New Learning Opportunities Outdoors at Woodhull

Woodhull Intermediate School’s outdoor classroom is presenting students with new learning opportunities and experiences they never even dreamed were possible.

“Woodhull’s outdoor classroom has become a vibrant hub of cross-curricular exploration and student collaboration this spring,” Principal Stephanie Campbell said. “Over the past month, 15 teachers have taken their lessons outdoors and 18 more instructional periods have already been reserved for May. This growing trend highlights Woodhull's ongoing commitment to outdoor, experiential learning.”

A sampling of the experiences include:

Escape the Garden

To prepare for the New York State math assessments, students participated in an engaging “outdoor classroom escape room” activity. Working in teams, they solved five math-based challenges, each leading to clue words hidden throughout the garden. After decoding the final clue, students earned an Escape the garden Certificate and reflected on their learning experience.

Window Work

Chalk markers transformed the outdoor classroom’s windows into interactive learning displays. Students showcased their thinking and learning for the school community to see, creating a gallery of academic expression:

• One class analyzed a “Time for Kids” article and answered comprehension questions directly on the windows.

• Another class worked collaboratively to multiply decimals using an area model.

• Still another class provided feedback on each other’s writing using the windows as a public forum.

Garden-based Learning

Students began planting seeds and transplanting sprouts into the raised garden beds. As they monitor germination and growth, they are learning firsthand about the plant life cycle and how environmental conditions affect development. This work not only supports science learning, but also math and observational skills as students measure growth and track changes over time.

Real World Math Applications

Students are using measurement tools to determine the length and width of various items around the garden, reinforcing geometry and data collection skills.

Ms. Campbell is anxious to watch the last two months of the current school year unfold to watch still more learning opportunities present themselves to students.