During a field trip to the Living Desert, children will use maps to guide them through exhibits representing plants and animals of North America and Africa. They will learn about ecology and geography by exploring the desert environment and different species. The trip provides hands-on experience in map reading while teaching about the geography and adaptations of plants and animals from several continents found at the zoo.

1. Learning
Geography While
Learning
Ecology

2. Objective
During a field trip to the Living Desert children are given a hands on
experience of using a map to guide them on their adventures
through North America and Africa. Children will also learn elements
of ecology while exploring some of plants and animals of these
continents.

3. Introduction
The teacher and tour
guide will discuss the
different path options
that the children can
take to explore the
desert world. They will
also explain why these
plants and animals are
able to live
and adapt
at this zoo.

4. Materials
• $6 per child • Snack Lunch • Transportation

5. Learning Focus
1. Students receive a hands on
experience while learning about
plants and animals, as well as how
to use a map.

6. Learning Focus
2. They learn the geography of North American plants and animals.

7. Learning Focus
3. They learn the geography of African plants and animals.

8. Learning Focus
4. They will even learn the geography of plants and animals
exclusive to the Coachella Valley.

9. Learning Focus
5. In addition, the
students will learn
why these animals
are able to thrive
here in the
Coachella Valley.

10. Conclusion
Giving students a chance to
physically explore their
outside surroundings will
dramatically increase their
ability to retain the
newfound information.