Lab Field Trips

  • All
  • Grades 3–8
  • High School
  • Laboratory Field Trips Info

Chemistry: The Dyes We Digest

In this lab, students will: Collect quantitative data using a spectrophotometer. Prepare dilutions using micropipettes. Determine the wavelength of maximum absorbance for a specific dye. Determine solution concentrations. Analyze data by constructing graphs. Apply data and graphs to find an unknown value. Calculate the concentration of food dye in sports drink using Beer’s Law (AP,…

Biology: DNA Fingerprinting and Crime Scene

In this lab, students will: Explore DNA’s structure, role, and relationship to proteins. Set up a restriction digest of DNA from a “crime scene.” Compare suspect DNA to crime scene DNA by performing gel electrophoresis. Explore how genetic signatures are used in forensics and other applications.

Biology: Bacterial Transformation

In this lab, students will: Transform bacteria using a plasmid containing a jellyfish gene. Discover how bacteria transfer genetic material. Predict results of transformation under specific conditions. Discuss how and why genes are regulated. Compare predictions to observations of non-transformed and transformed bacteria. Learn about plasmids and how bacteria transfer genetic material.

Biology: Mapping Plasmids Using Restriction Enzymes

In this lab, students will: Explore the structure and role of DNA Discover the origins and uses of restriction endonucleases (enzymes) Prepare restriction digests Analyze digested DNA fragments using gel electrophoresis Apply data to construct and verify plasmid maps

Third grade: The Amazing Life of Honey Bees

In this lab, students will: Discuss Honey bees and their role in pollination Explore the honey bee life cycle Observe dead honey bees using a microscope

Fourth grade: Light and Color

In this lab, students will: Learn about the electromagnetic spectrum and how we see color Explore light, color, and diffraction by building a spectroscope Design and build a kaleidoscope Investigating how light can play tricks on our eyes

Fifth grade: Mystery of the Dead Hemlock Tree

In this lab, students will: Create a mixture and make observations about its properties as its state of matter changes Learn techniques to micropipette and measure small quantities of liquids Discover and identify elements in the hemlock ecosystem, including the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere Perform gel electrophoresis to compare DNA from known pests to…

Sixth grade: Effect of Chemicals on Plant Cells

In this lab, students will: Learn about the electromagnetic spectrum and how we see color Discover how a spectrophotometer detects absorbance of light Discuss parts of the plant cell, including the function of the vacuole Analyze data by constructing graphs Form a conclusion based on experimental results Build a model cell using dialysis tubing Explore…

Seventh grade: Mystery of the Dead Hemlock Tree

In this lab, students will: Create a mixture and make observations about its properties to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred. Learn techniques to micropipette and measure small quantities of liquids Discuss the effects of resource availability on the hemlock ecosystem Discover and identify interactions (competitive, predatory, and mutually beneficial) between organisms in the…

Eighth grade: DNA Fingerprinting and Crime Scene

In this lab, students will: Discover/review the location and the role of DNA in our bodies Perform gel electrophoresis to compare DNA from suspects to DNA found at the crime scene Explore how genetic signatures are used in forensics and other applications Discuss how environmental and genetic factors influence organisms

Make a Field Trip Reservation

Please use the calendar below to access our availability calendar. One lab can accommodate up to 32 participants. If you have a group of over 64 participants, please let us know at culsoc@clemson.edu. We have a large group scheduled we can share with you!

Fees and Payment

*Fees are as follows for laboratory experiences: One laboratory field trip (up to 16 participants): $200 One laboratory field trip (17-32 participants): $300 Two concurrent laboratory field trips (33-48 participants): $500 Two concurrent laboratory field trips (49-64 participants): $600 *Discount available for groups over 100 students

Forms for Your Trip

Check out these forms for assistance with planning your field trip. Everything you need for a successful lab experience, including directions, safety information, meal planning, and permission forms.

Other Campus Activities While at Clemson University

Tours and Activities To make the most of your trip to Clemson University, consider visiting one of these locations after your lab. Please make your own arrangements in advance by following the information provided on their websites.

Lab Field Trips At Your Site

If you can’t come to Clemson, the Clemson University Science Outreach Center labs can come to you. After reviewing the information below, please contact us to discuss your needs.