discovery backpacks

Discovery Backpacks provide a unique way for groups to explore the Gardens on their own. There are several different Discovery Backpacks topics, with five identical copies of each backpack. See below for a description of each backpack. Each self-guided Discovery Backpack contains multiple activities for groups to choose from to aid in learning more about the topic. Backpacks contain detailed instructions and all materials for the various activities. When using our Discovery Backpacks, your group should be broken in smaller groups of no more than 10 students. Each small group will be given a Discovery Backpack to be completed under the leadership of an adult chaperone.

Reservations:
To schedule a Discovery Backpack, please call 720-865-3580. Scheduling begins on Aug. 15 for the entire school year. Shortly following your reservation, you will receive an e-mail with copies of all backpack activities. It is highly recommended that you share this information with your adult chaperones to better prepare them to lead the students. Please note that staff will not be available to assist your group in completing the activities. Please click here to read our general information before your field trip.

Cost:
Discovery Backpacks cost $1.50 per student for schools within the SCFD, $3.50 per student for schools outside the SCFD. One adult chaperone (parent or teacher) for every five students is admitted free of charge. Extra adults must pay $4.50 each, no exceptions.

Plantastic Discoveries (Grades K-6)
Explore the fantastic world of plants with a variety of activities. Students can discover the diversity of plants and how they grow, pollinate, adapt to different environments and function in our world.

It's a Bugs Life (Grades K-3)
Unearth the world of insects and bugs in the Gardens. Choose from five interactive activities that require students to make observations, ask questions, make educated guesses, experiment, collect data, draw conclusions based on their data and share their results with others.

Pollination Pack (Grades 2-5)
Pollination is essential to the continuation of many plants. Explore the process of pollination, from basic flower structure and the types of pollinator mouths and eyes to flower messages and who pollinates which flower.

Jungle Survivor (Grades K-6)
Students will be transported to a tropical island where they are stranded for five days until the rescue crew arrives. Using their survival guides, students will find their way to a variety of plants that provide food, water and shelter. During their experience, students will keep a journal of their experiences and thoughts, learn to use a compass and explore some of the island's animals.

Cultural Connections (Grades 4-6)
Beauty, art, agriculture and history come alive as students explore PlantAsia, the Japanese Garden and Sacred Earth. The activities will allow students the opportunity to learn about the role and importance of plants in Asian and Native American cultures.