Explore Participatory Science Field Trip Programs (Pre-K to Grade 12)

Provide your students the opportunity to participate in hands-on immersive science experiments and field excursions. Listed by recommended age range. Year-round unless otherwise noted. 

The Pond and Beyond

Dive into pond and stream ecology as we splash around in search of macroinvertebrates, amphibians, fish, aquatic plants, and more! Students will use dip nests, magnifying glasses, and sorting charts to investigate the living things that we find. Recommended for Grades 1-5 (Late March – Early October).

Freshwater Ecology

Students will learn about the ecology of ponds, streams, and vernal pools. They will also have the opportunity to use nets and other collecting tools. We’ll sample for macroinvertebrates, amphibians, and other species while investigating the physical and chemical properties of these important habitats. Recommended for Grades 6-12 (Late March – Early October).

Controlling Invasive Species

Dive deep into the Norman Bird Sanctuary trail network in this interactive field program. Students will discover invasive and native plant species, learn about land management, and discover the critical role invasive species removal plays in conservation efforts. Recommended for Grades 6-12.

Oceans and Tides: Where Sea Creatures Reside

In this marine science program, students can expect to explore our Coastal Education Center at Third Beach; waterproof gear is recommended but not required. This field trip involves catching marine life, lessons in oceanography and learning about the ecosystems that form on the edge of our ocean! Recommended for all ages (May-June AND September-October). 

Explore Guided Hike Field Trip Programs (Pre-K to Grade 12)

Explore the Sanctuary’s 7-mile trail network with a guided hike led by a Teacher Naturalist who will help connect your classroom learning to our sanctuary. Add a hawk talk to your hike for an opportunity to meet an animal up-close and learn about their history and role in nature. Listed by recommended age range. Year-round unless otherwise noted. 

Early Education

  • What’s in your Garden?
    Compare and contrast plants and learn what they need to survive. 
  • All About Birds
    From their behavior to what allows them to fly, this crash course in everything birds is sure to spark curiosity.
  • Busy Bugs
    Discover why insects are important for a healthy ecosystem and what we can do to protect them in the wild.

 

Elementary

  • Go Wild for Herptiles
    This guided hike focuses on the slimy and scaly wildlife found at the Norman Bird Sanctuary.
  • Exploring Ecosystems
    Learn how plants and animals interact with each other in order to survive.

Middle School

  • Geology Rocks
    Dig deep into how rocks formed at the Norman Bird Sanctuary and develop skills for critically observing rocks.
  • Exploring Ecosystems
    Learn how plants and animals interact with each other in order to survive.
  • Species Invasion!
    Students get up close and personal with invasive species found on our property and learn about the impacts they have on native species.

 

High School

  • Introduction to Conservation Land Management
    Discover what is required from our team at the Norman Bird Sanctuary to ensure we have a healthy and thriving ecosystem. Learn what a career in conservation land management looks like and what paths can be taken to join this field.
  • Controlling Invasive Species
    Students learn how the Norman Bird Sanctuary manages invasive species and what impact they have on the native plants on Aquidneck Island.

 

Field Trip Pricing

Program Fee

$10 per student

*Required Chaperone Ratio

1 Free Adult: 8 Kids

Extra Chaperone Fee

$5 per Additional Adult Chaperone