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4th Grade Tall Ship

Tall Ship

4th Grade Trip

In 4th grade, students read Two Years Before the Mast by Henry Richard Dana, a memoir detailing the challenges and adventures of life as a 19th-century sailor. To deepen their understanding, the class participates in a Tall Ship field trip, where they experience hands-on activities that bring the book’s themes and maritime history to life.

 

6 Weeks Before

In preparation for the field trip, students practice working in crews like sailors, collaborating to tie knots, operate block and tackle systems, tell time using bell intervals, and even sing sea shanties, immersing themselves in the maritime traditions of the 19th century.

A group of children learn to sail on a traditional wooden sailboat, pulling on ropes under the guidance of an instructor.

A large sailing ship, the 'Mystic Whaler', is docked at a marina, with people walking around and enjoying the sunny day.

All Aboard!

On the day of the field trip, students are warmly welcomed by sailors upon arriving at the Maritime Museum. They dive into the full experience of a sailor's life, working in groups to practice mustering, loading the ship, hoisting the mast, using mechanical advantage, swabbing the decks, and more.

  • teacher helping student at her desk
  • ballerinas are throwing their ballet shoes in the air
  • Happy girl in sportswear resting on ground looking at camera while other girls sitting behind her enjoying talk
  • Auto mechanic working in garage
  • Schoolchildren reading in the library
  • teacher and schoolgirl using digital tablet in the classroom
  • kids on sailboat with man
  • kids following orders from captain
  • kids on sailboat
  • captain with sailors
  • kids in line to receive orders