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The Best Fifth Grade Field Trips (In Person and Virtual)

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Being the oldest student on campus affords some privileges, not the least of which is a minimum of one awesome field trip. No baby field trips here. Take advantage of having more mature learners, and try one of these engaging field trips that you can only really do in fifth grade.

Not all of these trips will be possible everywhere, but keep in mind any local treasures that are unique to your area. And when you can’t manage a trip—for whatever reason—try our virtual fifth grade field trips below.

In-Person Fifth Grade Field Trips

1. tv station.

Current events are important in fifth grade, so take your students to learn what it really takes to put on a newscast. They’ll get to see the sets up close, meet the anchors, and maybe even be featured on the evening news (and what fifth grader doesn’t want to see themselves on television?).

2. Art Museum

Fifth graders can perhaps appreciate fine art in a way that younger students cannot. I remember being captivated by the impressionists at that age. I’m not saying a 10-year-old won’t laugh at a nude statue or painting, but they just might learn to appreciate it. And they should.

3. College or University

As they approach middle school, now is an ideal time to get fifth graders thinking about higher education. Take a tour, observe a class, meet college students, and visit a sports complex, bookstore, or library to get a feel for college life.

4. Community Theater

Children’s theaters often have options for older students, but for fifth graders, a local community theater is also a possibility. Lots of musicals are fifth-grade friendly. They might also enjoy an adaptation of a classic like The Secret Garden or Peter Pan , which local theaters frequently put on.

5. History Museum

Fifth grade social studies focuses on all 50 states. If they already went to the state history museum in fourth grade, you might try something with more national relevance, like a manuscript museum (I saw Richard Nixon’s actual resignation letter in Tacoma, Washington!).

6. State Capitol

Bring your government and civics unit to life with a visit to your state capitol. Try to time your visit for when Congress is in session so kids can get a peek at representative democracy in action. If they can meet some elected officials, even better!

7. Local Creek, Pond, or Lake

Plan to spend some time outside with your fifth graders. This might include a clean-up event to get students involved in community service. It could also be an opportunity to observe plant and animal life or take water samples for testing.

8. National Historic Site

There are plenty of sites that are significant to your state, but what about those that played a role in U.S. history? For example, Pearl Harbor in Hawaii or the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama. Check out the full list of U.S. National Historic Landmarks by state .

9. Botanical Garden

Most botanical gardens offer a self-guided tour option, which is a great way for students to take in the diversity of plant life. Bring notebooks and let them sketch! And consider adding on a hands-on plant science workshop (like a flower dissection!) if that’s available.

10. Ropes Course

You might consider this a “just for fun” field trip, but students will learn teamwork, cooperation, and strategy through the obstacles. Ropes courses are self-esteem boosters, and fifth graders moving on to middle school could use a good dose of confidence.

11. Planetarium

If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world experience for your STEM-loving fifth graders, take them on a trip to a planetarium. They’ll get a chance to stargaze while learning all about the wonders of space.

12. Concert Hall

If you’re within driving distance, consider a trip to a philharmonic or symphony concert hall. Some venues offer special programs to schools, and others allow schools to attend rehearsals for an upcoming show. Local concert halls are another great option to foster music appreciation through choral groups, jazz bands, and more musically talented community members.

13. National, State, or Local Park

Depending on the location, there may be options for a guided tour by a park ranger or a self-guided tour. Either way, your students will enjoy learning about wildlife and plants while getting some exercise and fresh air. Many parks even waive admission fees for educational groups.

Virtual Fifth Grade Field Trips

1. amazon robotics fulfillment center tour.

Ever wonder how Amazon delivers packages at lightning speed? Take your fifth graders on a 45-minute behind-the-scenes tour of an Amazon fulfillment center  to see how computer science, engineering, and real people work together to make the magic happen. During this interactive virtual field trip, students meet Amazon engineers who explain concepts like algorithms and machine learning. It’s aligned to NGSS, CSTA, and ISTE standards, and there’s also a Teacher Toolkit that includes a facilitation guide plus student worksheets, certificates, and extension learning opportunities. (Hint: If you like this virtual field trip, look for the release of more Amazon Future Engineer Tech Tours. The next one, Space Tour, will be available in October 2022.)

2. Slime in Space

Nickelodeon teamed up with two astronauts on the International Space Station to demonstrate how slime reacts to microgravity and had kids reproduce those same demonstrations back here on Earth. It makes for an amazing 15-minute virtual field trip!

3. U.S. Census Bureau

Kids can learn about the 2020 Census and how census data is collected and used. This virtual field trip also features interviews with subject matter experts and an interactive challenge.

4. Ellis Island

Want to enhance a unit on immigration at the turn of the century? Look no further than this virtual field trip to Ellis Island , the former immigration inspection station in New York Harbor that is also home to the Statue of Liberty.

5. Metropolitan Museum of Art

Bring the iconic New York museum into your classroom or home! Experience the Met online with any of the 26 online galleries , including Christian Dior: Ball Gowns and The Art of Music Through Time.

6. Google Arts & Culture

A collaboration with more than 1,200 leading museums and archives, Google Arts & Culture is an incredible source for learning about monumental works of art. We recommend the Street View virtual tours as well as Art Zoom guided tours.

7. National Constitution Center

The National Constitution Center serves as a “headquarters for civic education.” Their main exhibit, Story of We The People, guides visitors through milestones in America’s history while revealing how the U.S. Constitution is as important today as it was in 1787. Check out the Interactive Constitution section , and be sure to watch the virtual tour .

8. Colonial Williamsburg

This living-history museum provides a look into life in an early American community. The website offers eight different webcams , featuring areas such as the tavern, the armory, and the market house.

9. National Park

If you can’t take an in-person trip to a national park, there are plenty of virtual field trip options for fifth graders. For example, you can learn about glaciers, fjords, and volcanoes during this virtual field trip to Alaska and Hawaii national parks . There are also virtual field trips available to Wyoming and Utah national parks , California and Nevada national parks , as well as Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Colorado national parks .

What are your favorite fifth grade field trips? Come and share in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out best field trip ideas for every age and interest (virtual options too).

