Field Trips

Field trips expand learning, increase knowledge and understanding of a subject, and add realism to an area of study. Good planning is essential! Check with your local conference office of education for the field trip policy and guidelines.

Preparation of students for the trip

• Discuss the purpose of the trip and how it relates to the curriculum.
• Teach observation skills.
• Introduce vocabulary words.
• Review behavior expectations for the field trip, including spending money, lunch plans, and appropriate attire.
• Discuss good questioning skills and brainstorm open-ended observation questions.
• Review the schedule.

The day of the trip

Before you leave:

• Give each chaperone a list of duties that includes the names of students in his/her group, your cell phone number, and a reminder to keep assigned students with him/her at all times.
• Assign each student a partner.
• Assign a lead and tail car.
• Get the cell phone numbers of all drivers and chaperones.
• Make sure you have emergency contact information, permission slips, and are aware and prepared for medical needs.

During the trip

• Remind students to stay with their chaperones.
• Plan activities that allow students to work alone or in groups.
• Check in with your chaperones.
• Be sure students are drinking water, have eaten lunches, and are getting appropriate bathroom break allotments.

After the trip

Have the class:

• Share general observations and reactions.
• Share completed assignments.
• Review the connection to the curriculum.
• Thank your field trip site host, chaperones, etc.

Evaluate the trip

Reflect on the field trip to determine whether it was successful and if it would be useful to repeat it in the future. Address any concerns that arose on the trip.