Extension
It Starts With Us
Science & Natural Resource Awareness
Science & Natural Resource Awareness
Rebecca Konopka
Natural Resources 4-H Core Curriculum
Science, Engineering and Technology 4-H Core Curriculum
People, animals and plants are dependent on our Earth’s natural resources. Everything from the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the soil we use for food production – these resources are vital to our existence. Therefore, it’s important that we care for and respect these resources. Understanding how our daily choices affect our environment, we can conserve natural resources and protect our environment for present and future generations.
Youth and clientele need to learn scientific research techniques, responsible practices and innovative technologies that positively address science, engineering and technology issues in Kentucky and globally. Through the Land Grant University and Extension system, 4-H can expand its impact and extend its reach in science, engineering and technology (4-H SET) by providing opportunities for hands-on scientific learning and discovery in 4-H clubs.
Youth will choose a career path in science, engineering or technology subject matter.
Youth will utilize the scientific method in decision in making.
Youth will use scientific techniques, responsible practices and innovative technologies that will solve problems in their community and positively sustain the natural resources in the home, community and world.
Youth will engage in community projects related to natural resource conservation.
Youth will use and apply the skills gained from 4-H science, engineering and technology.
Youth will demonstrate and share new abilities in science, engineering and technology with others.
Youth will practice scientific methods learned from 4-H.
Teens will mentor younger 4-H’ers in science, engineering and technology.
Youth will make decisions in their daily lives that positively impact natural resources.
Youth will adopt practices to conserve and protect the environment in their home and community.
Youth will use problem solving and logical reasoning skills and apply them to environmental issues.
Youth will increase interest and engagement in natural resources, science, engineering and technology.
Youth will learn new skills in natural resources, science, engineering and technology .
Youth will be introduced to careers in SET and natural resources.
Youth will develop an interest in environmental science and sustainable practices and technologies.
Youth will identify the natural resources that are used within their home and community.
Initial Outcome: Youth will increase interest and engagement in natural resources, science, engineering and technology.
Indicator: Participation increases in 4-H SET and natural resource programming.
Method: LEGO Wizards, Win With Wood, Forestry Field Days, NRESci Academy, etc.
Timeline: Ongoing
Intermediate Outcome: Youth will use and apply the skills gained from 4-H science, engineering and technology.
Indicator: 4-H members successfully compete in the FIRST LEGO League and robotic competitions.
Method: 4-H LEGO Wizards Club
Timeline: July – December
Long-term Outcome: Youth will engage in community projects related to natural resource conservation.
Indicator: 4-H members complete community service projects.
Method: Natural Resource & Environmental Science (NRESci) Academy
Timeline: Ongoing
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Audience: Middle & High School Students
Project or Activity: 4-H NRESci Academy
Content or Curriculum: 4-H & UK Curriculum
Inputs: Staff, Industry Professionals, Specialists
Date: October – August
Audience: 4-H members
Project or Activity: Forestry Field Days, Win With Wood
Content or Curriculum: UK Forestry materials
Inputs: Staff, volunteers, specialists
Date: September – October
Audience: 4-H members
Project or Activity: 4-H LEGO Wizards Club
Content or Curriculum: FLL, 4-H Robotics Curriculum
Inputs: volunteers, grants, staff
Date: July – December
Audience: 4th & 5th grade classrooms
Project or Activity: Exploring Your Environment Science Days & Project WET History Days
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Exploring Your Environment, Electricity, Entomology, Aerospace, Project WET
Inputs: teachers, staff
Date: January – April
Audience: Elementary Classrooms
Project or Activity: Butterfly Life Cycles
Content or Curriculum: Butterfly WINGS
Inputs: teachers, staff
Date: April – May
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Author: Rebecca Konopka
Major Program: Natural Resources 4-H Core Curriculum
The 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRESci) Academy is a three-year program designed to teach middle-school age youth about their natural environment. In 2011, the Academy began as a pilot 4-H program with 18 scholars from eight eastern counties. As of 2018, the Academy has grown to a statewide 4-H program with 65 scholars and ambassadors from 20 counties. The Carter County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development Education serves on the NRESci planning committee.