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260+ Field Trip Ideas for Grades Pre-K Through 12 (In-Person and Virtual)

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41 Exciting Project-Based Learning Field Trip Ideas

August 14, 2023 //  by  Lauren Du Plessis

Discover a world beyond your classroom with 41 vibrant project-based learning field trip ideas. As teachers, we continually seek new ways to engage and inspire our young learners. For this reason, we’ve curated a list of unique educational destinations- each offering a wealth of hands-on learning experiences for you and your young explorers! From museums to farms, TV stations to local startups, these trips will ignite curiosity and enhance learning, so let’s jump right in to explore more.

Preschool (3-5 years)

1. puppet theater.

Ever wondered what your puppets would say if they could talk? It’s time to unleash creativity and weave magic with a charming puppet theater. The stage is set, the lights dim, and your young puppeteers have a chance to spin enchanting tales for all of their peers to enjoy.

Learn More: Bob Baker Marionette Theater

2. Children’s Museum

This next field trip idea allows your littles to discover something new with every step they take! Children’s Museums are a galaxy of interactive exhibits- with every room designed to pique curiosity and spark fascination.

Learn More: MCM

Let’s swap those classroom walls for sun-drenched fields and wide-open skies. Among the chirping birds and friendly farm animals, your kids can delve into the heart of rural life; discovering a new respect for farmers and all the hard work they complete.

Learn More: YouTube

4. Local Library

Let the local library shelves whisper tales of mystery, adventure, and knowledge into your students’ ears. Watch as their curious minds unearth the joy of reading and embark on countless journeys through the pages of their favorite books.

Learn More: The Colorful Apple

5. Petting Zoo

Ready for a fuzzy, furry adventure? The petting zoo awaits to greet your students with an assortment of friendly wildlife. As your kids pet and care for these adorable animals, they’ll learn important lessons about empathy and responsibility.

Learn More: Seattle’s Child

6. Fruit Picking Farm

Swap the hustle and bustle of the city for a day amidst vibrant orchards. A fruit-picking farm offers an opportunity to pluck, taste, and learn about various fruits. As your students reach out for those ripe apples and juicy strawberries, they are sure to experience the farm-to-table journey firsthand.

Learn More: Smith’s Nursery Inc.

7. Toy Factory

Step into a life-sized playhouse with your students by taking them on an enchanting trip to the toy factory! Watch the wonder evolve as they discover the intriguing process behind how their favorite toys get created.

Learn More: Trip.com

8. Children’s Art Studio

Welcome to the colorful chaos of a children’s art studio! Here, creativity reigns supreme, and messes are masterpieces in the making. Let your little Picassos unveil themselves through their imaginative designs and creations.

Learn More: Art Fun Studio

9. Aquarium

Dive into a magical underwater realm with a trip to the aquarium! As your students marvel at the vibrant marine life, they’ll gain insights into the mysteries and beauty of our oceans.

10. Local Bakery

Tell your students to grab their chefs’ hats as you step into the aromatic world of a local bakery. During this scrumptious adventure, they will discover the science behind baking and might even get to try their hands at decorating cookies!

Learn More: Good Time DIY

11. City Park

There’s more to city parks than meets the eye. These spaces are living classrooms nestled in nature- offering lessons about local wildlife and providing countless outdoor activities for your students to indulge in.

Learn More: City Park Conservancy

12. Dance Studio

Let your students be entranced by the beat of the music and the flow of movement at a local dance studio. This field trip provides a space where your little ones can discover the joy of dancing, paired with the harmony between body and mind. Get their feet tapping and their hearts racing on this rhythmic journey.

Learn More: Jadore Dance

13. Botanical Garden

Envision the botanical garden as a living book of floral wonders just waiting to be explored by your kiddos. As they wander through a stunning array of plants, they’ll uncover the fascinating world of nature’s extraordinary diversity.

Learn More: Naples Garden

Elementary School (6-10 years)

14. planetarium.

Buckle up and prepare your pupils for a cosmic journey as they visit a local planetarium! As they gaze at the starlit dome, the mysteries of the universe are displayed- sparking curiosity and wonder about the cosmos with a quick voyage amongst the stars!

Learn More: HRM

15. Historical Museum

Step back in time with a trip to the historical museum. Each artifact tells a riveting tale; bringing history to life for your young explorers. From stone tools to vintage attire, every exhibit is a time capsule for your elementary learners to enjoy.

Learn More: History Colorado

16. Art Museum

Embark on a kaleidoscopic journey by visiting an art museum. This artistic adventure is sure to awaken your students’ creative side and inspire a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Learn More: The Art of Education

17. Recycling Center

Reduce, reuse, recycle! At the recycling center, your everyday trash gets transformed into treasures! Here, your children can discover the importance of recycling and how it preserves our planet- making this a memorable lesson in waste management.

Learn More: Rethink Waste

18. Science Museum

How about a trip to the science museum to ring home those hard-to-explain concepts? Interactive exhibits morph complex scientific concepts into fun-filled experiences; resulting in a hands-on approach to learning that lets your kids experience the thrills of scientific discovery.

Learn More: EdSurge

19. Historic Houses

Peek into the past with a visit to historic houses. As your students walk through these corridors of history, they’ll develop an appreciation for the heritage and culture of eras gone by.

Learn More: Simple Homeschool

20. Conservatories

Welcome to the conservatory, where every plant holds a lesson in biology, conservation, and ecology. As your children discover the wonder of our green planet, they’ll be encouraged to take better care of our Earthly home.

Learn More: Phipps Conservatory

21. Music Studio

Transport your students to a world of rhythm and rhyme with a trip to the music studio. Here, your learners are sure to strike the right chord in more ways than one- getting an introduction to different instruments and the recording process at large.

Learn More: PBS

Middle School (11-13 years)

22. tech company.

What does the future look like? Let your students discover this answer for themselves at a tech company! In our ever-changing world of technology and innovation, your children will gain insights into the possibilities of tomorrow!

Learn More: The Tech Interactive

23. Archaeological Sites

Give your students the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of their ancient ancestors by visiting an archaeological site. As they explore these open-air museums of human history, they’ll connect with the past and unravel the threads of evolution and civilization.

