Deer Valley Camp Activities Overview
Students are beginning the Deer Valley project in April of their 5th grade school year with an interdisciplinary unit centering on the theme of survival. Students will participate in a study of the novel Hatchet, incorporating all subject areas, as well as discussions related to surviving in life including the transition from Grandview to the Middle School. When students enter middle school, they will continue using an interdisciplinary approach focused on the theme of respect. Both the survival and respect themes will allow a smooth academic transition to a new school, as well as instill the values we want middle school students to have.
Part of the culminating experience and celebration of our hard work will be a field trip, where students will see what we have done in the classroom come to life. While at Deer Valley, students will be engaged in a variety of activities. We will enjoy meals in the dining hall and wrap up each day with a campfire. Our experiences are led by Deer Valley, middle school and Grandview staff. A brief description of some of our possible programs is as follows:
Hike to Mt. Davis
- Students will be placed within a typical Pennsylvania highlands forest biome. The hike teaches the students key information about Pennsylvania, including the fact that Mt. Davis is the state’s highest peak at 3, 213 feet above sea level! We will also have the chance to see the breathtaking view from atop the lookout tower at the top of the mountain.
Adventure Trail
- The groups will venture through a series of challenges, which can only be accomplished when the group works as one. Team work, communication, planning, and problem solving will all be necessary for the group to succeed. What a great way for students to incorporate respect for one another!
Boating
- Students will learn safe boating procedures, so they will be able to steer a canoe and/or rowboat around the lake at Deer Valley.
Pollution Solution…pH Testing of Water Quality
- Students will explore the quality of water in the lake at Deer Valley. Students will gather samples in order to identify the acidity levels of the lake water using pH testing strips. Causes and effects of pollution will also be explored.
Archery
- Learn the correct form, technique, terminology, and safety precautions to successfully participate in the sport of archery.
- Trial by Fire
- Students will explore the importance of fire for survival, fire safety, and the difficulties Brian Robeson, the main character in Hatchet and The River, faced when trying to start a fire without matches.
Home Sweet Home
- Can you build an outdoor shelter resistant to the elements? Test your skills here! Brian was left to create a shelter from his surroundings. Students will replicate this experience.
Evening Activities
- Each night after dinner, students will participate in many activities. Physical education interests, such as bouldering, basketball, volleyball, and ga-ga will be conducted. A beeswax demonstration will be presented. Furthermore, various art projects are also part of the fun! We will conclude each evening with a campfire full of singing and storytelling.
Reflection
- Students will reflect on their experience through written expression and art during their stay. On the final day of camp, we will hold a closing ceremony. Each group will perform the chant they created for the group and awards will be presented, many of which focus around our themes of survival and respect.