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Life Sciences Outreach Programs

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Bring the fun, diversity and richness of the natural world to your students through interactive, hands-on programs that have been designed to align with the six major science themes outlined in the California States Science Framework. The programs focus on systems and interactions and are available year-round.Please refer to the school program reservations and policies before booking a program or tour.

Sensational Senses (Kindergarten/1st grade)

How do humans and animals explore and get information from their environment? A live animal, mounted specimens, bird calls, sounds, and mammal skins reveal some of the answers. In this multi-sensory program students explore the functions of their senses and how these compare to the sensory abilities of animals.

• Site: In your classroom
• Length: 60 minutes
• Fee: $140 for one class, $215 for two classes, $290 for three sequentially*
• Size: Up to 34 students; add $3/additional student; maximum 40 students

Amazing Salmon (1st-6th grades)

A treasure of the American River, the Chinook Salmon is used to explore life cycles, fish anatomy, conservation, and habitat. Students "join" this fish on an exciting journey to the sea and back to the American River. Discovery tools include slides, fish specimens, and activities. This program is an excellent pre- or post-trip activity for a Nimbus Fish Hatchery field trip.

• Site: In your classroom
• Length: 60 minutes
• Fee: $140 for one class, $215 for two classes, $290 for three sequentially*
• Size: Up to 34 students; add $3/additional student; maximum 40 students

Things That Slither - Reptiles and Amphibians (K-3rd grades)

A living reptile or amphibian, visual aids, shed skins, and other touchable specimens are the tools a naturalist will use to compare and contrast the similarities and differences between these two animal groups. Students learn to identify reptile and amphibian characteristics, including their structures and functions.

• Site: In your classroom
• Length: 60 minutes
• Fee: $140 for one class, $215 for two classes, $290 for three sequentially*
• Size: Up to 34 students; add $3/additional student; maximum 40 students

Reptiles, Mammals and Birds (Kindergarten - 3rd grades)

Students learn to identify and classify furry, feathered, and scaly creatures in this interactive program. Using dramatics, grouping games, and discussion, students explore the physical differences between reptiles, mammals, and birds. Bones, skulls, and skins are used to help distinguish physical characteristics. Students will also meet a live animal and review what they have discovered.

• Site: In your classroom
• Length: 60 minutes
• Fee: $140 for one class, $215for two classes, $290 for three sequentially*
• Size: Up to 34 students; add $3/additional student; maximum 40 students

Feathers and Flight - The Birds (3rd-6th grades)

By observing and discussing live birds, slides, mounted specimens, and skeletal parts, students will discover the incredible diversity of birds and their ancestors. They'll explore the evolution of avian structural and behavioral adaptations and their relationship to habitat type, niche, and the ability to fly. Major bird groups and their distinctive characteristics and habits will be explored.

• Site: In your classroom
• Length: 60 minutes
• Fee: $140 for one, $215 for two, $290 for three sequentially*
• Size: Up to 34 students; add $3/additional student; max. 40 students

Beaks, Claws, and Jaws - Animal Adaptations (3rd-6th grades)

Who eats whom and how? Animals survive by specific food-getting mechanisms and survival strategies developed over time. A live animal, mounted specimens, study skins, and skeletal parts are used to explore animal behavior and specific body structures as they relate to particular functions and survival strategies.

• Site: In your classroom
• Length: 75 minutes
• Fee: $150 for one, $230 for two, $310 for three sequentially*
• Size: Up to 34 students; add $3/additional student; max. 40 students

*Sequentially means 2-3 classes at the same location on the same day