Middle School Students Explore Biodiversity in Costa Rica

This post is from Paula Vigue, a computer science/literacy teacher from Winslow

Costa RicaStudents from Winslow Junior High School, led by Winslow teacher Mrs. Paula Vigue, spent a week in Costa Rica during the 2014 summer. Their job was to research the biodiversity of the area, the flora and animals, specifically bats, amphibians, and reptiles. In addition, students were able to see a volcano close and personal, see the black-sands beach, and spend time in the hot springs. That was only the beginning!

Costa Rica Study Group Led by Paula Vigue
Costa Rica Study Group Led by Paula Vigue

Students and parents alike, zip-lined through the trees of a tropical rainforest and worked together to conquer the rapids (and their fears) before performing a biological survey and water tests on that same river. Learning the local food and dance were other experiences shared by all. It was an amazing science adventure!

“I really liked learning about the poisonous dart frogs. The Blue-jean dart frog was everywhere.” ~Ryan

“The beach had black sand! It was funny that they had beans and rice at every meal, even breakfast!” ~ Ely

Costa Rica“The food was delicious. There were so many interesting tropical fruits and juices. I’ve never tasted such fresh, yummy pineapple. The cows were strange looking- skinny with baggy skin. Our guide was great. He made it fun and interesting; he was very knowledgeable.” ~Lassandra

“Zip-lining was awesome! I’m glad you made me do it.” ~Stephanie

bat copy“The spider monkey fight was the highlight of the trip. I also like learning about the bats and seeing what they consumed.”

Next science trip is to Iceland the summer of 2016!

 

 

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