The goal of the Environmental Education program is to connect children to nature through education. 
Through greater understanding of the natural environment students will develop a feeling of responsibility
to help conserve and protect our planet.

We provide an opportunity for students and their teachers to live together in a less formal environment
than an indoor classroom. This new community, albeit brief, builds an appreciation of talents, abilities
and characteristics not always apparent within the classroom setting.

Our staff models the four core values of the YMCA; caring, honesty, respect and responsibility
and they are incorporated in everything we do.

Environmental Sciences

Stream Ecology
In small groups, students will work together to discover the inhabitants of a stream habitat.
Through discussion, collection, and identification, students unearth the diversity and
interrelationships that are found within the stream. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.3A, 3.4.A, 5.1.A,B, 5.5.A,B, 5.6B, 5.8B, 5.10A,B, 6.6.E, 9.2.C
New York State Learning Standards MST1, MST 4, MST 6, MST 7
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.1A, 4.2A, C, 4.6B, 4.8C

Swamp (Wetlands)
Through a guided tour and hands-on activities, students grow to understand the various
aspects of a wetland which make them so important. Activities revolve around environmental
concerns, the interrelationship to other ecosystems, wild edible identification and specific
characteristics indigenous to swamps. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.4A, 5.1B, 5.8B, 5.10A,B, 6.6B,C,E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, MST 6, HPHE 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.1A-E

Watershed Study
This class capitalizes on students’ natural curiosity, love of riddles, and map skills to lead
them on a tour of both the water cycle and the components of the Fairview Lake watershed. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.3.A; 3.4.A; 5.1.A,B; 5.5.A,B; 5.7.A; 5.8.A,B,C, D;
5.10.A,B; 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, 6
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.1A-E
 
Environmental Issues
Students participate in a simulated town meeting.  While development issues are discussed
concerning a piece of land your students will be familiar with, students must role-play various
interest groups; then present their interest group’s concerns in a cohesive, well-thought out
manner to the rest of their classmates. Issues such as development, habitat, water, wildlife,
and noise pollution are discussed.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 1.2C, 1.3C, 3.1E, 3.3 A, B, C, D, 3.5A, 5.1B, 5.10B,
6.1A, 6.2A,B,C,D, 6.5A,B 6.6C,D,E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, SS 3, SS 5, ELA 1, ELA 3, ELA 4, HPHE 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.3A,B, 4.8C, 5.3H, 6.5

Insects  
This class offers a variety of hands-on activities to lead students to a better understanding of
insects- how they differ from other arthropods, their life stages, how they communicate, and
best of all, how they see.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.3A, 3.4.A, 5.1.A, 5.5.A&B, 5.10.A&B, 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.6A, 4.3C, 4.7B

Wildlife Ecology
With the use of our Nature Lodge, students are able to see, feel, and explore individual animal
specimens:  skunk; raccoon; pheasant; beaver; deer; and red and grey fox.  A comparison study
of skulls helps students learn the diversity of wildlife in New Jersey.  
Activities involving predator/prey relationships, camouflage, and tracking help to aid in the
understanding of the animal world in various habitats. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.3.A, 3.4.A, 5.1.A, 5.5.A&B, 5.10.A&B, 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.3C, 4.6A, 4.7A,B,C, 4.8C

Winter Ecology
Do all animals fly south or hibernate when the winter comes?  Where do animals live
and how do they survive?  What about the plant world - are pine trees called evergreens
for a reason?  Be a part of something exciting with your students in the winter.  Join them
on a hike through the woods as these and many more questions are answered in
our “winter wonderland.”
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.3.A, 3.4.A, 4.1.A, 4.2.D, 5.1.A&B, 5.3.A&B, 5.5.A&B,
5.9.A, 5.10.A&B, 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.6

Winter Water
Equipped with a large drill and plenty of ice beneath your feet, students will venture
out onto Fairview Lake and learn who or what lives beneath the surface and how they do it. 
Insects, fish, mammals and more will surprise both you and your students. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards .1.E; 2.2.B; 2.5.A,B,C,D&E; 9.2.F
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, HPHE 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.5A,D
 
Winter Tracking
Take a journey into the cold and see who travels the path before you.  Learn how to distinguish
the prints of the various animals that inhabit the lands of Fairview Lake and follow the path of
a woodland animal to learn the wealth of  information that can be gathered just by “reading” a path of prints! 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.5A, 3.4A,B, 5.1B, 5.5B, 5.10A,
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, MST 6 
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.5A,D, 4.6

Forest Ecology
A walk through Fairview’s forests gives students the opportunity to appreciate the many
facets of a forest ecosystem.  Hands-on activities and discussions help them comprehend
the interrelationships and diversity that exist in the forest community. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.3.A, 3.4.A, 3.5.A, 4.2.A, 5.1.A, 5.5.A&B, 5.10.A&B, 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, MST 6, HPHE 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.2A-C,4.3C, 4.6A-C,

