Students spend time in South Fork’s “outdoor classroom” dissecting flowers using dissection microscopes as they discuss the sexual reproduction system of a flowering plant and how the flower is adapted for the reproduction process. They also discuss how fruit and seed dispersal play an important role in maintaining a species.

Framework

• CDL.7.B.15 – Vascular and nonvascular plant differentiation
• CDL.7.B.16 – Cycads, gymnosperms and angiosperms differentiation
• CDL.7.B.17 – Structure and function of the major parts of a plants: roots, stems leaves and flowers
• CDL.7.B.18 – Relate the structure of Plant tissue to its function: epidermal, ground and vascular

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Classes may also schedule a visit to the SFNC Herbarium in downtown Clinton at the GRF Office, where they learn about the importance of herbarium specimens in research and how the specimens are prepared. The SFNC Herbarium collection contains about 850 plant specimens representing all the species known to exist on the grounds of South Fork.

Framework

• CDL.7.B.15 – Vascular and nonvascular plant differentiation
• CDL.7.B.16 – Cycads, gymnosperms and angiosperms differentiation
• CDL.7.B.17 – Structure and function of the major parts of a plants: roots, stems leaves and flowers
• CDL.7.B.18 – Relate the structure of Plant tissue to its function: epidermal, ground and vascular

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Students will discuss how important it is to be aware of the watershed you live in and how your lifestyle can affect it. They will discuss the watersheds that they live in, including the South Fork of the Little Red River and Cadron Creek watersheds. They will also discuss the importance of the Local Conservation Disctrict, concentrating on the South Fork of the Little Red River.

Framework

• LS.4.5.5 – Examine the role of food, space, water and shelter on the carrying capacity of an ecosystem.
• BD.2.ES.9 – Describe how limiting factors affect populations and ecosystems
• EBR.8.B.1 – Abiotic and Biotic factors in an Ecosystem
• LS.4.8.1 – Analyze the effect of changes in environmental conditions on the survival of organisms and entire species
• EBR.8.B.5 – Population Control Factors in an Ecosystem

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Students can see many specimens of butterflies and moths while discussing the complete metamorphosis of the species. A seasonal release is also conducted annually at South Fork. Usually eggs, larva, chrysalis and adult butterflies are available for observation. The butterflies relax in little cooled envelopes until warmed up for release.

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