4th Grade: Grassland Investigators

Uncovering Prairie Secrets

A wide view of a grassy valley surrounded by mountains under a cloudy sky at sunset.

In 4th Grade: Grassland Investigators, students roam prairie landscapes to study grassland ecology, animal behaviors, and seasonal cycles. They observe wildflowers, track insect populations, and explore how wind and fire shape the open plains.

Through soil core sampling, grass blade art prints, and Indigenous storytelling about prairie stewardship, children deepen scientific reasoning and creative expression. This immersive, hands-on learning builds confidence and fosters a lifelong respect for grassland ecosystems.

Biome Overview
Temperate grasslands feature rolling hills of grasses, wildflowers, and sparse trees, supporting grazing mammals and ground-nesting birds. These ecosystems rely on fire and grazing to maintain biodiversity and nutrient cycling.

Key Concepts

  • Grassland fire ecology and regeneration

  • Plant-animal interactions and grazing dynamics

  • Soil health and carbon storage

  • Pollination and wildflower diversity

  • Traditional prairie land management

Focal Points

  • Silhouette of a person sitting against a rock at sunset, reading a book.

    Internal

    Who Are We?

    Students practice “grass gazing” mindfulness, noting how their breath and heartbeat connect to the undulating prairie.

  • A mountain lion cub lying on a rock, partially shaded by a tree, with rocks and greenery around.

    External

    Who Lives Here?

    Learners identify prairie species, bison, prairie dogs, native grasses, and hear stories from ranchers and tribal stewards.

  • Close-up side view of grass with dewdrops, sunlight shining from the background, creating a warm glow and bokeh effect.

    Metaphysical

    What’s Happening?

    Children measure grass height, track seasonal wildflower blooms, and chart fire’s role in grassland renewal.

  • Tree roots and rocks on the ground in a natural outdoor setting.

    Interconnection

    How Are We Connected?

    By mapping nutrient cycles and grazing patterns, students discover how plants, animals, and humans shape grassland health.

Subjects & Learning Domains

A sign on a white wall reads 'Love to Learn' in black letters on a yellow background. In the background, a person wearing a dark hoodie and sunglasses walks along the sidewalk, with trees and houses visible.

  • Prairie relay races and balance-beam “log walks” develop coordination and teamwork across open spaces.

  • Readings of prairie folktales and historic accounts of grassland cultures spark literacy and cultural connection.

  • Students create grass texture rubbings, pressed flower collages, and landscape watercolors reflecting prairie hues.

  • Hands-on labs include soil pH tests, insect sweep nets, and seed germination experiments, bringing grassland science to life.

  • Field journals and labeled ecosystem diagrams help children describe their observations in words and drawings.

  • “Circle of connection” check-ins and gratitude reflections under prairie skies build empathy and community.