Geology  
Fairview Lake property is a striking example of glaciations and the geological formations
associated with it.  The camp runs adjacent to the Appalachian Mountain Range which
gives us a fine opportunity to study the varied rock strata and weathering patterns. 
Students also learn about rock formation, glacial activity, erosion and sedimentation
through hands-on activities and exploration. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 5.1C, 5.8C, D, 6.6B, C
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.5A, 7.2A,B

Weather  
Designed to present the basics of weather, this class involves students in several different
experiments to help them understand evaporation, condensation, cloud formation and relative
humidity as well as some other basic weather concepts.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 4.2D, 4.4A, 5.1A, B, 5.3A, 5.6A, 5.7B, 5.8B
New York State Learning Standards MST 1, MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.5C

Owls, Feathers and Fur
Students learn about nocturnal birds of prey through discussion and hands-on activities. 
Dissection of owl pellets to discover what owls eat accompanies this class. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.4A, 5.1B, 5.10A
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.3, 4.7

Predator Prey
Also known as Life and Death in the Forest, this class is a role-playing game acted out
in the forest.  Students are assigned the role of carnivore, omnivore, or herbivore and must find
enough “food” and “water” to survive.  It’s an active way to learn the different angles of life and death
and the food chain/food web concepts.  
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.5,A,C, D; 3.3.A; 3.4.A; 4.1.A; 4.4.A; 5.5.A,B; 5.10.A&B; 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.3

Bats
Students will discuss the unique adaptations of these amazing creatures and dispel any
myths and fears of our only flying mammal! Hands on activities, games and a “bat” snack
are all part of the experience. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.4A, 5.5B, 5.10A
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.6, 4.7

Challenge Education

Action Socialization Experience (A.S.E.)
Students learn the importance of group cooperation and gain listening and teamwork skills
while overcoming a series of physical and mental challenges on our low ropes course.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards  2.1.E;  2.2.A,B&E;  2.5.A,C&D;  2.6.A;  3.3.A;  3.4.A&B;  9.1.B;  9.2.A,B,C,D&F
New York State Learning Standards MST 7, HPHE 1, HPHE 2, ELA 4.
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 1.6, 11.2C

Climbing 
Students develop self-confidence through a personally challenging activity.
With encouragement from trained instructors and classmates, students climb to reach their goal. 
Emphasis is based on personal achievement, not height climbed.  
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.1.E; 2.2.B; 2.5.A,B,C,D&E; 9.2.C,D&F
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 1, HPHE 2.
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 10.4A

High Ropes Course
With trained staff, students will challenge themselves by executing the high ropes course
which includes a multi line traverse, incline log, Burma bridge and zip line.
Recommended for grades 7 and up. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.1A, E, 2.2C, D, E, 2.5A, C, E, 2.6A
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 1, HPHE 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 11.2C,10.4A

Outdoor Skills

Orienteering
Basic compass skills will be taught that will enable students to orient themselves and take
part in one of our orienteering courses.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.2.A&E, 2.5.A, 2.6.A, 4.1.A, 4.2.A&D, 4.5.A&C,
(5.8.D and 6.6.A if topographical maps are used), 9.1.B, 9.2.A&C
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 2.3, 2.9

Wilderness Survival
Students learn various tips for surviving in everyday life along with some hands-on opportunities
to learn how to survive out in the woods.  While cooperating in small groups, students work
together to build a shelter and discuss basic survival steps.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.1.E,F; 2.2.B; 2.5.D; 9.2.A,B,C&F
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 2, ELA 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.5, 10.2, 11.2C

Ridge Hike
Take the opportunity to hike up to Kittatinny Mountain, 1500 feet above sea level, and enjoy the
breathtaking view of Fairview Lake and the surrounding area.  Along the hike we will discuss
various points of interest. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.5.A, 2.6.A, (6.6.A if map-reading is included)
if natural history, geology, etc. are included: 5.5, 5.8, 5.10.
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, HPHE 1
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 7.2, 10.4

Starlab
Starlab is an inflatable, portable planetarium that can hold up to 30 people at a time. 
Specially designed projection cylinders allow us to adjust lesson plans to meet your needs.
Currently available:  Traditional Night Sky Astronomy, Greek Mythology, and Native American Mythology.  
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.4A,B, 5.9A,B,C,D
New York State Learning Standards MST 4,  ELA 2 , SS 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.4D 

Outdoor Math
Learn how to measure distance, your pace, figure out how tall a tree is, and measure
an acre of land without the use of a ruler or tape measurer. Other interesting and useful
pieces of information will be discussed during this class. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.4B, 4.1B, C, 4.2 A,B, 4.4A, 4.5A,D,
New York State Learning Standards 1, MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 2.3, 2.5, 4.2

Coloring Nature with Words
Fairview Lake’s diversity of natural settings serve as inspiration for budding poets,
writers, and reporters.  Students will work alone and in small groups to create a number
of projects utilizing descriptive language and other language arts concepts.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards  3.1.F; 3.2.A,B.C.D; 3.3.C&D; 3.4.A; 5.1.A
New York State Learning Standards 1, ELA 2, ELA 3
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 1.5, 1.6

