Lesson Plans By Unit

Comparing Ecosystems - Sam's Point is an exceptional site to study three dramatically different habitats in close proximity: an oak forest, a slab rock habitat and the ridge-top pine barrens. Students are divided into three groups to survey one ecosystem each. Later, all three groups share their data and develop descriptions of the three areas, using their data and observations to decipher some of the factors that influence the characteristics of an ecosystem.

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This part of the Teaching Hudson Valley project focuses on the cultural history of the huckleberry pickers of the last century and the interdependence between native industries and environmental factors. In this case, the rugged ridge top with its layers of acidic soil, warm days and cool nights created the perfect environment for a bounty of wild huckleberries. It was also the perfect place for a summer camp community. These pre-activities are designed to familiarize students with the people and the industry, through photographs, and period news articles, prior to viewing the film which will introduce the students to some of the former huckleberry pickers.

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