CIS Field Trip | Elementary Learning Recap: Exploration and Discovery in Museums and Nature
This week, CIS Primary School students set off on an engaging, hands-on learning journey.
Lower-grade students explored history and culture at the Guangdong Museum, while upper-grade students observed the wonders of nature at the Chimelong Safari Park. Through continuous exploration and discovery, learning quietly unfolded.
G1–G2 | Guangdong Museum
Getting Close to History
Through Inquiry
Grade 1 Class A students displayed strong curiosity as they explored the museum’s rich exhibitions. From crystals to cultural artifacts from China and around the world, each display sparked observations, questions, and discussions.
Through exploring and talking with peers, the students not only broadened their perspectives but also developed a sense of inquiry and good learning habits.
Teacher’s Perspective:
Insights from Ms.Jacqueline
" Exploring History and Wonder at the Canton Museum!
What an incredible adventure our Grade 1A students had on their recent field trip to the Canton Museum! It was a day brimming with discovery, curiosity, and awe as we journeyed through various fascinating exhibits, truly bringing our Unit of Inquiry on Culture to life.
Our young explorers were captivated by the dazzling beauty of different crystal stones, marveling at their unique formations and vibrant colors. We then took a step back in time, immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of Chinese culture. Students observed intricate old sewing tools and kits, admired a historical teapot, and explored exquisite paintings and carvings from various dynasties. This offered a wonderful glimpse into ancient traditions and artistic expressions.
We also ventured into the world of European culture, admiring grand historical wardrobes, ornate mirrors, and elegant vases, which sparked discussions about different ways of life across the globe.
However, the absolute highlight for many of our budding paleontologists was undoubtedly the Dinosaur part of the museum! Their eyes lit up with excitement as they stood before the colossal skeletons of dinosaurs and other ancient mammals. This unforgettable experience sparked immense wonder and countless questions, proving to be a true highlight of our cultural and historical exploration!
The students demonstrated fantastic inquiry skills and respectful behavior throughout the trip. We are so proud of their curiosity and enthusiasm, and the connections they made between past cultures and the natural world."
In the dinosaur and gemstone exhibition, Grade 1 Class B students combined careful observation with personal experience, actively sharing discoveries and points of interest.
Through communication and expression, they continuously connected with new knowledge, making learning come alive in real-world contexts.
Teacher’s Perspective:
Insights from Ms.Kyla
"Our Grade 1 class had a wonderful time visiting the Canton Museum in Guangzhou! It was such an exciting day filled with curiosity, exploration, and lots of hands-on learning. The students were eager to explore each exhibit and fully immersed themselves in the experience from start to finish.
One of the biggest highlights for many students was the dinosaur exhibit. Linn shared that “an interesting part was the dinosaur with a superduper long neck,” which immediately became a favourite moment for the class. The size and details of the dinosaur really sparked their imagination and excitement. Johanna was especially fascinated by the gems and said she loved “all the different kinds of diamonds,” taking time to look closely at the displays and share what she noticed.
Throughout the museum, students asked thoughtful questions and made meaningful connections to what they saw. They showed great excitement when discovering new facts and enjoyed learning outside of the classroom in a real-world setting.
Overall, it was a memorable and engaging experience for everyone. We are so proud of how curious, respectful, and enthusiastic the students were throughout the trip!
In the diverse historical exhibitions, Grade 2 students deepened their understanding through self-directed learning, gradually building their knowledge of history.
While creating dinosaur models, they combined knowledge with imagination, extending their learning through hands-on practice.
Teacher’s Perspective:
Insights from Ms.Aliya
"Our Grade 2 students had an exciting and engaging experience during their visit to the museum. They explored a variety of artifacts, ranging from ancient tools to historical objects, which helped bring the past to life in a meaningful way. Using headphone listening devices, students were able to independently follow along with guided explanations, deepening their understanding of the exhibits and allowing them to learn at their own pace. A highlight of the trip was the hands-on activity where students designed and built their own dinosaurs. This creative experience allowed them to apply what they had learned about prehistoric life while expressing their own imagination. Overall, the trip was both educational and memorable!"
