Field Trips
- Grade Level:
- Upper Elementary: Third Grade through Fifth Grade
- Subject:
- Science
- State Standards:
- 3-LS4-3 Some organisms can survive well, less well, and not survive at all
4-LS1-1 Organisms have internal and external structures that support survival
5-LS2-1 Movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment
“Finding Hot Springs’ Habitats” is an environmental science program training students to “read” the many habitats of Hot Springs National Park. The program first visits several open-air springs, where students will conduct water testing experiments to understand the thermal water environment and organisms able to survive in the hot springs. The students then follow a 0.5-mile naturalist hike to discover signs of habitats that are clues to the health of the ecosystem that protects the water cycle.
The program is developed for 2nd through 4th grade students but has been successfully modified for 1st through 5th grade.
Curriculum Connections
"Finding Habitats" pairs well with classes learning about aquatic and terrestrial habitats, food webs, native-invasive plants, adaptations, and ground water filtration.
During the program, students will use observation skills to find the characteristics of aquatic and terrestrial environments. Students may use testing equipment to collect data on the spring water. Students will also explore the forested hillside to learn about plants and habitats, either using role-play games or observation.
Teachers may request a pre-visit from a ranger. These programs typically introduce the concept of the National Park Service and offer a brief overview of the program concepts.
Teachers can download the materials below for a description of the state standards and program objectives related to this program.
Education Movies
Teachers are encouraged to use the short videos found on our Curriculum Materials page to introduce the basic concepts of the Hot Springs water cycle to your classroom.
Curriculum Materials - Hot Springs National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
Program Logistics
In-park programs are typically scheduled for 1.5 hours. The first half-hour in the program time allows flexibility for arrival times and restroom needs. Students are able to use the restrooms either in our basement restrooms or the public restrooms along Bathhouse Row prior to the program beginning.“Finding Hot Springs' Habitats” is an outside program. Students will be walking on pavement during the entirety of the program. Close-toed shoes, sunscreen, water, and appropriate layers are recommended.
See the Hot Springs weather forecast here:7-Day Forecast 34.49N 93.06W (weather.gov)
During the program, students will walk around the Display Spring, the Grand Promenade, and the Tufa Terrace Trail. They will examine thermal springs and forested areas.
After the ranger-led program, groups are welcome to explore other areas in the park.
* Fordyce Bathhouse: Self-guided exhibits, 17-minute park film, ranger led public programs.
* Junior Ranger program: Request books in advance or at the Fordyce front desk.
* Hot Springs Mountain Tower
* Hiking Trails
* Picnic areas at Gulpha Gorge Picnic Area, Hot Springs Mountain, and West Mountain.
Chaperones
Groups can be up to 30 students for each ranger. Having 1 adult chaperone per 10 students is preferred.Chaperones are expected to help group movement, help students make curriculum connections, and help during any emergency events.
Pick Up and Drop Off
For "Finding Hot Springs' Habitats", groups will meet in front of the Fordyce Bathhouse at 369 Central Avenue. *A drop-off area is accessible at the front of the building.
Nearby parking options include City of Hot Springs Visitor Center (629 Central Avenue), Free Parking Garage (274 Exchange Street), and street parking on nearby side streets.
Buses can pick up students in front of the Fordyce at the conclusion of the program.
Materials
Download Finding Hot Springs' Habitats--3rd-5th Environmental Science Program--Adaptations
Download Finding Hot Springs' Habitats-2nd Environmental Science Program--Habitats
Last updated: April 21, 2024