Tips for Successful Field Trips

Biology field trips can have different purposes and take place in a variety of environments. The steps you take and the observations you make can vary greatly. However, field trips often involve common elements, such as the way you plan the event and what you do at the site. If you plan well and organize your activities thoughtfully, your field trips will be more productive and enjoyable. Here are some suggestions to consider.

Planning the Trip

1. Discuss with your teacher and classmates the type of area you will visit and decide what you are likely to gather. This will help determine the materials needed to collect specimens.

2. When you go on a field trip, you will encounter some living things you can collect and some you cannot.

   • For things you can't collect, such as most animals and large plants or plants on other people's property, take a photograph or make a sketch.

   • For things you can collect, such as water samples, soil samples, small plants, flowers, pine cones, fungi, and insects, take containers such as prelabeled plastic bags and jars with lids. Some jar lids should contain air holes. You may also need tools for collecting, such as a small trowel or garden spade for soil and an aquarium net for small water organisms.

3. List the materials you will need, including the following items:

   • data table and blank sheets of paper in a firm notebook or on a clipboard

   • a camera

   • marking pens and writing utensils

   • a magnifying glass

4. Write the steps in your plan. Have your teacher check it for practicality and safety.

During the Trip

1. Before leaving for the site, make sure you have all the materials listed in your plan.

2. Wear sturdy shoes, long sleeves, and long pants. Depending upon the time of year and the site itself, you should also consider wearing insect repellent and sunscreen.

3. Work in the groups that your teacher has assigned.

4. When you collect samples to bring back to the classroom, make sure you follow these rules:

   • Observe all local laws, and respect other people's property.

   • Avoid contact with poisonous plants and animals. Bright colors and highly contrasting colors may indicate that an animal is dangerous.

   • When turning over logs and stones, use a long stick in case stinging insects or snakes are underneath.

   • Do not collect any animals without the permission of your teacher.

   • Remember that all animals must be treated humanely. All vertebrates collected for study, such as small fish or tadpoles, must be returned to their environment unharmed.

   • As soon as possible after you have finished, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

After the Trip

Make sure that the samples you bring back to the classroom for observation are stored under the appropriate conditions. Generally, samples should have access to air (either put holes in the lids of the containers or keep them loosely covered). Do not leave any samples completely uncovered, because they might dry out. Keep the samples cool and do not store in direct sunlight.