Hands-On Science Camp Runs the Gamut of Fun Courses
What do “Dissect a Comic,” “Skateboard Science,” and “Mystery Solved!” have in common? They’re all unique and featured classes at this summer’s Hands-On Science Camp, held at the California Science Center from June 26 through August 25, 2006. With over 25 classes to choose from, campers can investigate the powers of their favorite super heroes, explore the creepy-crawly world of bugs, or solve mysteries using forensic clues, during week-long programs for pre-K to 12th grade that are sure to spark the imagination.
“Our classes are unique because we can integrate exciting activities with current exhibitions at the Science Center,” says Ron Rohovit, Deputy Director for Education at the Science Center’s Amgen Center for Science Learning, which is responsible for creating and organizing the camp. This year’s curriculum includes programs that are inspired by the new special exhibit, Marvel® Super Heroes™ Science Exhibition. Students can learn about the super powers of their own bodies in “Small and Mighty,” use science and imagination to create their own incredible character in “Super Power Factory,” adapt materials such as semi-conductors or polymers to defeat a super villain in “Hero’s Lab,” and test the science in a comic book story then rewrite it as their own with the correct science in “Dissect a Comic.” All of the classes include a visit to the exhibit.
At Hands-On Science Camp there is a class for every age and stage. Little Learner programs are parent-child classes for the pre-K age group that focus on a scientific theme with exciting hands-on activities and crafts. Class titles include “Bug’s Life”, “Robots!,” and “Science Matters.”
There is a full slate of half-day and full-day sessions for students in 1st through 8th grades. Highlights include “Mystery Solved!” where students will learn forensic science; “Living in Space,” which addresses the problems in trying to create a livable world far from our planet; “Bones, Body & Biology” reveals human anatomy and biology through animal dissections; and “Skate Science,” which invites learners to put their “goofy foot” forward as they dissect ollies and vert skating, and design their own skateboard.
The Young Curator Institute is a full-day, 2-week intensive program for high school students. Under the guidance of Science Center professionals, participants will envision and build their own science exhibit. The institute is perfect for students interested in careers in museums or science education, and provides an introduction to the variety of skills necessary for presenting science concepts to general audiences.
Hands on Science Camp will take place in the Wallis Annenberg Building for Science Learning and Innovation. The facility offers state-of-the-art themed classrooms and the 32,000 square-foot Big Lab, with its large-scale experiment platforms. Many courses take advantage of the Big Lab’s unique features with hands-on investigations involving airflow, buoyancy, gravity, ecology and more.
Create a schedule to suit the family’s summer hours. Courses vary in price with half and full day session rates, and some include material costs or special activity fees. Science Center members receive a discount rate. Also available are an extended day program for 1st-8th graders, and a lunch program for all-day campers. Phone the Hands-On Science Camp Hotline at (213) 744-7440 for a free brochure, or visit www.californiasciencecenter.org/camp for a complete list of course offerings and registration form.#
