While at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden, I have had numerous opportunities to learn and grow as an educator. The garden has an excellent and extremely knowledgeable staff. My externship responsibilities have included lesson planning, grant writing, and assisting with camps/field trips. Although, many of the field trip lessons I’ve been working on are geared toward the lower elementary students, there are some that can be modified to make it rigorous and relevant for my 6th graders.

I especially enjoy working with the the Nature Tales programs. Last week I was asked to teach two programs titled, “Noisy Insects”. Ms. Shiela, from the local library, read aloud to the children and I was responsible for the lesson and craft project. It was exciting until told that I would be introducing the guest of honor…a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach!  At first I thought to myself, “No Problem.” I began by mentally preparing for the hissing sound as I slowly started putting my hand into the tank. I immediately realized, while jumping 3 feet backwards, that the hissing sound I was expecting, sounded more like loud shaking maracas! It was so scary that it took some time before I could muster up enough courage to pick up “Sam” the cockroach. I am happy to report however, that I have faced my fears and enjoyed working with the cockroaches. Also, the children enjoyed Sam. Some of the children although initially fearful, challenged themselves by petting him. I was very proud. One of the children got overly excited and pressed hard while petting him and Sam stuck me with his prickly legs. My fingers were sore for a couple of hours. In spite of all of this, however, I enjoyed learning about and working with the cockroaches.

These experiences have enlightened me to the value of incorporating live animals and insects into my lessons. Seeing the children react to the cockroaches, reminded me of the importance of having engaging lessons. I explained to my mentor that I would like to include hissing cockroaches and millipedes in my classroom. She has decided to assist me in creating a habitats for both. Furthermore, we are including a vermicomposting bin. I’m certain my Principal will be pleased. Maybe not!