Be a Scientist!

Be a Scientist! is a Baby CTY course where students review practices of scientists and do it for themselves to be a scientist! This course is offered at:

First Session Only: La Jolla and San Mateo

Second Session Only: Alexandria

Both Sessions: Los Angeles (Windward), New York and San Mateo

Course Description

What can a geologist learn from rocks and gems? How does an engineer decide on the best bridge design? What tools does an astronomer use in his or her study of the sun? In this course, students are introduced to the methods scientists use to answer questions about the world around us. They build skills essential to scientific inquiry by engaging in hands-on investigations in a range of areas, such as botany, genetics, and chemistry.

Students examine strategies and techniques used by scientists and put them into practice. For example, as ecologists students may design and build terrariums or create field guides for the unique environment at their site. As zoologists they might observe firsthand the behavior of worms, recording notes and drawings in a scientific log; research what others have learned about worms; and share their findings with classmates. As chemists they might work in teams to explore fireworks as they learn what colors different metals produce when they burn.

Students learn to question and hypothesize; identify and manipulate variables; observe, measure, and record data; and analyze and interpret results. They work to design and carry out their own original investigations. Each student leaves the course better prepared to be a scientist. Throughout the course students discuss their challenges and successes in regular class forums and then incorporate that feedback into further study.

Lab Fee: $65

Students must have completed grades: 2 or 3