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HOUSATONIC RIVER RESTORATION |
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Canoe
Trip Preparation
Length
of time needed to complete:
One class period
for two sections (i.e. half) of the eighth grade.
Resources/Materials:
Self-evaluation
forms, canoe video, paddle for demonstration, gear and clothing lists, journal
entry prompt.
Procedure:
1. The students will evaluate themselves on both
their swimming and canoeing abilities using a scale of one to five for each.
Students also indicate if they have had prior experience in the stern of a
canoe. These evaluations will be used later to determine groups for the
canoeing experience.
2. In order to become familiar with techniques
and skills, the students will watch a video on basic canoeing and paddling
skills. The video also provides basic river information such as important river
terms and how to read a river.
3. Following the video, there will be a
demonstration of the basic paddling strokes and a discussion of safety
precautions when in a canoe. Students will also learn specific terms for parts
of the paddle and parts of the canoe. In addition, this is time to take
specific questions from the students.
4. Gear and clothing suggestions are made at
this time, with concern given to the water and air temperature and types of
clothing. For instance, nylon and other synthetic clothes are recommended over
cotton clothes due to hypothermia concerns. Old sneakers or shoes are
recommended as well. It is suggested that if students have their own life
jackets or cushions, they should bring them.
5. Students receive a preview at this time of
the journal entry they will be required to complete after the canoe experience.
Assessment:
1. Performance and behavior on the river as
measured by chaperones and school staff members.
2. Journal response after river experience to
specific writing prompt.