WQPT | Science for Kids | Brought to you by a grant from the ALCOA Foundation

Exploring Science Although their adventures began in the classroom with interesting topics and special guest speakers, the kids participated in lots of extra activities such as field trips, Saturday Science classes with their families, Tech Club and Tech Camp. It was an exciting year for young scientists.

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Kids at the Center for Math & Science studied insects, dinosaurs, rocks, water and plants. In addition to their regular science curriculum, they also used PBS Kids Go! iPad applications from such programs as “Cat in the Hat” and “Dinosaur Train.” They also attended afterschool and extracurricular activities to learn about all things related to STEM subjects –science, technology, engineering and math.

Each month the teachers chose a topic and hosted families for an afternoon of kitchen chemistry and hands-on science. Students learned about the Bernoulli Principle, tested balloon-powered hovercrafts and launched rockets with soda bottles. Parents promised to attend classes so they could learn about science along with their kids.

First and second graders learned how to use a variety of technology and software such as digital cameras, computers, Lego WeDo robots, iPods, iTunes, iPhoto, and Google Earth. Many parents and grandparents were anxious to learn too.

Legos aren’t just toys anymore! The first and second graders were amazingly tech savvy and built their own Lego robots. Other students participated in an iLife Camp (learning how to use and integrate iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, and iPods); a Science and Video Camp (videotaping science experiments to create their own movies); and an Edible Math Camp (doing hands-on math activities with food).

The Center for Math & Science hosted several guest speakers. It was evident that they love working in their fields of science. Including... Beekeepers Phil Crandal and Megan Crandall Cooper spoke on the importance of bees; Entomologist Dr. Rachel Serianz displayed hissing cockroaches from Madagascar; Videographer Chris Ryder taught a technology lesson on camera basics; Geologist Dr. Susan Hippler discussed oil and gas exploration around the world; Herpetologist David Nieves introduced his favorite reptiles; Marine Biologist Dr. Jeanette Thomas talked about whales and marine life; Environmentalist Geoff Manis explained how he cleans the Mississippi River; and Firefighter Tom Cassidy demonstrated fire safety.

Students visited Fusion Communications, which provides master control and production services to WQPT and other stations around the country. They learned about cameras, sets, satellites, audio and video production and animation.

In the spring the students visited the Rock Island Public Works Department and learned about waste management and the strict requirements for clean water.

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