Architectural Field Trip Educates 3rd Grade

Third grade students learned about design, materials and construction from professional architects during a field trip.

As part of their elective investigation into different aspects of the city, some 3rd graders chose to take a deep dive into researching architecture in Chicago. The group was fortunate to arrange visits to Gensler and Partners by Design to learn firsthand from professionals in the business.

During their visit, students heard about projects each firm was working on, viewed a wide range of building materials and learned the steps involved in designing and constructing a building. Students met with the principals of each firm and took tours of each office, including the sample libraries where designers find their inspiration. As a culminating activity, students worked with architects on drawing buildings, which they combined into an oversized panoramic illustration of Chicago’s skyline.

Parker thanks parent/guardian architects Benjy Ward and Lindsey McCaw for opening their doors to students and sharing their expertise!

Check out photos from the field trip here.