Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Millbridge Public Library.
A great program for children from pre-school through 2nd grade. Discover the differences and similarities between birds and mammals as we encourage active learning by dressing two students in our bear and bird costumes. Hosted by 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft, ME.
Explore attitudes toward predators and reasons for their decline throughout history because of habitat loss and human interference. Discussion of current events emphasizes the importance of predators in maintaining the world’s ecological balance. Participants have the opportunity to study mounted animals and see three live, non-releasable predators. Hosted by the Spaulding Memorial Library.
Vertebrates — including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals—are some of the most advanced creatures on the planet. We all have one main thing in common: an internal skeleton. Students will gain a better understanding of the skeletal system by looking closely at the bones of many different vertebrates while comparing them to their own skeletons. The assembly of our 16-foot Pilot Whale skeleton will give participants the opportunity to investigate the physiological adaptations these animals require to survive in the depths of the ocean. Please note there are no live animals for this presentation.
Hosted by 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
Is a bug an insect? Is a spider a bug? Drop in and visit our display to find out the answer to these questions and many more. We look at the forms and functions of different groups of arthropods and explore many fascinating adaptations essential for survival such as mimicry, camouflage, armor and venom. We will have live specimens, displays, models and activities to visually examine and understand the unique characteristics of these amazing creatures. Hosted by Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, ME.
The tide pool is home to a variety of species whose unique adaptations allow them to maintain stability in a world that is in a constant state of change. Hosted by Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, ME.
The tide pool is home to a variety of species whose unique adaptations allow them to maintain stability in a world that is in a constant state of change. Hosted by Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, ME.
Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Topsham Public Library.
Explore attitudes toward predators and reasons for their decline throughout history because of habitat loss and human interference. Discussion of current events emphasizes the importance of predators in maintaining the world’s ecological balance. Participants have the opportunity to study mounted animals and see three live, non-releasable predators. Hosted by the New Vineyard Public Library.
Nature has already invented everything we need. If there is a problem we cannot solve, we can find the answer in nature, we just need to look closely and pay attention. Hosted by Readfield Public Library.
This exciting and interactive program introduces students to our native warm-blooded vertebrates: Maine mammals.
Participant examine mounted animal specimens and observe their characteristics, such as teeth, feet, and fur. We use these observations as clues to understanding each mammal’s adaptations, niche, and habitat.
A collection of skulls, study skins, and other specimens complements a discussion of adaptations and the role each animal plays in the food web.
Hosted by 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
Nature has already invented everything we need. If there is a problem we cannot solve, we can find the answer in nature, we just need to look closely and pay attention. Hosted by New Gloucester Public Library.
Vertebrates — including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals—are some of the most advanced creatures on the planet. We all have one main thing in common: an internal skeleton. Students will gain a better understanding of the skeletal system by looking closely at the bones of many different vertebrates while comparing them to their own skeletons. The assembly of our 16-foot Pilot Whale skeleton will give participants the opportunity to investigate the physiological adaptations these animals require to survive in the depths of the ocean. Please note there are no live animals for this presentation.
Hosted by Shaw Public Library in Greenville, ME.
Is a bug an insect? Is a spider a bug? These questions and many more are answered in The BugMobile, bringing the world of arthropods – insects and their relatives, into your classroom. We look at the forms and functions of different groups of arthropods and explore many fascinating adaptations essential for survival such as mimicry, camouflage, armor and venom. The program includes live specimens, displays, models and activities to visually examine and understand the unique characteristics of these amazing creatures. Hosted by the Lewsiton Public Library.
This exciting and interactive program introduces students to our native warm-blooded vertebrates: Maine mammals.
Participant examine mounted animal specimens and observe their characteristics, such as teeth, feet, and fur. We use these observations as clues to understanding each mammal’s adaptations, niche, and habitat.
A collection of skulls, study skins, and other specimens complements a discussion of adaptations and the role each animal plays in the food web.
Hosted by Cary Memorial Library in Wayne, ME.
Join us on the coast of Maine for two-day professional development symposium designed for teachers and administrators who would like to learn more about place-based education, and how this curriculum design can help improve student engagement, outcomes, and transform student culture.
Monday, August 19 – Tuesday August 20
This symposium will be held at our main campus in Wiscasset, Maine. Chewonki is located on a pristine 400-acre saltwater peninsula with rocky shores, salt marshes, boreal forests, a working farm, miles of hiking trails and much more. Over the course of this event we will explore much of the campus as we examine the role of place and natural systems in our curriculum design.
Chewonki Foundation
485 Chewonki Neck Road
Wiscasset, Maine 04578
Chewonki Neck in Wiscasset. View on Google Earth.
Monday, August 19
10:00am – 12pm – Arrivals & Check-in
12:00pm – Lunch in the Wallace dining room
1:00pm – Opening community gather with Maine Coast Semester faculty & staff
1:45 – 2:45 – Place-Based Curriculum Workshops Part I
These sessions will explore how our courses incorporate Chewonki Neck and the coast of Maine as learning tools we use in our courses for high school Juniors and Seniors. You will see how our curriculum is relevant to developing student emotional growth and supports our Goals for Graduates. Participants can select from the following course options:
3:00pm – 4:00pm – Weaving Intentional Community with Nature as a Partner Part I
We will explore the ways that Maine Coast Semester creates intentional community using the principles of restorative practices. We will explore how we see the natural world as a partner in this work, and use our cabin life, advising, and solos curriculum to manifest a community built on trust, composed of community co-creators, students and adults alike. Through this time together we’ll explore the approach and tools for:
4:15pm – 6:00pm – Optional Activities
6:00pm – Dinner
Tuesday, August 20th
7:00am – Optional Polar Bear Plunge at the waterfront
7:30am – breakfast
8:45am – 9:00am Morning Meeting at the campfire circle
9:30 – 10:30 Weaving Community with Restorative Practice Part II
10:30 – 11:45 Place-Based Curriculum Workshops Part II:
12:00pm – Lunch
1:00pm – 3pm – Field Lab Excursion (Pemaquid Point or Reid St. Park depending on weather and tides)
4:00pm – 6:00pm – Free time
6:00pm – Formal program ends. Participants are welcome depart, or, to stay Tuesday night and depart the following morning. There will be the opportunity to join a group for a dinner out on Tuesday evening to a local area restaurant.
Wednesday, August 21st:
10:00am – Departure
Co-Director, Dean of Academics
Co-Director, Dean of Students
Participants are welcome to stay on site in one of our cabins at no additional charge, or you are welcome to book your own local accommodation. Wiscasset has several hotel, motel, and Airbnb options nearby. Each cabin will host a group of 4-6 participants.
Attendees will be charged a $100 participation fee. Many schools are willing to fund this type of professional development opportunity, please check with your supervisor or HR representative.
Please follow this link to register, or click the RSVP for this Event button below.
Registration Deadline: August 1, 2024!
In this fun-filled hour, students will learn about adaptations, try on fun costumes, and see firsthand how three of our live, non-releasable animals have adaptations that help them thrive in their specific habitats, including our local marine habitat. Hosted by the 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
Many people conjure up images of slimy skin and bloodthirsty monsters when they hear the word “reptile.” Drop by our display and examine snakeskins, turtle shells, skeletons, and other unique reptilian artifacts. Hosted by Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, ME.
Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Vassalboro Public Library.
Chewonki is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. ©2024 All Rights Reserved.
