KBS K-12 Partnership
For 25 years, we have hosted a partnership among area science teachers and KBS scientists to enhance the content and delivery of the Michigan K-12 science curriculum. The program promotes improved science teaching by providing teachers in-depth exposure to current topics in ecology together with training in outdoor learning and inquiry-based science methods. For more information about this Partnership program, including access to K-12 science curriculum, please visit the Kellogg Biological Website.
Data Nuggets: exercises in evidence-based claims & graphing
Data Nuggets are free activities that give K-12 and undergraduate students practice interpreting quantitative information and making claims based on evidence. Each activity contains real data from cutting-edge research, and features the true stories of KBS LTER and other scientists. To access Data Nuggets, click here, and for a list of activities using LTER data, click here.
Research Experiences for Teachers (RET)
RETs are in-depth, authentic research experiences available to classroom K-12 teachers. These experiences often pair a teacher with a researcher to assist with an ongoing project or complete an independent, co-developed research project. Teachers are compensated and typically expected to develop ways to share their experience with students during the school year. Funds are also made available to purchase supplies for classroom use and to allow travel to participate and present at a professional conference. The KBS LTER has a strong history of successful RET projects and we strive to acquire funding each year to offer these opportunities. For current opportunities, visit the KBS website here.
Field trips to the KBS LTER
We have developed an on-site science activity for elementary students (grades 2 through 5) based on KBS LTER research. With guidance from a trained KBS volunteer, an interactive activity booklet leads students through a 1-mile nature trail at the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, teaching them about agriculture, ecology, and the scientific method. The trail is open April 15 through November 1. Visit the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary’s website to schedule a field trip and find more information on group tours.
Educational Resources
We provide educational resources around topics such as data literacy, climate change, soil health, ecosystem services, and more. Protocols and lesson plans from our GK-12 BEST Schoolyard Research Network cover topics including measuring plant biodiversity, biomass, and soil health. Searchable table of classroom lesson plans created by Scientist Fellows and K-12 Partnership Teachers since 2006.