Learn More: Explore Hampi

24. University Laboratory

Enter the frontier of scientific discovery with a visit to a university laboratory. In this bustling hub of investigation, your student’s experimental ambitions are sure to be sparked; feeding their curiosity and opening their eyes to the wonders of scientific exploration.

Learn More: The Cre8ive Zone

25. Theater

Lights, camera, action! Let your students experience the enchanting world of performing arts with a visit to the theater. From costume design to dramatic performances, they’ll get a glimpse of the magic behind the curtains- igniting a passion for drama and possibly even playwriting!

Learn More: KMS Drama

26. Sports Complex

As your students sprint on the tracks or score goals on the fields, they’ll learn the importance of teamwork, physical fitness, and healthy competition. Taking them to the local sports complex teaches them that not only winning is celebrated, but taking part matters as well.

Learn More: LA Galaxy

A fun-filled adventure to the zoo is a classic field trip idea! Every enclosure will provide your learners insight into the beauty of the animal kingdom; inviting them to discover facts relating to animals from around the world and learn more about the importance of conservation efforts.

Learn More: Lincoln Park Zoo

28. Community Service Centers

At community service centers, kindness isn’t just a virtue; it’s a way of life. Here, your children will learn about the power of empathy and helping others- reinforcing the crucial lesson of giving back to the community. This field trip will allow them to grow, not just as individuals; but as compassionate members of society.

Learn More: Lancaster Edu

29. Local Newspaper

The bustling newsroom of a local newspaper opens a window into the world of journalism. Amid the clattering keyboards and the urgent phone calls, your learners can grasp what goes into the process of news creation, from just a spark of information to a published article.

Learn More: English Classes Cygnaeus Pori

30. Historical Reenactment Sites

Journey back in time by taking your students to historical reenactment sites. Here, history gets brought to life through vibrant performances where your kids can learn about the past in a way that textbooks could never teach them!

Learn More: Student Travel Planning Guide

31. Weather Station

I’m sure all your students have wondered how the forecast predicts if you need an umbrella or sunglasses! Answer their burning questions by taking them to your local weather station. From temperature readings to radar images, they’ll get a firsthand experience of meteorology!

Learn More: CW3E Edu

High School (14-18 years)

32. national park.

In the national park, lessons are etched in the rings of trees and whispered on the wings of butterflies. It’s here that your children can learn about the harmony of nature and the importance of conservation- bonding with the great outdoors and having a well-deserved break from classroom life.

Learn More: Global Travel Alliance

33. TV Station

The TV station pulls back the curtain on the captivating world of television production. From script writing to broadcasting, your learners will get the chance to witness the exciting process of how their favorite shows get created.

34. Biotech Company

Venture into the cutting-edge world of Biotech! Here, your students will get a glimpse into the science that is shaping the future of health and medicine. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that could inspire the next generation of biomedical innovators.

Learn More: Promega Connections

35. Local Government Office

With this field trip your pupils can learn about the inner workings of local governance- getting a practical understanding of civics that no textbook could provide. Bonus: It’s a hands-on lesson in leadership and responsibility.

Learn More: Nations Classroom Tours

36. News Studio

Enterinto the bustling energy of a live broadcast studio. From the anchors’ desks to the control room, your children will get a dynamic view of live journalism to fuel a deeper understanding of the world we live in.

Learn More: Olympic High School

37. Courthouse

Step into the halls of justice with a visit to the courthouse. Given the opportunity to learn about all kinds of legal processes, your learners can gain real-world insight into the judicial system; promoting a better understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.

Learn More: FHN Today

38. Botanical Research Institute

Green thumbs at the ready! Taking your kids to the botanical research institute offers a unique opportunity for them to learn about the importance of plants and their environmental significance. Who knows, this could be the seed that grows into a future career in botany!

Learn More: GITM Edu

39. Architectural Firms

Explore the nitty-gritty blueprints behind society with this field trip! As your learners observe how architects design and build, they’ll gain an appreciation for the relationship between art, science, and community at large.

Learn More: Arch Design

40. Local Startups

Welcome to the ambition playground! On a trip to local startups, your students will witness the journey of how an idea transforms into a thriving business. This trip might inspire them to become the startup heroes of tomorrow

41. Film Studios

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the big screen! From script to screen, your learners will witness the mesmerizing process of filmmaking. This cinematic adventure might inspire the next generation of filmmakers within your school!

Learn More: NST Group

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Field Trip Ideas for 5th Graders

• by Jenna Boyer
• July 19, 2023

Field Trip Ideas for 5th Graders – we have some for you here. All set to take your students for the perfect field trip but don’t know where to start? We’ll help you out.

No, it’s not just packing your bags and leaving. There’s some planning that needs to go for a safe and enjoyable field trip.

The first is to pick a good place, then comes your preparations as a teacher. If you have experience taking students on field trips previously, you might have some ideas and tips to follow. But if it will be your first outing with your 5th graders , then here we are with a few tips and ideas you can follow to make an exciting field trip plan and execute that plan successfully.

Zoo/Aquarium/Planetarium

Animals specifically interest elementary students. Thus, what place could be better than taking them to a zoo or aquarium, or planetarium on their field trip? Such a field trip will not only be educational, as kids will get to know about animals, birds, and sea creatures, and their features, but they will be fun-filled, seeing so many animals together.

A trip to any of these places is going to be full of science. Kids will get to know about living creatures, planets, and everything that surrounds us. Apart from this, it will become an exciting way to bring your students close to nature. 

I agree that a Museum might sound boring to kids, but a museum trip can be exciting and fun. What else will be better for students than getting in-depth knowledge about their history? The museum contains many artifacts, paintings, and a lot of historical consequences that might interest students. And even if not, kids can enjoy watching new stuff, which they don’t see regularly.

And don’t forget the special museum show that every museum conducts for the educational purpose of students and at the same time, build their interest in those historical consequences. Your students will enjoy this change in their environment and get vital information about their local culture and history.

Farm or Orchard

If you want to bring your students a little bit closer to nature and fresh air, then a Farm or Orchard is the best place where you can take them on a field trip. Food production or more commonly known as agriculture is one of the most crucial parts of life sciences. While on a field trip to a farm or orchard, you can teach the importance of food and farmers to your students.

