Natural History is a key component to the Lower School
education. Along with detailed classification and regular notation
in scientific journals, the boys actively engage in the natural
surroundings on campus and nearby locations such as Cabin John
Park and the Potomac River. The subject fosters a systematic and
knowledgeable understanding of the natural world as well as the
ability for careful observation, appreciation, and greater awareness
of the dynamic natural world surrounding us. Many of the subjects of
study are similar across the grades, but the study increases in depth
and detail and with different focuses in each grade.

 G R A D E 3
Texts: Golden Guide to Trees, Golden Guide to Insects, Golden Guide to
Reptiles and Amphibians, Birds of Eastern and Central North America
by R.T. Peterson, various supplemental material
Topics: Introduction to insects, trees, birds, small mammals,
amphibians, creek life (Cabin John Creek), light study of weather
and rocks and minerals

 G R A D E 4
Texts: Golden Guide to Trees, Golden Guide to Insects, Golden Guide to
Reptiles and Amphibians, Birds of Eastern and Central North America
by R.T. Peterson, various supplemental material
Topics: Insects, trees, birds, small mammals, amphibians, rocks,
creek life (Cabin John Creek)

 G R A D E 5
Texts: The Plant Kingdom by Ian Tribe, Golden Guide to Trees, Golden
Guide to Weather, Guide to Rocks and Minerals by R.T. Peterson,
various supplemental material
Topics: The plant kingdom, weather, basic geology, the Potomac River