The people you meet in “Exploring the High Frontier” work in conditions that many people would find frightening and difficult. Yet these scientists return to the rain forest canopy again and again. Why do they do it? As you watch them work, you realize that they find joy in discovering new species and excitement in figuring out how to get from tree to tree. Like explorers of space or the ocean depths, they are going where no humans have gone before. Along with the adventure is the satisfaction of knowing that the knowledge they bring back will help conservationists make a case for protecting the rain forest canopy.

Grades K-4

Into the Woods
Be an explorer. Take a walk in the woods or another natural area. You’ll have to be very quiet! Watch and listen to the natural life around you. What do you see? What do you hear? When you get back to school, cut out construction paper animals and plants and create a forest or other natural area on the bulletin board.

Grades 4-8

Ladder to the Sky
You saw adventurous scientists using a variety of ways to get up into the rain forest canopy, from blimps to simple climbing techniques. Rain forest explorers also use cranes and ladders to reach the tall treetops. With a partner, invent a new way to reach the rain forest canopy. Make a drawing of your invention. Then build a three-dimensional model of your invention.

Calling All Cinematographers
Neil Rettig has made a career as a wildlife cinematographer, capturing animals on film as they go about their daily lives. What qualities do you think it would take to pursue this career? Write a newspaper classified advertisement that lists the qualifications needed to pursue this profession.

Grades 9-12

The Green Roof of the World
When Dr. Nalini Nadkarni emerges from the high crowns of the rain forest canopy she exclaims, “I can see forever!” Write a poem about the experience of breaking through the shadowy branches to the top of the rain forest canopy. Think about what it must be like up there, whether on a sunny day or when the clouds enclose the forest. If you prefer, express your vision of the rain forest canopy in a drawing or painting of the “roof of the world.”