You can teach them how to sow a seed, how it grows, and becomes a plant from where we got our food. Apart from this, kids can learn everything, including biology, animal husbandry, conservation of ecology, and life sciences.

Your students will get access to fresh fruits or can talk to farmers and animals there. Your kids are going to enjoy this interactive field trip close to nature.

Ropes Course

5th graders, being young , are full of energy. You can opt for a smart option to provide a better adventure and thrill experience for their field trip. Ropes Course is the latest trend, where you can take the kid to one of those centers where they will have to take part in different rope-based activities, like climbing the rope. 

Not just is it going to be a fun session, but they will learn some values like team coordination or team-building skills while crossing the obstacles together.

Apart from this, as these parks are mostly available in the middle of scenic areas, your students can enjoy nature, and learn about ecology.

There might be some bookworms in your class who will get excited by listening about the field visit to a well-known library, while some other students may find it a little boring. But trust me, this can be the perfect time to make those students realize how much fun reading could be. Reading skills are an essential part of a student’s life. 

If you want to enhance your students’ reading spirit, you can take them to the library and ask them to explore the library to find the genre that excites them the most. I am sure, at the end of this visit, almost all your students will be able to identify the domain they liked the most and will find a different point of view about books. 

Suppose you want your students to enjoy and relax for a while, in the beauty of nature. Then what else other than the park can be better for this. You can take them to some local or national parks, where you can organize some games for your students.

Try to include educational games in your list. It will become like a picnic for kids , where they can play along with their classmates and observe beautiful sights together. Wildlife sightseeing or flora exploration are the other things your students can perform in a park. 

If you plan to take your students out on a field trip and hear an educational movie released, you can take advantage of this opportunity to plan an exciting field trip for your students.

Students will get happy even after listening about a field trip to a theatre. Not just a movie, you can take them to some music show or art exhibition where your student can get encouragement and a path to explore their talent.

Botanical Garden

Field trips are one of the classic ways to take your kids out for a while , to give them a break from their regular classes and load of homework. Botanical Garden is the one place where you can take your students not just to enjoy the beauty of nature, but you can teach them science out there. 

All-in-all, it is going to be a fun session where your students can learn while enjoying it. On their trip to the botanical garden, you can organize some games or learn with fun activities for your toddler. 

Tips for Planning

Meet with parents.

The consent of parents is very crucial before taking their kids out of a field trip . Thus, after making a suitable plan for a field trip within your staff, you can organize a parent-teacher meeting to suggest your ideas for a field trip in front of your student’s parents. And they can either suggest you a better place or can help you get confirmation on your plan.

Again, as not everyone thinks the same, parents might conflict with one plan or another. Thus, follow the program on which most parents agree and try to bring all the parents on the same page. After getting confirmation from your students’ parents, you can decide on further factors like date, time, and execution of the plan.

Prepare for Everything

When you are going on a field trip with the whole class, you have all students’ responsibilities on your shoulder. In such a case, you can leave everything in the situation. There are a few things that you might need to prepare before the day of the field trip. Must keep the basic necessities like a first aid box, extra food, and attendance register with you all the time on the trip.

Try to prepare a plan before the trip and follow the same strictly so that you can do all the fun activities with your students without mixing everything up.

Do inform the park or theatre owner or any place you are visiting on the field trip to make appropriate preparation to welcome you all. 

Must remember bookings before going on the field trip. Properly instruct all the students and their parents to avoid any delay.

Field Trip Ideas for 5th Graders – Wrapping It Up

Field trips are more for learning with a fun session for your students. Every year, a field trip is the one thing that students await the most, and as a teacher, it is your responsibility to make a field trip a good experience for all the students.

As a start, you can pick a place that is not just exciting but educational as well. Then, preparing a proper plan is another crucial thing to follow, and in the end, the appropriate execution of the plan is most important.

You can choose the perfect place with the help of the ideas mentioned above. We have also added a few tips you can follow to make the field trip a huge success.

I hope you will organize an exciting and fantastic field trip where your students will learn and enjoy it a lot.

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Scroll down to the bottom of the page to the Learning Resources section and you’ll see the quiz file(s).

CAN I SHARE VIDEO LINKS WITH MY STUDENTS?

Yes. As a subscriber, you will find all of your video links on your Account page. You won’t be able to successfully share the URL’s from the video pages on the website. Those URL’s will end up showing an error message because they are behind the login wall.

WHAT MAKES OUR VIDEOS DIFFERENT?

Our videos are researched, written, and produced by educators for educators.  Teachers and instructional professionals are responsible for the production of each video and quiz.

Our videos are also different because they are closely aligned with the curriculum.  In particular the social studies, geography, life science, and ancient civilization curriculums.

Each video is professionally narrated by voice actors.  We hope you’ll agree that not many other “educational” videos can say the same.

ARE SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR A SCHOOL YEAR OR A CALENDAR YEAR?

Subscriptions run for a calendar year.  So, if someone subscribes on November 1st then the subscription runs until October 31st of the next year. They are not related to the school year.

WHAT DO I GET WITH MY SUBSCRIPTION?

Each subscription allows for unlimited video viewing and use of the quizzes.  In the case of an individual video subscription, that means unlimited viewing of the single video. A Teacher + Classroom subscription allows unlimited access to all videos on the website, as does a Schoolwide site license.

DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER RESOURCES?

What does teacher + classroom mean.

A Teacher + Classroom subscription means that the videos and video links can be shared by a teacher with all her/his students.

DO I NEED ANY SPECIAL SOFTWARE OR TECHNOLOGY TO WATCH YOUR VIDEOS?

All you need is a device and an internet connection together with the video links, or login information (user name and password).  The faster the internet connection, the better.

HOW CAN MY STUDENTS ACCESS THE VIDEOS?

Teachers share their video links with their students.  They can be copied into other platforms like Google Classroom. Video links can be found on your Account page (see link in Footer). Page URLs can’t be copied and pasted because they are behind the login wall.

ARE YOUR VIDEOS CLOSED CAPTIONED?

