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Moravian Academy in Action
Nature in Action: A Day of Discovery at Longwood Gardens
Earlier this school year, 4th grade students explored the structure and function of plant cells as part of their science curriculum. Building on that foundation, they recently visited Longwood Gardens, where they experienced the wonders of plant life in action. During the trip, students participated in a guided Forest Walk with Ms. Cristina Usino that encouraged thoughtful observation and a deeper awareness of the natural world. Through activities like the Nature Explorer Challenge and Forest Storytime, students were invited to use their imaginations and senses to explore how nature inspires creativity and innovation.
They also engaged in an exciting scavenger hunt throughout the Conservatory, where they identified and learned about a wide range of plants including hydrangeas, bonsais, succulents, tulips, cacti, and waterfall gardens. Armed with their iPads, students captured these discoveries through photography, honing their observation skills while practicing framing, focus, and composition. The opportunity to document their findings through photos added a creative, hands-on layer to their exploration and helped reinforce their learning in a visual and meaningful way.
The highlight for many students was the Conservatory scavenger hunt. The opportunity to roam, discover, and interact with a diverse range of plant species made for a memorable and exciting learning experience. Another favorite stop on the trip was the whimsical Children’s Garden “district,” where students had the chance to discover and play in a space designed just for them. Full of fountains, tunnels, sculptures, and interactive features, this area offered an imaginative and sensory-rich environment that sparked curiosity and joy, blending learning with play in a memorable way.
This enriching experience brought classroom concepts to life in a vibrant, real-world setting. By connecting scientific study with immersive exploration, the trip deepened students’ appreciation for the natural world and encouraged them to think creatively about the connections between plants, people, and the environment. Through hands-on learning and thoughtful observation, students discovered how nature can inspire innovation and inform our understanding of the world around us.
