On April 27th and May 4th, fifth-grade students from various elementary schools in St. Lucie County had an exciting opportunity to participate in the Saturday with a Scientist event hosted by Indian River State College. Let’s take a quick look at what they experienced.
- Planetarium Exploration:
- The students gathered at the planetarium, where they learned about the vastness of our universe, constellations, and the wonders of space.
- DNA Extraction Adventure:
- In smaller groups, the students got hands-on with DNA extraction from strawberries. This engaging activity introduced them to the world of genetics and scientific experimentation.
- Dinosaur Discoveries:
- The students explored the fascinating world of dinosaurs by examining Triceratops bones and other prehistoric fossils. Learning about ancient creatures sparked their curiosity.
- Meteorite Touch Experience:
- Imagine touching a real meteorite! The students had the chance to feel a piece of outer space and learn about meteor showers and cosmic phenomena.
- Ocean Acidification Experiment:
- Through a short experiment, the students discovered the effects of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems. This topic is crucial for understanding environmental challenges.
One of the students said: “I attended Saturday with a Scientist, and it was amazing! From the planetarium, to extracting DNA, and exploring dinosaur bones, I learned so much. The ocean acidification experiment was eye-opening. I’d definitely attend again!” – Alaina Keifer, West Gate K-8.
A big thank you to IRSC and Merle Litvack for hosting this enriching event. Special appreciation goes to Mr. German, Mrs. Mimnaugh, and Mrs. Kline for volunteering their time and supporting the students throughout the day.
Overall, Saturday with a Scientist left a lasting impression on these young minds, igniting their passion for science and discovery. 🌟