At this moment they are not closed-captioned. We do offer to provide transcripts of a video if that can be of help.  It is our intention to have all of our videos closed-captioned as soon as we can, since we appreciate how important this is.

CAN I DOWNLOAD THE VIDEOS?

No, you cannot.  The videos are our copyrighted content. Ours is a subscription-based website, which means you have unlimited access as long as the subscription is active.

HOW DO I CANCEL MY SUBSCRIPTION?

You can cancel your account at any time from your Account Page (see link in Footer area). After canceling, you’ll still be able to use your subscription until the expiry date. If it has already renewed you’ll need to contact us to make other arrangements.

• 5 Great Field Trip Ideas for 5th Graders

Fifth graders have an insane amount of energy and tend to have trouble sitting still during those big important lessons, but don't worry, getting them to turn their minds on doesn’t need to be a hassle!

Field trips are an exciting way to get them involved in their education and are great ways to keep the school year exciting and compelling.

Here are five educational, yet really thrilling, places to take your class!

Elementary-Students-Stockfresh-Public-Domain

• Located in Springfield, Massachusetts, Seymour Planetarium is one of the oldest operating planetariums in the United States. It can project more than 7,000 stars in varying brightnesses. Taking your class there would be a blast, and it would be educational! Teach the kids how to locate and identify celestial objects, planets, and constellations as the season’s change. This place is sure to wow any kid!
• Art teachers, are you trying to get your class to engage in the history of art? Bring them to the Denver Art Museum where they can participate in a number of activities! Their program  Animal Remix can make the children use their imagination by mixing and matching different parts of animals to create all new ones, or you can have them make a shadowbox show where the kids show off their favorite animals- or create new ones! The possibilities are endless at the Denver Art Museum!

Missouri Botanical Garden Credit Profreshionally Simple Photography

• Do you want to show your class how beautiful the natural world can be? A great place to take them would be the Missouri Botanical Garden in Saint Louis, MO. At the gardens, they can get hands-on experience and participate in loads of activities involving gardening and plants. Check out the Children’s Garden where the kids are free to explore, play and learn about different kinds of plants. Or you can take the kids to the Canopy Climb. There the kids are strapped into harnesses and taken to the very tops of the trees, where they learn good tree climbing techniques, balance, and how to stay safe, because, let’s face it, they’re never going to stop climbing!
• Trying to keep your class awake during science class? A great way for that would be to take them to the St. Louis Science Center. This center is a huge learning factory that will keep your kids engaged and curious about various things from the water on our earth to pretending to be a NASA engineer! Take them to the Discovery Room where they can see tiny details with a microscope, have them create constellations in the Star Room or perhaps go explore air movement in the Wind Tunnel. The possibilities are endless here!
• The ocean is a magical place, but sometimes kids don’t understand just how unique and beautiful it is simply because they can’t see or interact with it from the classroom. So why not show it to them? Take your class on a day trip to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, or spend the night! Yes, you read that right! Stay the night at the Shedd Aquarium complete with snacks, games and a tour of the facility. Have them go on scavenger hunts for the coolest, slimiest fish around! They can dip their hands into the stingray exhibit and feel just how silky smooth they are, or they can see how the sea lions are taken care of by their caretakers. There are tons of things to do, see and learn under the sea and it would be a great experience!

Check out our 10 Exciting Destinations for the 5th Graders blog as well!

Written by Danielle

View all posts by: Danielle

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School Trip Blog

5th grade field trip ideas.

School field trip is one of the most effective methods to educate students. This is highly beneficial for those who are 5th-grade students because they are curious and need to get a deeper understanding of new things and new experiences. It is true that planning a field trip for 5th graders is a tricky part for teachers. If you are setting up a trip, you should read useful recommendations following. With detailed planning and some key steps, you can ensure that your field trip will be enjoyable learning experiences for your students.

Best Places To Visit In Field Trips For 5th Grade Students

When it comes to the zoo, most students feel excited because they have a chance to see various animals.T hey get a deeper understanding of different species and learn the unique story about each animal as they walk around the zoo. Moreover, visiting a zoo helps students understand the importance of taking care of the environment as it has a vital impact on the lives of animals. As a result, they will raise awareness of protecting animals. It is definitely fun with diversity things to see and do. However, if you want to a great day for students, you should prepare essential things such as water, food, hats and even medical kit in the case of an emergency.

A museum is a must-see place in the field trip for 5th graders because it is an effective way to accumulate history subject and get a wealth of knowledge of sculpture from a young age. This is an excellent option for student groups with several learning opportunities, lessons, demonstrations, and hands-on exhibits. They can exchange their ideas and share new things with each other about artworks in the museums.

It is true that a trip to a local farm will be an excellent way to get your students outside and learning. Students can take a chance to explore agriculture and food production which is very significant aspects of science in the school systems. Students will be immersed in the hardworking and hands-on world of food and livestock production, both providing fantastic ways to teach students about biology, agriculture, and science. Moreover, students will have ample opportunity to explore the process of growing, packaging and transporting food. In addition, your students will be able to interact with farmers and even enjoy some fresh fruits or vegetables. Most importantly, visiting a farm is definitely fun for students after long days studying at school.

Sports & Games

When it comes to the library, it is an indispensable part of field trips. This is because taking children in the library help cognitive development of students. For 5th graders, the library will provide ample opportunity for them to foster literacy and improve academic performance. Most importantly, they get a deeper understanding of book genres and broaden their knowledge from a young age. Therefore, teachers should plan a schedule for students to check out the library in these field trips.

Park is another great place for 5th graders mostly because it offers fresh air and wide space. Visiting parks are the perfect opportunity to get outdoors, get active and get learning. Obviously, teachers can take advantage of time in the park to teach students wildlife observation, plant identification, and geological exploration. Most parks offer ample green spaces for picnics, science projects, and celebrations. It is a fantastic way for them to learn authentic things in real life and develop a sense of enjoyment.

Planetarium

A trip to the planetarium is one of the most educationally fun which inspire and educate people of all ages, This is particularly for those who are students and looking for amazing things surrounding the Earth. This is the easiest way to get students interested and involved in the science of the skies. Many students become enthused to follow a scientific career mostly because planetarium offers students ample opportunity to explore various informational exhibits and get hands-on learning activities about our surrounding space neighbors. As a result, this trip helps cognitive development of 5th graders. Obviously, it is a perfect combination of entertainment and education.

