The Curiosity Collection: Observing the Signs Field Log

Pocket-sized prompts for noticing change in the natural world.

The Observing the Signs Field Log & the Sketch Log are small, portable observation booklets designed to help you slow down, notice what is happening around you, and follow the small signs of change that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Across six observations, you are encouraged to record what you notice, observe change, consider cause, make predictions and identify questions for further research.

You don't need to be an expert naturalist. You simply need to be curious.

You may prefer to write your responses, so print the Field Log, or you may prefer to sketch your response, so print the Sketch Log:

Inside the Field Log

Each observation gives you space to record:

• Date, time and place
• What you notice or what seems different
• What you are drawn to and why
• What might be causing a change
• What you think might happen next
• Whether your prediction was correct
• Further research and questions to explore

The six observations are designed to build gradually, moving from noticing to questioning, predicting and investigating.

Inside the Field Sketch Log

Each observation gives you space to record:

• Date, time and place
• What seems different
• What you are drawn to
• Why it has caught your attention
• What might be causing a change
• Further research about the cause

The prompts mirror the observational journey of the Field Log, but replace written description with looking, drawing and noticing.

Take it outside

Print, cut and fold, then carry your Field Log with you on a walk, into the garden, to a local green space, or simply use it from a window.

Choose something to observe and return to it. You might notice a plant, tree, bird, weather pattern, vehicle or human movement or something else that catches your attention.

The aim is to develop the habit of looking closely enough to notice when something changes.

Pairs with the first Curiosity Collection YouTube lesson, Observing the Signs, which introduces the idea of phenology and explores how naturalists learn to notice subtle changes in the natural world.

To support your learning, you can find the mini-tutorial on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/Ohqv1jPkADM?si=5FWHlv2XhEcFTnYd

And here: https://youtu.be/9HimE27J7pI?si=iwQ52U_Syu6o1mnO

Format: 1 x A4 page printable PDF which folds to make a 6-page wallet-sized booklet

Designed for: curious learners of all ages

Use: print, cut, fold and take outdoors

Please note: This is a digital printable resource. No physical product will be posted.

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