What are the effects of winter on human beings and other species who live in cold places? How can we thrive in winter’s challenges and capitalize on its unique opportunities? How do animals and plants survive the harshness of winter? In this course we will examine winter’s effects from physical and biological perspectives, and investigate how various organisms innovatively adapt for winter survival. From snow tunneling rodents to hibernating grizzly bears, and from torpid turtles to insects and plants with antifreeze, each innovation is a unique and fascinating story. We will also look at the effects of winter on human societies, and personal health and mood. As we seek to become more aware of our physical environment, we will be asking, “How can we make the most of winter?” And we will get out there and TRY STUFF. Learning activities will include outdoor adventures such as snowshoeing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, downhill luge, ice fishing, and building a snow shelter, as well as field trips and hands-on experiments in the classroom. We will foster community through several class meals together, and all activity fees plus two overnight stays north of Grand Rapids are included in the course fee. Scientific concepts will be learned through real world examples, so besides being a lot of fun, this course will count for Natural Science core!
Credits: 2
Core: Natural Science
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