Field trips to the theatre provide a number of educational benefits to pupils. Putting a theater into your list of destination is an entertaining way to get your student involved in the arts. Your 5th graders will have ample opportunity to immerse themselves in live shows and musical performances. Students definitely have tons of fun watching after long days of studying. Most importantly, it would be for students to visit theaters which do wonder for those who are enthusiasts about music and art. Certainly, it boosts their passions from a young age and helps them later in life.

Some Tips To Plan 5th grade field trip

Organize a meeting with parents

It is extremely necessary for you to organize a parent meeting. Although 5th graders are not as young as kids, teachers should pay much attention to their students during their trips. This is the reason why they need to tell parents about their schedules and important information about a field trip. Most importantly, you may need to ask for parent volunteers to support this tour because this trip requires a lot of supervisors in order to handle the students.

Remind students for the trip

5th-grade students are not enough mature to control everything which they did. This is the reason why teachers should remind students about essential things. To be more precise, it is suggested that students do not bring any toys, video games or an MP3 player that could get lost. Moreover, if the trip is to an outdoor, make sure students know to dress appropriately. Regardless of location, students should wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Most importantly, you need to bring hats and umbrellas in the case of bad weather conditions.

Prepare for anything

If you expect a successful field trip, you should prepare carefully some essential items such as cameras, water, food, hats, transportations or accommodations. It would be better for you to organize and address all problems flexibly. This is particularly for some emergency situations. Therefore, thanks to your well- prepared, students may be having an incredible experience when discovering the new environment.

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Teaching with Jennifer Findley

Upper Elementary Teaching Blog

Field Trip Activities {Free Field Trip Resources}

I have a love/hate relationship with field trips. Some years they are great, and some I just want to sleep for twelve hours after the field trip and never speak of it again (surely I am not the only one, right?).

Field trips can fun and super educational, though. It is nice to take the students out into the “real world,” to expose them to new experiences, and teach them how to be respectful and show manners in a variety of settings. To be honest, I sometimes find it difficult to use a field trip experience to its full potential before and after the field trip (that pacing guide gets me every year). I recently put together some free field trip activities that can be used before and after a field trip and I wanted to share them with you today.

I always like to do a KWL activity about the topic or location of the field trip. A few years ago, we went to a Civil War Battlefield and completed a KWL before the trip. It was a great way to review what we had learned about the Civil War before the trip. The students also brainstormed specific things they wanted to learn about this specific battlefield location. This really helped with the participation during that part of the field trip.

Going over manners and expectation is so important for any field trip. Usually, I find myself giving a quick reminder speech before we get on the bus. However, I think this printable list of things for the students to remember is more efficient than that. Print it out the day before and go over it as a class. Then review it on the day of the field trip.

I also included a Field Trip Reminders printable because I have a hard time remembering to always tell my students to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, etc. Having this printable helps keep me organized as well.

This next field trip activity is perfect if you are going to a location with an updated website. Using this field trip research printable, have your students go on the website and do some research. This gets them excited about the field trip but also gives them knowledge to really get the most out of the trip.

After a field trip is over, I like to have my students take some time to reflect in writing about the trip. In this set of free field trip printables, I included a narrative prompt for them to describe their day and then a persuasive prompt for them to write about their opinion of the trip.

I also give my students some guidelines with this prompt, such as you must include 3 facts you learned about the topic, or you must describe 2 learning experiences you had. This keeps them from writing only about the “fun” part of the field trips, such as hanging out with their friends on the bus or eating at a park.

This is another pretty simple printable, but it gets the students reflecting on the trip and what they learned. This type of printable is perfect for homework the day of a field trip or to fill that 30 minutes to an hour you have left in the day if you took an almost all day trip. In fact, all these printable could probably fill up a day before and an after a field trip to really maximize on the learning that happened on the trip.

In addition to the printables shown, there is also a tri-fold printable and some templates for a class ABC book that could be completed after a field trip. Click on the image below to download these resources.

I hope these free field trip activities help you and your students get the most out of your field trips. Do you have any go-to activities you do before or after field trips? Let me know in the comments!

Share the Knowledge!

Reader interactions.

January 13, 2016 at 9:39 am

These are great printable for student field trip preparation! If you ever need field ideas for field trips in Georgia, check out http://www.classtrips.com/region-landing/2717/school-field-trips-in-georgia

January 13, 2016 at 12:25 pm

This is a great list, Dana! Thanks for sharing!

January 13, 2016 at 11:37 am

Awesome! This is one of those “why didn’t I think of that” moments. 🙂 Love it! Thanks for sharing!

January 13, 2016 at 2:26 pm

You are very welcome! I have those moments all the time!

January 16, 2016 at 8:42 am

This is perfect!! Thank you so much!

January 17, 2016 at 12:48 pm

You’re welcome! Thanks for stopping by!

February 1, 2017 at 11:25 pm

Hey there, Jennifer I loved this post on field trips. I usually get so caught up with planning the other logistics, I often forget or forfeit these helpful worksheets. And I have to say, I love your site, it’s very similar to mine since we both went with the Modern Blogger Pro design. How did you get yours so pretty?! It’s very nice. 🙂

September 11, 2020 at 7:11 am

Could you add some more detail? This is a very eloquent post nonetheless, so namaste!

https://besvelte.ru/user/JudsonRuggles94/

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Welcome Friends!

I’m Jennifer Findley: a teacher, mother, and avid reader. I believe that with the right resources, mindset, and strategies, all students can achieve at high levels and learn to love learning. My goal is to provide resources and strategies to inspire you and help make this belief a reality for your students.

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Home » Visit » School Field Trips » Virtual Learning Experiences: 5th-8th Grade

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Virtual Learning Experiences: 5th-8th Grade

• Virtual Learning Experiences: K-4th Grade
• Meet Our Virtual Experience Educator Team

PURCHASE TICKETS

Your all-access pass to our universe!

Learn from Adler experts wherever you are!

