Math Field Trip in Orange County: Engaging STEM Exploration for Students

Irvine (UC Irvine Campus and Surrounding STEM Centers)

Day 1: Hands-On Math Exploration in Orange County

Morning:

Gather at the UC Irvine campus for a guided tour of the Institute for Mathematical Sciences (IMS) where students will engage in interactive problem‑solving stations and meet graduate mentors. Afterward, explore the UCI Bren Hall atrium, which showcases cutting‑edge research displays and a live demonstration of fractal generation.

Afternoon:

Head to the UCI Arboretum for a nature‑inspired math walk, linking patterns in plant growth to Fibonacci sequences, then visit the nearby Irvine Spectrum Center where a pop‑up math puzzle kiosk challenges groups to solve real‑world geometry riddles while enjoying a light lunch at the food court.

Evening:

Conclude the day at the Orange County Great Park’s Great Balloon ride platform, where a brief astronomy‑themed talk connects celestial coordinates to trigonometry. Finish with dinner at a family‑friendly pizza restaurant that offers a “Math Night” menu featuring fraction‑based toppings for a fun, educational twist.

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
Institute for Mathematical Sciences (IMS) TourFree (school group reservation)
UCI Bren Hall AtriumFree
UCI Arboretum Math WalkFree
Irvine Spectrum Center Lunch$12 per student
Great Balloon Platform Astronomy TalkFree
Dinner at Pizza Restaurant$15 per student
Estimated Total (per person)$27-30 per student (excluding transportation and optional souvenirs)
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