Eco-Art 
Inspired by the work of Andy Goldsworthy, this class introduces the concept of eco-art,
where process and product does no harm to nature. Students will create eco-art sculptures
and use natural materials to create watercolors. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 1.1.A&B, 1.2.D, 1.3.D, 1.4.A&B, 1.5.A&B, 3.3.A
New York State Learning Standards ART 1, ART 3
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.8, 9.1

Boating/canoeing (Seasonal)
Water safety, equipment use, and paddling techniques are stressed and may be
used as a class or a recreational activity. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.1.E; 2.2.B; 2.5.A,B,C,D&E; 9.2.C,D&F
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 1
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 10.4A

Archery
Students will learn from certified instructors the correct way to handle the equipment,
safety on the course and to practice the skills they have learned.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.1.E; 2.2.B; 2.5.A,B,C,D&E; 9.2.F
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 1, HPHE 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 10.4A

Cross Country Skiing (Seasonal)
Students will learn the fundamentals of cross country skiing, how to fit the equipment
and will practice their skills on various terrains. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.1.E; 2.2.B; 2.5.A,B,C,D&E; 9.2.F
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 1
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 10.4A

Ice Fishing (Seasonal) 
Students venture out onto Fairview Lake and learn the basics of ice fishing. 
Students will learn about lake ecology and how animal and plant survive during the winter months.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.4A, 4.1C, 4.2D, 4.3C, 4.4A, 4.5A,D,
4.6, 1B, 5.2B, 5.3A, 5.5B, 5.6B 5.7A, 5.8A, 5.10A,B 6.6E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4, HPHE 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.1A, 4.2A,C, 4.6B, 4.8C

Living History

Apple Cidering (Seasonal)
Students use an antique cider press to make apple cider.  They also learn more about
apples and the cidering process.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.4B, 5.5A, 6.1A, 6.4A,B
New York State Learning Standards SS 2
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 11.3G

Candle making
Students create hand dipped candles as well as discuss colonial life prior to electricity.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 1.2D, 3.4B, 5.6A, 6.1A, 6.4A,
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 8.3

Colonial Cooking
Students role play the life of early colonists working together to prepare a meal. 
We will focus on cooking over an open fire, while discussing life-style of the colonists. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.5.A&D; 3.3.A; 5.10.A&B; 6.1.A; 6.4.A,B,C&D; 6.5.A; 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards SS1, SS2, HPHE 1
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 8.3, 11.3G

Maple Sugaring
During sugaring season (February through mid March), students participate first hand in the
tapping of maple trees, and sap collection.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 3.3.A; 5.1.A; 5.5.A; 5.6.B; 6.1.A; 6.4.A,B,C,&D; 6.5.A; 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards SS 1, MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 8.3, 11.3G

Natural Dyeing
There are various items found throughout the environment to provide us with natural dyes. 
Students search the land for dye plants, as well as learning  some of the history of natural dyeing. 
They make a string bracelet and dye it to take home.  Dye colors are seasonal.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 1.2D, 3.4B, 5.6A, 6.4A
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 8.3

Papermaking
Paper is part of our daily lives as well as other wood products.  Discussion concerning paper and
the opportunity for students to make their own piece of paper to take home are part of this very relevant activity. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 1.2.D, 3.3.A, 5.1.A, 5.2.A&B, 5.10.A&B, 6.1.A, 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 4.2

Native Americans
A hands-on approach leads students to an understanding of the Native American’s spirituality. 
Native American lifestyle, specifically to the Northeast, is discussed with many participatory activities.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.5.A&D; 3.3.A; 5.10.B; 6.1.A; 6.4.A,B,C&D; 6.6.E
New York State Learning Standards SS 1, SS 2, ART 1
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 7.3 A-C, 7.4A

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Evening Programs

Night Hike
A walk into the night opens up children’s senses and perceptions to night life.  Various sensory awareness activities
are designed to explore the potential of the other senses in a nocturnal environment.  Also, take a tour of the night sky
and get to know some of the constellations. (Sept. through May 15th)
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.5A,2.6A, 3.4A, 5.1B, 5.6 A&B,5.7A, 5.9A,B,C&D
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 1; MST 4
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 3.4D

New Games
Non-competitive field games that assist and aid in group cooperation and communication skills. 
These can be done in small and large groups.
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 2.1.E; 2.5.A,B,C,D; 9.2.C&D
New York State Learning Standards HPHE 1
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 10.4F

Campfire
Fairview Staff will lead students in song and storytelling. Schools may choose to lead this
on their own – FVL staff can provide location and set fire. Approx 30-60 minutes in length. 
New Jersey Core Curriculum Standards 1.2B, C, 2.5A, 3.4B, 5.6B
New York State Learning Standards ART 1
Pennsylvania Academic Standards 9.1, 10.4 

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