Adler’s virtual learning experiences bring the Adler experts to your students wherever you are around the world. No school bus or field trip permission slips required.

These experiences are unlike others out there. We have custom built a virtual reality environment that invites engagement with our educators and enables interactive discussions among classmates.

Virtual Experience Options

Sizing up our solar system.

Groups experience the size and scale of our solar system directly—by using an avatar to  “walk” around models of the planets, moons, and other solar system objects and noticing the differences between them. Being able to explore in three dimensions also creates opportunities for students to interact with each other more like they would in a physical space—they can have small group discussions, linger on items that interest them, and make discoveries with their friends. This experience is created with NGSS space science standards for middle school in mind, especially MS-ESS1-3 .

Climate Change & Me (coming soon!)

Climate change is something that affects us all; this experience is designed to engage students with the potential we have to positively address climate change. Students will explore different environments in small groups.  In each environment, students will be presented with a specific, past event caused by climate change. They will then be asked to consider a number of solutions, make a choice about how they would respond to the event, and then learn the outcome of their choices.  The session will include immersive NASA visualizations and interviews with scientists, engineers, and activists to understand the impact we can have. This virtual learning experience is made possible in part thanks to a grant from NASA.

These virtual learning experiences are designed for 5th–8th graders! Your group will have the virtual space (and the attention of our educators) all to yourselves as you learn and explore together in our unique VR-style environment. After you register, we will send you a teacher guide with all the information you’ll need, plus a student guide and extension activities for before and after the experience to help you make the most of this cosmic classroom getaway.

A sneak peek of these virtual experiences in our virtual environment is coming soon!

For K-4th grade students, the Adler is now offering guided tours of our virtual learning experiences through a video call. Head on over to this page for those details.

Here’s What Educators and Students Are Saying About Their Experience

 “I thought this was such a cool way to still experience the Adler Planetarium and gain information in a different format/platform. It really breaks up the monotony of the everyday schedule.”

“ We loved being able to “go up close” to the planets. I was amazed our field trip guide knew so much about every planet and moon!”

$200 per group (up to 35 participants)

Includes a 45–60 minute session plus a teacher guide, student guide, and extension activities for pre and post experience. 

Session Schedule

Sessions will begin October 3 and will run through May 24 on the following days/times. Check the calendar in the registration link for most up-to-date availability.

Tuesdays: 9:30, 11:00, and 1:30

Wednesdays: 9:30, 11:00, and 1:30

Fridays: 11:00 and 1:30

*All times listed are Central Time

If a time slot is not available when you go to select during checkout, then it has already been booked. 

Registration must be booked two weeks in advance to allow for coordination.  Please refer to our refund and cancellation policy in the FAQ section should you have related questions.

About the Adler’s Virtual Learning Experience Technology

The Adler’s v irtual learning experiences are conducted in Mozilla Hubs, a VR-style platform that is accessible through each participant’s web browser. You don’t need to download special software or acquire special equipment! You can use a desktop computer, laptop, Chromebook, tablet, or mobile devices. The experience runs best on laptop and desktop computers and in Chrome and Firefox browsers. More details here!

Safety/Security

Your group will access the experience via a private link, so you will have the virtual space all to yourselves! You and any other participating adults are asked to take the lead on group expectations and management while participating in the experience.

Adler is a Tier 1 Chicago Public School vendor . 

Technical Requirements

• The Adler’s virtual learning experiences are designed to work on a variety of devices, but desktop and laptop computers provide the best experience. 
• The registrant is also responsible for verifying with their organization’s IT representative that their internet connection is sufficient, both in bandwidth and in latency, to support their full group engaging in the session simultaneously. A minimum download bandwidth of 5Mbps per participant (ex- for 35 participants, 175Mbps) and a latency under 25ms are needed.
• The registrant is responsible for verifying that all participants’ devices are able to access the experience before booking. To test, please visit this public test demo room created by Mozilla and  this reticulum.io link . In the reticulum.io link , you should be able to view a video, but there is no sound.
• Firefox and Chrome browsers are strongly preferred.
• All registered participants should have access to an individual device to access the virtual learning experiences.

Who is the Audience for These Virtual Learning Experiences? 

Immersive virtual learning experiences  are designed and recommended for 5th–8th grade classes.

For younger students (K-4th), our educator guides your group through our Mozilla Hubs virtual environment and content on a video call. For more information and to book head over to this page.

Free Virtual Learning Experiences

The Adler Planetarium is pleased to offer free virtual learning experiences to any school where 51 percent or more of the student population comes from low-income households. There are a limited number of free field trips available and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. One free field trip per class, availability permitting. To apply for a free virtual learning experience please complete this form , and one of our educators will provide you with a code to input during registration.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Virtual learning experiences at the Adler are completely new, designed from the ground up with remote learners in mind. You and your students will visit a 3D immersive model of the Adler Planetarium’s beautiful exterior and surrounding grounds, a setting made for learning about our solar system and exploring planets like you’ve never seen them before! And, in our newest offering, you and your students will take a deep dive on the effects of climate change and the impact we can have to positively make a difference.

How much does it cost?

A virtual learning experience is $200 per session for classes up to 35 participants for our immersive-style sessions. Includes a 45–60 minute session plus a teacher guide, student guide, and extension activities for pre and post experience. 

What should I do to plan for the experience? Is it moderated or will I need to create my own lesson plan?

It is moderated live by an Adler educator. Meet them here ! During the virtual learning experience, teachers will be responsible for student management, but the experience will be led by Adler staff. Pre- and post-experience activities and a how-to guide are included. It will be important to prepare yourself and students using the how-to guide—this is a very different experience from the video chats everyone is used to!

Do students need to be all in the same place?

No! Thanks to the magic of the internet, students can join the experience from anywhere using a unique URL during your scheduled time period. See technology requirements below.

How long is each experience?

The immersive style sessions last from 45 to 60 minutes. If you have a time limitation, we can work with you! Let us know at [email protected] after booking.

What should I expect my students to learn during one of these experiences?

