4-H Delivers

Sacramento 4-H Teens Teach Science and Stewardship

The Issue

Many children today—particularly those from urban and economically disadvantaged communities—do not have opportunities to investigate and experience the natural world. These children are the stewards of Earth's environmental health, and they need an understanding of ecological principles and life sciences, as well as the chance to discover the workings of nature.

Additionally, engaging youth in meaningful service opportunities leads to greater community involvement. Young people grow to appreciate their responsibilities and rights as conscientious citizens.

What has 4-H Done?

The 4-H On the Wild Side project brought environmental education and outdoor living experiences to elementary school students from Sacramento’s economically challenged neighborhoods. The collaborative project—uniting 4-H, local universities, community organizations, after school programs, and elementary schools—fostered learning, engaged teenagers in authentic leadership, and developed enthusiasm for the outdoors in children and teens. Trained teenagers worked in partnership with adults to plan and deliver all aspects of the program, including two overnight camping experiences in Nevada City for 134 4th-6th grade students. Funds from the 4-H Service-Learning RFP were awarded to the project.

As part of their training, teenagers and volunteers learned how to build science skills when delivering their lessons. Children attending On the Wild Side didn’t just learn about science, they became scientists themselves as they investigated trees, constructed model watersheds, and tested lake water.

The Payoff

Both quantitative and qualitative data point to a rich learning experience for the elementary students and teens participating in On the Wild Side. Pre- and post-tests reveal that the elementary school students gained knowledge about the environmental concepts presented through the program (p=.00), and the children's journal entries confirmed that learning took place. Moreover, almost everyone rated their experience at camp as either good or excellent.

Of the young people who staffed the weekend program, 95% (21 of 22) indicated that they felt they made an important contribution to the community through the project.

Quotes: “My favorite activity was the demonstration of pollutants. I learned that wetlands filter the water for us.”

“We found that vinegar is acid and that baking soda is basic and the lake water is neutral—not much basic or acid and it doesn’t hurt the animals or plants.”

“The camp was very successful. I got to work with my friends and we did a good job. Also, the kids were very fun and I got to meet a lot of them and be their friend. I enjoy(ed) this experience very much.”

For more information, contact the Sacramento County 4-H Office at 916-875-6811 or cesacramento@ucdavis.edu.

Author: Marianne Bird, Sacramento County 4-H YDP Advisor