ABOUT OUR FIELD TRIPS

THE EXPERIENCE

Students work in small groups to make observations, collect data, compare and classify organisms, and draw conclusions. 

Each field trip to NCMNS Contentnea Creek includes an outdoor and indoor experience. During the outdoor experience students will explore several distinct habitats including streams, forests, swamps and ponds. The indoor experience will take your students into the planetarium where they will learn about the daily/annual motion, the lunar cycle, the solar system, or how we experience weather.

NCMNS Greenville features many interactive exhibits- field trips can include time to explore the museum. Students will be led through programs in the Naturallist Center, the Astronomy Lab, the Underwater Exploration area, and investigate the various table-top activities offered by the museum. 

ON ARRIVAL

Upon arrival you will be greeted by a staff member and given the itinerary for the day. Payment will be collected from the field trip organizer and any additional partners/chaperones at this time. Students will be broken up into their groups and then formally greeted by staff before breaking out into their first activity. Lunches will be collected and transported to and from the picnic area by NCMNS staff.

THE WEATHER

Students and all accompanying adults should dress according to the weather. NCMNS Contentnea Creek field trips are mainly an outdoor experience, and while we may shorten outdoor portions of a program according to the weather, we will be outside unless the weather is severe. Please pay close attention to the forecast in the days before your trip and encourage everyone to dress appropriately for those conditions.

TO BRING OR NOT TO BRING

It is recommended that all participants wear comfortable, closed toe shoes (no sandals or heels). Sunscreen and bug repellent are recommended especially for spring and summer trips. It is recommended for participants who are kayaking to bring a towel and a change of clothes. 

Student backpacks are not allowed on the field trips. Adult chaperones may carry backpacks as necessary. Student cell phones and electronics are not allowed on field trips. Please also refrain from bringing toys, stuffed animals, or other distractions.

BEHAVIOR

Encouraging your students’ respect for all staff, property, and visitors. Groups who exhibit overly disruptive or destructive behavior will not be tolerated. Teachers and chaperones are responsible for the conduct of their groups. Students must be under direct adult supervision at all times. Teachers and chaperones should also respect staff when they are leading their lessons by paying attention and staying quiet, to not disctract the students.

LUNCH

If you are planning to have a picnic lunch with us, prior to leaving school please place all lunches in large cardboard boxes or coolers in order for our personnel to transport them to the picnic area for you.