In the Sizing Up Our Solar System virtual experience, immersive session groups will experience the size and scale of our solar system directly—by using an avatar to “walk” around models of the planets, moons, and other solar system objects and noticing the differences between them. Being able to explore in three dimensions also creates opportunities for students to interact with each other more like they would in a physical space—they can have small group discussions, linger on items that interest them, and make discoveries with their friends. This experience is created with NGSS space science standards for middle school in mind, especially MS-ESS1-3 .

In Climate Change & Me, this virtual experience is designed to engage students with the potential we have to positively address climate change. Students will explore different environments in small groups. In each environment, students will be presented with a specific, past event caused by climate change. They will then be asked to consider a number of solutions, make a choice about how they would respond to the event, and then learn the outcome of their choices. The session will include immersive NASA visualizations and interviews with scientists, engineers, and activists to understand the impact we can have.

What age range or grade level is this appropriate for?

Our immersive style sessions are designed for 5th-8th grade students, while our video call style sessions are for K-4th grade students.

We look forward to creating more virtual learning experiences for a wider range of students. If you would like to help Adler as we develop programming and resources for teachers and students, please join the Teacher Evaluator Group !

How can I schedule one of these virtual learning experiences?

Click on this registration form to book!

What happens after I register?

You’ll receive an email confirming the date and time of your booking as well as pre- and post-experience activities and a how-to guide.

It will be important to prepare yourself and students using the how-to guide—this is a very different experience from the video chats everyone is used to!

I’m not in the Chicago area, can I still schedule a virtual learning experience?

Yes! While the Adler’s primary educational audience continues to be Chicago-area schools, a completely online experience means your class can attend from anywhere.

Are there accessibility options?

Because Mozilla Hubs is a new application, accessibility features are not yet available to us. Please email us at [email protected] with your specific needs so we can talk further.

What is the capacity?

For the best experience with our immersive style virtual learning sessions, we recommend a cohort of around 25-30 people. We’ve found that video and audio quality are significantly affected when there are between 30–35 people in the space. If your class is on the large side, we encourage you to consider booking two sessions.

What is your rescheduling and cancellation policy?

The registrant is responsible for verifying that all participants’ devices are able to access the experience before booking. To test, please visit hubs.mozilla.com and this reticulum.io link . In the reticulum.io link, you should be able to view a video, but there is no sound.

The registrant is also responsible for verifying with their organization’s IT representative that their internet connection is sufficient, both in bandwidth and in latency, to support their full group engaging in the session simultaneously. Blocked access or insufficient internet connection do not qualify the registrant for a refund or a reschedule, should they prevent the session from occurring. Please note: Adler’s virtual learning experiences use Mozilla Hubs, a new, still developing, open source platform. Our team will work to adapt and troubleshoot unforeseeable technology challenges if they occur during a session to provide the best experience possible. In case of sound impacts, the Educator will continue the experience via the chat function with continued student participation. Outages are uncommon but possible. If an outage prevents a session from happening, Adler will work with the registrant to reschedule.

Terms of the  Teacher Acknowledgement Form  also apply.

Can I schedule an in-person field trip?

For more information about our in-person field trip options, please  click here .

What payment types do you accept?

At this time, we accept credit card payments only.

What other resources are available for educators like me?

We love to support educators however we can. Visit our  educator hub for space resources to help supplement your classroom curriculum.

Still have questions? Contact us!

Feel free to email us at [email protected] . We will do our best to reply to you within 3 business days.

Thanks To Our Sponsors

The Adler Planetarium is grateful to the following donors for supporting virtual learning experiences: 

Discover Financial Services, Inc. Knowles Foundation A. Montgomery Ward Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee

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The 5th grade field trip includes many opportunities for social-emotional and intellectual growth. Those include:

Hands-on science lessons, archery or swimming, team building, ecosystems and night hikes, campfire w/ s'mores, nighttime hayride, kitchen patrol, flex-time (recess), an ice cream social, click the next tab to see the 5th grade trip schedule..

This is a typical schedule for a 5th grade trip (activities are subject to change based on the needs of each group):

Wednesday 8:15          Pick-up Students at School 10:00         Arrive -- Orientation with Staff, Move into Cabins 12:00         LUNCH 1:15            Activity #1 2:30          Activity #2 3:45          SNACK 4:15           Activity #3 5:45           DINNER 7:30           Campfire/Night Hikes/Hayride

Thursday 7:00           wake up 7:30           breakfast 8:45           cabin inspection 9:00           morning activities: ecosystems hike or lake investigation 12:00         lunch 1:15           activity #4 2:30           activity #5 3:45           snack 4:15           activity #6 5:45           dinner 7:30           ice cream social, friday 7:00         wake up 7:30        breakfast 8:45         cabin inspection 9:00         morning activities: ecosystems hike or lake investigation 11:15       lunch 12:15       leave for school.

The typical menu for the 5th grade trip is as follows:

Lunch – Day 1 Breaded Chicken Sandwich on a bun

Lettuce & Pickles

Sweet Potato Puffs

Ketchup/Mustard

Fresh Fruit

Dinner – Day 1 Spaghetti w/ Meatballs and Marinara Sauce

Savory Green Beans

Breakfast – Day 2 French Toast Sticks

Hard Boiled Egg

Milk/Juice/Water

Lunch – Day 2 Cheeseburger on a bun

Lettuce & tomato

Spiral Fries

Fresh fruit Milk/Water

Dinner – Day 2 Oven baked chicken

Mashed Potato w/ gravy

Seasoned Broccoli

Breakfast – Day 3 Turkey Sausage

Lunch – Day 3 Pizza (Cheese or Pepperoni)

Veggie Dippers w/ Ranch

Frozen Berry Cup

Vegetarian options for lunch and dinner include: grilled cheese, black bean burgers, veggie burgers and PB&J.

Please note that this menu is an example and is subject to change without notice.

If your child is attending the fifth grade trip and they have dietary restrictions or food allergies please let both your child’s teacher and Camp Crystal Lake know prior to the first day of your child’s trip to camp. Most restrictions can be accommodated with a little support from home.

Welcome 5th grade teachers, parents, and students. We are looking forward to your field trip and hope the information below will help you prepare for your three days at camp. More information for teachers and parents, including a packing list, can be found in the 5th grade forms .