Meet Me in The Middle: Chapter 13

Abstract:
Spending time outdoors. Wormeli uses camping as an example in this chapter; however anytime spent NOT in the classroom is viewed as a good thing. Students can learn a lot about independence and appreciation while on overnight trips. They can also learn a lot about from simply taking a day trip (or class period) to a local outdoor site. Being outside helps some student connect with their naturalistic-intelligences, while it helps other students incorporate art or even history (if one visited a historic site).

Reflection:

When I was in middle school I was part of an outing club. I did a lot of camping trips and day trips. I canoed the entire Alagash, I learned how to kayak rapids, I rode bikes, I even went on a winter camping trip complete with sled dogs. These were not only trips that I learned a lot about myself and what I was capable of but also trips where I was able to learn a lot about my peers. It was also during a time where I was really into technology and this was a good "power down" time. It gave me a chance to stop looking at a screen and really enjoy the world around me. I gained skills that I still have today, a lot of self-esteem, and respect for my peers (which was mutually returned).