Brookfield Zoo, located just outside of Chicago, offers a wealth of engaging field trip activities for students of all ages. From self-guided explorations to interactive learning resources, the zoo provides a dynamic and educational experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the natural world.

Self-Guided Field Trips

Brookfield Zoo’s self-guided field trips are a popular option for schools and educational groups. These field trips are available on weekdays between Labor Day and Memorial Day, excluding certain dates. To qualify, groups must have a minimum of 10 students and can include public, private, home school, and Head Start programs. Adult chaperones are also admitted free with a reservation.

During a self-guided field trip, students can explore the zoo at their own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of the various animal exhibits. The zoo provides downloadable activity sheets that can be used to guide the students’ exploration and enhance their learning experience.

Activity Sheets

Brookfield Zoo’s activity sheets are designed to engage students of all grade levels, from pre-K to 12th grade. These resources cover a wide range of subjects, including science, math, language arts, and social studies, and are aligned with curriculum standards. Teachers can download these activity sheets, including the “What to Do at Brookfield Zoo” guide, which provides questions and activities to keep students engaged and focused during their visit.

Teacher Preparation

Brookfield Zoo recognizes the importance of supporting teachers in their efforts to provide meaningful and enriching field trip experiences for their students. The zoo offers professional learning programs and resources for K-12 educators, including online and onsite teacher classes, to help them incorporate conservation leadership and inquiry-based learning into their teaching.

Additionally, teachers can register for a free, one-hour online Field Trip Enrichment session, where they can learn strategies and receive downloadable student activities to enhance the field trip experience.

Additional Resources

Brookfield Zoo provides a range of resources to extend learning and enhance the zoo visit. These include educational videos, downloadable content, and other materials that can be used before, during, and after the field trip. By utilizing these resources, teachers can better prepare their students and ensure that the field trip experience is both engaging and educational.

Code of Conduct

When reserving a self-guided field trip, groups agree to Brookfield Zoo’s code of conduct. This ensures that all visitors, including students and chaperones, respect the animals, the environment, and the other guests during their visit.

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding Brookfield Zoo field trips, teachers can contact the zoo at [email protected].

Key Dates

Registration for self-guided field trips typically opens in mid-August for the upcoming school year. It’s important for teachers to plan ahead and reserve their field trip dates as early as possible, as spots can fill up quickly.

By offering a variety of engaging field trip activities and resources, Brookfield Zoo provides an exceptional learning experience for students of all ages. Whether exploring the zoo on a self-guided tour, completing interactive activity sheets, or taking advantage of the zoo’s professional learning opportunities, visitors can deepen their understanding and appreciation for the natural world.

References:
– Brookfield Zoo. (n.d.). Eligible School Groups. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Brookfield-Zoo/Education-Community-Engagement/Professional-Learning-K-12-Academics/Field-Trips/Eligible-School-Groups
– Brookfield Zoo. (n.d.). Activity Sheets. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Brookfield-Zoo/Archive-Education/School-Group-Teacher-Programs/Activity-Sheets
– Brookfield Zoo. (n.d.). Self-Guided Field Trips. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/FieldTrips
– Brookfield Zoo. (n.d.). Educator Resources. Retrieved from https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/EdResources
– Brookfield Zoo. (2012). What to Do at Brookfield Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.czs.org/custom.czs/media/Centers-CLC/Teachers/Teacher-Letter.pdf