Field Trips
- Grade Level:
- Middle School: Sixth Grade through Eighth Grade
- Subject:
- Science
- State Standards:
- 5th:
5-ESS2-1, 5-ESS3-1
6th:
6-ESS2-4, 6-ESS3-3, 6-ESS3-4
7th:
7-ESS2-2
NGSS:
MS-ETS1-1, MS-ETS1-2
This program explores the ways that Hot Springs National Park protects the natural water cycle and harnesses the water for human use. Students will explore different challenges from habitat protection to engineering that the park faces in protecting the 143-degree thermal water for public use.
This program has been developed for 5th-7th graders but has been successfully modified for students grades 8th-10th.
Curriculum Connections
"Protecting the Water" pairs well with classes learning about engineering and human impacts in the environment. If staffing is available, programs may add emphasis on fire ecology, hydrology, and groundwater filtration.During this program, students may also design engineering strategies to deliver the water for human consumption in the park. Depending on time and staffing availability, students may conduct water science tests to identify the characteristics of the hot water--focusing on pH, Total Dissolved Solids, and Temperature. Students may also conduct a naturalist hike to explore the challenges and strategies involved in keeping the Hot Springs environment protected.
Teachers may request a pre-visit from a ranger. Pre-visit programs typically introduce the concept of the National Park Service and offer a brief overview of the concepts related to the program.
Teachers can download the materials below for a description of the state standards and program objectives related to this program.
*The education team is in the process of adding pre- and post-visit and teacher-led materials related to this program.
Please Note: This program is ideal for schools interested in service-learning programs. Service Learning programs would take place over multiple trips and require collaboration with park Volunteer Coordinator.
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.Extended versions of this program may last up to 2 hours. Requires a special request.
“Protecting the Water” 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 along the Grand Promenade. They will examine rock outcroppings and thermal springs.
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 "Protecting the Water" programs, groups will meet in front of the Administration Building on the south end of Bathhouse Row at 101 Reserve Street.
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 Protecting the Water-Middle School-STEAM/Environmental Science Program
Last updated: April 21, 2024