for each and every visitor we serve. In collaboration with classroom teachers we build customized, hands-on interactive experiences aligned with grade-level academic learning standards. If you would like to customize one of our existing programs or would like to discuss a program that you have in mind, please use the contact form below.
Contact Us
Education Coordinator
Katie Brown