By Binka | Communications
Hello, dear donors,
Greetings from the rainforest and we hope you are doing well!
First of all we want to send a big thank you to those of you who managed to find us when we had to migrate our project on GlobalGiving to project 69027. The good news is that we are able to return to project 17660 and we really hope you will join us there!
So today, for fun, we want you to imagine you have climbed on the yellow school bus and arrived at Iracambi. All ready to start on your first lesson in the module Ecosytems.
We'll start with a Welcome and Ice Breaker. Everyone forms a circle. Each student shares a remarkable experience with nature (e.g.: an animal they saw, a place they visited, a special feeling in the forest). The facilitator connects the stories with the mission of Iracambi and asks the students "What do you think this place can teach us?"
Objective: Create a connection between students, encourage active listening and generate curiosity about the space.
Next we'll explore the living map of Iracambi. Students in groups of 3 or 4 receive an illustrated map with key points of Iracambi. Each point has an interactive challenge, such as: Medicinal Plant Trail → Find and record at least 3 species (plants or animals). The river and the forest → Observe the water and think about environmental impacts. Seedling nursery → Reflect on the importance of reforestation. The groups take notes, take photos and discuss among themselves.
Objective: Learn about the space together and start getting curious.
Time for a snack A moment to rest and socialize. Informal conversation to exchange initial impressions.
Blind Walk In pairs: one blindfolded student and the other guiding along a safe section of the trail. The blindfolded student should focus on sounds, smells and textures. After 5 to 7 minutes, they switch roles. Group reflection: What did you notice without seeing? How did this change your perception of the environment?
Objective: To stimulate sensory connection and empathy among participants.
Creative Workshop – My View of Iracambi Using paper, colored pencils, paints and natural materials, students represent what most marked them in the experience (drawing, writing, poetry, collage). The facilitator encourages creativity and free expression. Students can share their work.
Objective: To develop reflection and creativity about the experiences lived. Quick question: "What surprised me most today?" (each student answers in a few words). Facilitator summarizes the findings and presents a hook for the next class.
Objective: Reinforce learning and generate anticipation for future meetings.
So that's your first session. We hope you enjoyed it! Please meet us on project 17660 to hear more about the activities of our EcoLeaders and to join them as they learn about the forest!
Goodbye, dear donors, and see you soon!
with love from Dayana and the Young EcoLeaders
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