(Front Row from left: Maha Tanveer, Abbie Washine, Annie Williams, Madelyn McClure, Abigail Bell, Alicia Wertman, Madison Kizer, Gianna Barletta, Olivia Haines. Back Row from left: Sadie Booths, Layla Persaud, Ava Fiorella, Sophia Ochlan, Raegan Fox, Gavin Zeiler, Evan Korea, Patrick Donahoe)
Students in Western Wayne High School’s Advanced Placement (AP) Biology class recently traded their classroom for the forest during an educational field trip to Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station. The hands-on experience allowed students to step into the role of field ecologists as they investigated the complex relationships between organisms and their environment in northeastern Pennsylvania’s woodland ecosystems.
Throughout the day, students participated in authentic ecological research activities designed to connect classroom concepts with real-world environmental challenges. Working in research teams, students explored forest biodiversity, identified native and invasive species, and examined the impact of white-tailed deer populations on forest regeneration.
One of the highlights of the experience was an investigation of Lacawac’s deer exclosures, fenced areas designed to prevent deer from browsing on vegetation. Students compared ecological conditions inside and outside the exclosures to better understand how deer populations can influence plant diversity, forest structure, and the ability of young trees to regenerate.
Using scientific field equipment, including transect lines, ocular tubes, and forest densiometers, students collected data on canopy density, ground vegetation, and plant diversity. These techniques provided students with firsthand experience in the sampling methods used by professional ecologists to study environmental change.
Students also practiced identifying trees and other plant species using dichotomous keys and observational field skills. Discussions about invasive species and their effects on native ecosystems encouraged students to consider the challenges of maintaining biodiversity and protecting Pennsylvania’s forests.
The experience directly supported concepts studied in the AP Biology curriculum, particularly ecology, biodiversity, population dynamics, and the interactions between organisms and their environments. Students were challenged to move beyond simple observations and use scientific evidence to explain ecological patterns and evaluate how environmental factors influence ecosystem stability.
An important component of the field experience was developing students’ scientific reasoning skills. By collecting authentic data, comparing environmental conditions, and considering multiple factors that influence forest health, students engaged in the same types of investigations conducted by practicing scientists.
The trip also reinforced the importance of environmental stewardship, a central theme in Western Wayne’s AP Biology curriculum. By investigating ecological challenges within their own region, students gained a greater appreciation for the importance of conservation, responsible wildlife management, and protecting local biodiversity.
Experiences like this help students recognize that biology extends far beyond the classroom. Through partnerships with organizations such as Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station, Western Wayne students have opportunities to apply scientific knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and explore potential careers in environmental science, ecology, conservation, and natural resource management.
Western Wayne High School extends its appreciation to the educators and staff at Lacawac Sanctuary for providing students with an engaging and meaningful field-based learning experience. This program was funded by the Western Wayne Education Foundation which receives local donations through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program.
