INSPIRING EARTH SCIENCE FIELD TRIPS - A COMPLETE "HOW TO" MANUAL

High school earth science field trips can provide exciting, memorable, and even inspiring experiences for students, but planning and implementing successful and smooth-running trips can be an overwhelming task for the classroom teacher. This presentation explores the "nuts and bolts" of gaining administrative and parental support, planning itineraries and creating meaningful activities, arranging transportation, accommodations and chaperones, and dealing with emergencies. Three types of trips are described in detail: large group day trips (50 - 75 students), smaller group overnight field trips (20 - 35 students), and backpacking trips with fewer than 10 students. Sample trip descriptions, permission forms, and itineraries will be provided along with tips for planning and preparing group meals, managing student behavior, and providing an experience that is both educational and enjoyable for everyone. Get the benefit of 25 years of successful field trip experiences and learn why our field trip to the Catskill Mts. was featured in last summer's New York Times series on the Hudson River School painters.