2.  Consider the possible locations, how long it takes to get there, how many students will go at a time, how long you want the students to be in the field, how many times will they visit the location, if all classes will use the same location.

3.  Consider supplies on hand, funds available, etc.

4.  Narrow the project down to a specific location and specific goals...What do you want the students to learn/get out of the project?

5.  Determine how you will prepare the students...background knowledge, practice of necessary skills, etc. Also, develop the follow-up activities.  Try to think of your project in phases:  Preparation, Adventure, Lab, and Publication.

6.  Develop a working schedule for planning and for student activities.  Be sure to look at the building calendar and avoid conflict with other activities.  Order your bus.  Be sure that your schedule and your bus request includes an alternative date for a "rain out" of your field day.

7.  If you are going to need adult help...get the word out.  Letters home for parent volunteers, email/call local experts...university faculty, MDC, DNR, etc.

8.  Supplies...Do you already have them? Can you make them?  Who could help you make them...students, parents, etc.?  If you need funds...are there organizations or businesses in town that sponsor small grants to educators...Optimists, WalMart, etc.?

9.  Does your school have blanket permission forms signed at first of year for walking field trips? ...for image use?  If yes, did all parents sign?  Determine if you need more specific permission and develop forms to send home.

10.  Inform building personnel as needed.  The nurse will need a list of students, to insure that you have any necessary meds with you.  If students will miss lunch or need to eat at a different time...the kitchen will need to plan accordingly.  Are your students going to need print material or computer access for pre- or post research?  Be sure to ask your librarian to help.  (Mine often volunteers to also access the local public library for materials! ...Be sure to keep a list of items used for future year's use.) If your plans will affect attendance in other classes...inform your peers.  (It is assumed that you are conversing with administration throughout the planning stage.)

11.  Create a list of tasks (based on your goals and the available supplies) that provides something for each student to do.

12.  Send adult volunteers a follow-up message that confirms their attendance and gives them more details on your expectations of them.

13.  Contact local media if you wish for your project to get more attention.  Students and parents love to see themselves in print!

14.  Maintain lists and files for use in future years...and be prepared to revise!

15.  Confirm your bus request a day or two prior to the trip.