Seeing what we hear on a giant gas BBQ is just one of the things set to amaze students at this year’s Science Roadshow. The Roadshow seeks to inspire and make interactive science experiences accessible to students from all corners of the country by enlivening the science curriculum.
The Science Roadshow is open to all schools that have booked and is being hosted by Raglan Area School on Wednesday 15 March.
The “sound wave” BBQ is part of the “Sounding Out Waves” show that examines concepts to do with sound such as vibration, frequency and amplitude. Another show, “Mighty Materials”, looks at the physical and chemical properties of some different substances like metals and fabrics and how these are put to everyday use.
In between the two shows, there are over 60 interactive exhibits to explore, aimed to broaden student knowledge and experience of science and the world around them. The exhibits are grouped into key themes – Earth Science, Helping the Senses, Light, Movement, Observations and Inferences, Pressure.
Esther Cullen, Manager of the Science Roadshow, says “Being able to get your hands on things and try them out, while having fun, is a great way for students to start a life time engagement with science.” Visitors can try their hand at anything from stepping inside a wind tunnel and experiencing gale force winds to using the plastic moulding exhibit to create a personalised plaque – all part of some unique and memorable learning experiences that makes science more accessible and fun. The Science Roadshow also provides classroom ready resources for teachers.
An annual national event since 1990, the Science Roadshow is currently touring over 115 locations throughout New Zealand in both remote rural areas and city venues. Over 46,000 students from more than 450 schools are expected to visit the Science Roadshow this year.
“We want all students to connect, and remain connected, with science and technology throughout their lives,” says Ian Kennedy, Roadshow Director. “Every person needs knowledge of how scientific processes work and to have some level of scientific literacy so that they can participate in the many science-related decisions that society must take. And it all starts with children!”
For further information or to find out when the Science Roadshow will be in your town go to www.roadshow.org or contact:
Maureen Jones (maureen@roadshow.org)
The National Science-Technology Roadshow Trust
Tel: (04) 499 7865
