About the Course
Join CTY at the Mount St. Helens Institute in Mount St. Helens, Washington, for an exciting three-day adventure! Experience the stunning Perseid meteor shower and witness a partial solar eclipse, all while exploring the natural world of an active volcano. Students will make field observations, collaborate with peers, and reflect on their experiences, deepening their understanding of nature and themselves.
We’ll spend the days tackling hands-on challenges, including a GPS scavenger hunt, geology-themed hikes, lava races, and hazard mapping, while learning how Earth’s forces shape the world around us. As evening falls, we’ll take a crepuscular walk, do some reflective journaling, then have a blast performing skits, playing games, and relaxing by the campfire. Families will camp out under the stars or in a shared indoor lodging space. Don't miss this unforgettable adventure and opportunity to spend time with others!
Learning Objectives
- Develop scientific inquiry skills by making detailed field observations and engaging in hands-on activities related to geology and ecology while analyzing and discussing the interacting processes of Earth's systems
- Describe geological processes such as volcanic activity, erosion, and sedimentation that shape the landscape of Mount St. Helens
- Assess human impact on natural ecosystems by evaluating at least two case studies related to Mount St. Helens
Tentative Itinerary:
Day One:
- Arrival/Explore the Coldwater Science and Learning Center
- Afternoon activities: Volcano-themed adventure
- Free time
- Dinner
- Night hike: Watch the Perseids meteor shower under the new moon
- Games and evening activities
Day Two:
- Breakfast
- Morning hike: Expert-led ecology/geology activity
- Lunch
- Free time
- Afternoon hike: Visit Coldwater Lake
- Dinner
- Night hike: Crepuscular walk and campfire
- Games and evening activities
Day Three:
- Breakfast
- Morning hike: Expert-led ecology/geology activity
- Lunch
- Departure
About Educational Travel courses
Educational Travel courses offer CTY families a chance to explore the world and make memories with other families of students who love to learn! These courses bring learning to life through engaging, hands-on educational experiences in extraordinary places.
Participating students must be accompanied by a guardian.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
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Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
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