The River as a Resource
The Fifth Grade SPREE excursion takes place at Overland Pond Park. This excursion takes students on a day-long journey as scientists and explorers. Overland Pond, originally designed as a learning habitat park, is the perfect backdrop as students test water quality, learn about the ways beavers adapt to life along the South Platte River, act out a story about pollution in the South Platte River, learn how to operate a white water raft, and work in teams to capture and observe living creatures.
Activities
Beaver Dress Up, Water Quality Testing, South Platte Pollution Attack, Recreational Boating, Critter Crawl
Colorado Academic Standards
Science 2.2 & 3.5; Physical Education 3.2 & 4.1
Location: Overland Pond Park
Overland Pond Park is located northeast of the intersection of Florida Ave and South Platte River Drive at 861 W Florida Ave, Denver, CO, 80223
Please print a map for your bus driver.
Time Schedule
The 5th grade excursion starts at 9:30 am and runs until 1:00 pm. We usually eat lunch between 11:00 am and 11:30 am.
What to Bring
Students and adults should be prepared to be outside in any type of weather.
Everyone should pack:
- a water bottle (there is no running water at the park)
- sack lunch
- sun screen
- hat
- extra pair of shoes that can get wet
- extra socks
- a small towel
- layers of clothing to be prepared for changes in the weather
Teachers should also bring a first aid kit, extra food and water, hand sanitizer, a cell phone, and one adult chaperone for every ten students.
What to Expect
During this SPREE excursion, students will be getting into the water up to their ankles. Teachers should prepare their students to get wet and plan appropriately. SPREE instructors will provide all of the instruction and all materials needed for the excursion. Students will also be broken into small groups to rotate through activities.
What SPREE Expects From You
Teachers and chaperones are expected to model appropriate behavior for students at all times including: listening politely to SPREE instructors while they are presenting information, staying to the right side of the trail when appropriate, and being excited about and engaged in all SPREE activities. Adults are also expected to help monitor student behavior throughout the day.
Love this field trip. It's a hit every year and all of the activities are exciting for them!