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Field Trip Topics & More

Field Trip Topics

2nd Grade: Insects

Students will learn about insect anatomy, build their own bug, discover how insects communicate through pheromones, and sweep net for insects in our meadow. They'll also meet our animal ambassadors, hold a Madagascar hissing cockroach, and build a LEGO habitat for it.

3rd Grade: Ecosystems

Students will explore Fair Hill's four ecosystems: forest, stream, meadow, and pond. They'll dip net in the stream, sweep net for insects, build an animal habitat, and hike through the forest while learning about habitats, food webs, and the plants and animals that live in each ecosystem.

4th Grade: Soil Science

Students will explore soil conservation on our longest hike along Big Elk Creek. They'll collect soil samples, examine the different soil layers, and discover how weathering, erosion, and deposition shape the landscape.

5th Grade: Water Quality

Students will learn about the Chesapeake Bay watershed while investigating the health of our stream. They'll dip net for aquatic life, test the water's pH, and examine water samples under a microscope to explore indicators of water quality.

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Logistics

Field trips run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., including a 30-minute lunch from 12:30 to 1:00 p.m.

Please arrive at 9:45 a.m. to organize students into prearranged groups and review the field trip expectations.

Please have students arrive wearing name tags.

If students require accommodations, contact us in advance at 410-398-4909 or info@fairhillnature.org.

Address: 630 Tawes Dr., Elkton, MD 21921

Rules

  • Nature Center staff will lead each group throughout the field trip. Teachers and chaperones should remain at the back of the line when transitioning stations and on the hike.

  • Teachers and chaperones must stay with their group at all times, and cell phones should remain put away unless needed for an emergency.

  • Please follow Leave No Trace principles by leaving nature the way you found it. Please stay on the trails and do not touch plants or wildlife.

  • Our trails are shared with the public. Please be respectful of hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, dog walkers, and wildlife.

  • Please notify Nature Center staff of any accommodations, medical needs, or allergies. Teachers should keep student medications with them at all times, and accessible to the student.

  • Nature Center staff carry first-aid kits, but teachers are responsible for administering first aid to their students.

 

Reminders

  • We will be outside rain or shine. Please dress for the weather in clothes that can get dirty or wet and wear appropriate footwear. In the event of severe weather, the field trip will be rescheduled.

  • Bug spray and sunscreen are recommended. We also encourage participants to check for ticks after the field trip.

  • Please bring at least one teacher or chaperone per group.

  • Students should bring a water bottle and lunch. Water refill stations are available.

  • Please bring a few trash bags to take your group's trash with you, as the park follows a carry-in, carry-out policy.

  • Nature Center staff will greet you at the buses in the far side of the parking lot.

  • If you have any questions or concerns, please call 410-398-4909 or email info@fairhillnature.org in advance.

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