The Atlanta Botanical Garden offers an enriching educational experience for students of all ages. With its diverse plant collections, interactive exhibits, and tailored programs, a field trip to this urban oasis provides hands-on learning opportunities aligned with Georgia’s educational standards. From guided tours to self-directed explorations, the garden caters to various group sizes and interests, making it an ideal destination for schools seeking to enhance their science and nature curricula.
What Are the Key Requirements for Organizing a Field Trip?
Organizing a successful field trip to the Atlanta Botanical Garden requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines:
- Group Size and Chaperone Ratio
- Minimum group size: 10 students
- Maximum group size for guided tours: 50 students
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Chaperone requirement: 1 adult per 8 students
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Advance Scheduling
- Guided tours: Book at least 4 weeks in advance
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Self-guided visits: Schedule 2 weeks prior
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Documentation
- Complete the School Group Scheduling Form
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Review School Group Guidelines
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Pre-Visit Preparation
- Ensure student supervision
- Familiarize with Garden rules
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Plan for meals (no outside food allowed in the Garden)
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Payment Options
- Advance payment via phone
- On-site payment at check-in
- Accepted methods: Check, Visa, American Express, Mastercard, Discover (No cash)
How Can Schools Benefit from Group Discounts?
The Atlanta Botanical Garden offers special rates for student groups:
- Title I Schools
- Free entry
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30-minute instructor-led activity included
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General Student Groups
- $8 per student
- Free admission for 1 chaperone per 8 students
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Additional chaperones charged at student rate
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Minimum Group Size
- 10 students required for all group visits
What Educational Tour Options Are Available?
The garden provides various tour options to suit different educational needs:
- Guided Tours
- Led by knowledgeable docents
- Aligned with Georgia Standards of Excellence
- Available August – May, Tuesday – Friday at 10 a.m.
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Duration: 1 to 1¼ hours
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Self-Guided Visits
- Flexible exploration with downloadable Garden Guides
- Available Tuesday – Friday at 9:30, 10:30, or 11:30 a.m.
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Pre- and post-visit activities provided
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Interactive Components
- Hands-on activities on topics like seeds, leaves, bees, and carnivorous plants
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Virtual tour options available
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Curriculum Alignment
- All programs designed to meet Georgia Standards of Excellence
How to Make the Most of a Self-Guided Tour?
To maximize the educational value of a self-guided tour:
- Use Grade-Specific Garden Guides
- Download and utilize guides tailored to each grade level
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Engage in onsite activities and scavenger hunts
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Explore Key Exhibits
- Visit the outdoor gardens and Fuqua Conservatory
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Focus on areas relevant to your curriculum
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Logistical Planning
- Schedule at least two weeks in advance
- Plan assembly times before and after the visit
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Ensure adequate supervision throughout
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Enhance Learning with Additional Activities
- Participate in the Budburst program at the Gainesville location
- Incorporate activities like “Sensational Senses” and “Fabulous Flowers”
What Are the Best Practices for a Successful Field Trip?
To ensure a smooth and educational experience:
- Pre-Visit Preparation
- Brief students on Garden rules and expectations
- Assign specific roles to chaperones
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Prepare relevant worksheets or activities
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During the Visit
- Encourage active observation and note-taking
- Facilitate group discussions at key exhibits
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Allow time for reflection and questions
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Post-Visit Activities
- Conduct follow-up discussions or projects
- Relate garden experiences to classroom lessons
- Encourage students to share their favorite parts of the trip
How Does the Garden Support Different Learning Styles?
The Atlanta Botanical Garden caters to various learning styles through:
- Visual Learners
- Colorful plant displays
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Informative signage and exhibits
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Auditory Learners
- Guided tours with expert commentary
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Interactive presentations and discussions
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Kinesthetic Learners
- Hands-on activities and experiments
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Sensory gardens and touch-friendly exhibits
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Naturalistic Learners
- Direct interaction with plants and ecosystems
- Opportunities for nature observation and classification
What Safety Measures Should Be Considered?
Ensuring student safety is paramount during a field trip:
- Health Considerations
- Be aware of any student allergies or medical conditions
- Bring first-aid supplies
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Stay hydrated, especially in warm weather
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Group Management
- Implement a buddy system
- Establish clear meeting points and times
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Provide identifiable markers (e.g., colored t-shirts) for easy group recognition
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Emergency Procedures
- Familiarize chaperones with Garden emergency protocols
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Carry a list of emergency contacts for all students
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Weather Preparedness
- Check weather forecasts in advance
- Advise appropriate clothing and sun protection
By following these guidelines and leveraging the diverse offerings of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, educators can create a memorable and educational field trip experience that aligns with curriculum goals and fosters a deeper appreciation for nature and science.
References:
1. https://atlantabg.org/school-tours/
2. https://atlantabg.org/self-guided-school-tours/
3. https://atlantabg.org/title-i-outreach-programs/