Oakwood seventh grade students spent the week on Santa Catalina Island, and the unique ecosystems that surround the island make for ideal hands-on learning for our students. During this incredible field trip, the students spent time both above and below the water kayaking and snorkeling to explore the kelp forest and terrestrial ecosystem in the area. Additionally, they investigated the shore and tide pools and then observed their findings under a microscope. On land, the students spent time learning the principles of sustainability by composting and gardening during their stay. Along with their environmental-based lessons, the seventh-grade students practiced their cooperation, leadership, and personal responsibility skills through a few exhilarating team-building exercises. These included a large climbing wall and ropes courses. We thank the Catalina Environmental Leadership Program (CELP) for hosting our students and providing this educational and engaging experience.
Field Trips
Class field trips are a rich part of the Oakwood experience. Increasing in length and sophistication as the students mature, field trips provide insight into and increased enjoyment of the curriculum. Students enjoy both science and history related trips. A highlight of the middle school experience is the eighth grade trip to Washington D.C. to visit our nation’s capital and surrounding historic areas. Although the field trips are not mandatory, they are a key part of the curriculum and provide significant social value for the students. It is rare for a student not to attend, and the school makes every effort possible to make sure all can attend.
Oakwood's 8th grade class traveled to the East coast and toured many important historical sites.The trip began in Boston, the cradle of liberty, where they saw the Paul Reverse House, the Old North Church and a replica of a Boston Tea Party Ship.They continued their learning with trips to see the Concord Minuteman statue, Plymouth Rock, Harvard University, "Old Ironsides" and walked the Freedom Trail.
Oakwood sixth grade students spent a week at Yosemite National Park. It was an eventful trip, which included some rock scrambling, cave exploring, and plenty of hiking in the valley. On top of that they consumed mass quantities of jello each night at dinner, and a coyote sighting!
Oakwood seventh grade students recently spent three days on Catalina Island. The trip was hosted by the Catalina Environmental Leadership Program and offered students the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Chanel Islands and to apply the many concepts covered throughout their science curriculum. The unique ecosystems that surround the island made for ideal hands-on learning for our students.