Kindergarten students from Shannon Wellsteed’s class at Yaquina View Elementary recently took their learning outdoors during a hands-on science field experience at Beverly Beach.
During the visit, students explored the shoreline while investigating the environmental impact of nurdles—small plastic pellets used in manufacturing that can pose risks to marine habitats. Students identified animal habitats, observed how marine animals build their homes, and learned how human activity affects coastal ecosystems.
Students from Corrina Hargett’s Newport High School Child Development class assisted with the field experience, supporting younger learners throughout the day. The project also included partnerships with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Throughout the visit, students participated in a Nurdle Patrol survey, collecting, sorting, and counting nurdles by color as part of a scientific observation and data analysis activity. Additional activities included nature journaling, building model crab habitats, and learning how to identify marine debris.
Students will continue their learning in the classroom by using the collected nurdles to create artwork, reinforcing their understanding of marine debris and its environmental impact.