G3–G5 | Chimelong Safari Park
Stepping into Nature’s
Real Classroom
Through interactions with animals from around the world, Grade 3 students gradually understood the survival strategies of different species and began to develop an awareness of the relationship between humans and nature.
Centered on the inquiry theme “Who Are We?”, they reflected on topics ranging from endangered species conservation to cultural understanding, deepening their sense of responsibility and broadening their global perspective through real-world experiences.
Teacher’s Perspective:
Insights from Ms.Marli
"During our recent trip to Chimelong Zoo, the students had a wonderful time exploring animals from different parts of the world and learning more about what they eat and the habitats they live in. This connected nicely to our Science learning about habitats, as the children were able to see real examples of how animals depend on their environments to survive. They especially enjoyed watching the tigers jumping and moving around, which also led to conversations about endangered animals and why it is important to protect them. The visit to see the pandas was another highlight, and it helped students make meaningful connections to Chinese culture. These experiences supported our current Unit of Inquiry under the transdisciplinary theme Who We Are, as students reflected on how humans and animals are connected and how we can care for the world around us. Most importantly, the children had a lot of fun while learning through these exciting real-life experiences!"
During the diverse visits, Grade 4 students observed a wide variety of animals up close, from the safari drive zones to aerial cable car perspectives, experiencing the richness and diversity of natural ecosystems.
These different modes of observation also gave them a more vivid and deeper understanding of the animal world.
Teacher’s Perspective:
Insights from Mr.Anton
"Our recent field trip to Chimelong Safari Park in Panyu, Guangzhou was an exciting and memorable experience for all the students. From the moment we arrived, there was a sense of curiosity and excitement in the air.
One of the highlights of the day was the drive-through safari, where students had the opportunity to see animals from different countries in spacious, natural-looking environments. They were especially thrilled to see elephants, lions, and tigers up close. Allowing students to get an even closer view of giraffes and zebras, which came right up near the train.
The tiger show was a big hit, as students watched in amazement while the tigers jumped, performed, and enjoyed their meal. It was both entertaining and educational, giving students a deeper appreciation for these powerful animals.
To end the day, we took a cable car ride over the park, which gave everyone a unique bird’s-eye view of the animals and the beautiful surroundings. It was a fun and relaxing way to finish our adventure.
Overall, the trip was filled with joy, learning, and unforgettable moments that the students will remember for a long time."
Through diverse observations and comparisons, Grade 5 students went beyond simply learning about individual animals and began to focus on species differences and ecological relationships, gradually forming a more systematic understanding.
By connecting real-world experiences with prior knowledge, their understanding of animal behavior and habitats also became more in-depth.
Teacher’s Perspective:
Insights from Mr.Nolan
"Our class had a wonderful experience visiting Chimelong Safari Park this week. The highlight for many students was the “safari on wheels,” where they were able to observe a wide variety of animals up close, including kangaroos, emus, bears, white tigers, elephants, giraffes, and even a white rhino. Students were especially excited by how freely the animals moved in their environments and enjoyed spotting different species along the route. After the safari, we explored the koala and panda exhibits on foot, which gave students a chance to slow down, observe more carefully, and learn about these unique animals and their habitats. Throughout the trip, students practiced observation skills, asked thoughtful questions, and made connections to what we have been learning in class. After lunch, they enjoyed some time to relax and have fun on a ride before ending the day with a cable car trip back to the bus, which offered a great view of the park from above. Overall, it was a fun and meaningful learning experience for everyone."
Through observation, hands-on activities, expression, and collaboration, students broadened their horizons and experienced the joy and meaning of learning in real-world contexts.
At CIS, our learning journeys encourage students to expand their horizons through observation, hands-on practice, and meaningful interaction, while experiencing the joy and significance of learning in real-world contexts.
When learning steps out of the classroom and into the real world, curiosity, exploration, and confidence naturally flourish.
Join CIS and let your child embark on a deeper and broader learning experience!
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