Bison Bootcamp
Elk Island National Park
Prepare to be immersed in the world of bison! This module-based program explores the multi-faceted story of bison conservation in Canada.Topics covered directly link with aspects of the Grade 3, 5 and 7 Social Studies and Science curricula; broad topics include Canadian ecology, history, culture, archaeology and current events. Alberta Education’s dedication to incorporating Indigenous and traditional views are also reflected.
Learning Objectives
- The links between Indigenous peoples and bison;
- The factors that led to the near-extinction of this iconic creature in North America;
- The role that bison play in the plains ecosystem; and,
- The significant role that Parks Canada and Elk Island National Park has played in the recovery of this species over the last 100 years.
Modules
This program is tailor made to the needs of your group. Choose 5 of the following 7 modules for a full day field trip.
Guardians of the Grassland
Equipped with magnifying glasses and a guide, classes will investigate how bison shape grasslands from where they go, what they bring with them, to what they leave behind.
- Grade 3: Plant and animal interaction, investigation for understanding
- Grade 5: Investigation for understanding
- Grade 7: Interactions within an ecosystem
- Suggested other grades: 1, 2, 4
Bison Backstage
A shortened version of Bison Backstage where you will tour the Plains Bison handling facility.
- Grade 3: Settlers and First Nations interactions with animals and the land
- Grade 7: European imperialism, ecosystem interactions
- Suggested other grades: 4
Bison Survivin’
An active tag-like game modified to illustrate the decline of bison and the factors that contributed to their near-extinction.
- Grade 3: Land development and settlers in the prairies
- Grade 7: Co-existence among peoples, interactions between species
- Suggested other grades: 1
Bison Grocery Store
A matching game of pre-contact Indigenous-made items derived from bison and post-contact equivalents.
- Grade 3: First Nations and Métis use of materials
- Grade 5: How social scientists develop understanding
- Grade 7: Indigenous way of life and trade materials
- Suggested other grades: 1, 2
Build a Bison
A hunt for bison bones followed by hands-on discovery of the physical adaptations of bison.
- Grade 5: Digestive and Musculoskeletal system
- Suggested other grades: 1
Travel Back in Time
An interactive archaeological dig where your class will discover the wonders of different time periods in the Beaver Hills.
- Grade 3: Earth’s history is in its layers, First Nations in Alberta
- Grade 5: Social scientists journey to understanding, archaeology
Bison Conservation Toss
A fast-paced relay race based on Elk Island’s Bison transfers. Help Bison get to their new location and avoid disease and predators.
- Grade 3: Conservation
- Suggested other grades: 1, 2, 4
Teacher information
Students will understand:
- To book: Email interp.elkisland@pc.gc.ca
- View cost on fee page
- Capacity: Two groups maximum per day; 30 students per group
- Offered: Monday to Friday, each program is 4 hours. Generally, 10 am to 2 pm (can be adjusted slightly if needed)
- Language: Available in English or French
- Please ensure that all schools have a fair chance to participate in our programs: give us at least two weeks' notice of any cancellations, so that we may offer the time slot to another class.
- Supervisor to student ratios:
- A minimum of 1 supervisor for every 10 elementary students is required
- A minimum of 1 supervisor for every 15 secondary students is required
How the program works
- Meet your interpreter at the Visitor Information Centre approximately 10 minutes before your scheduled program time.
- Your class will take part in the 5 modules selected at booking.
- This program is a total of 4 hours in duration with approximately 3 hours dedicated to program time with a lunch break midway.
- This program is run entirely outside, so dress for the weather!
- Date modified :