On Tuesdays and Thursdays during September, local elementary students are exploring the connections between popular culture and natural science during “Adventures and Activities” at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.
This month participants are exploring the connections between the Star Wars movies and natural science.
“My idea for using Star Wars came from the fact that that’s where it all began for me,” said Ian Trevethan, education director for Adventures and Activities. “For me, science began with thinking about science fiction- how land speeders worked, or what would a Tauntaun eat if it lived on an ice planet.”
“That’s the beginning of critical thinking, and that’s a valuable skill in any field.”
Each week participants start out with a snack, while the day’s concept is introduced.
“We try to utilize museum exhibits and displays to illustrate the concept of the day in a more interactive setting,” said Trevethan. “We include a hands-on activity that allows students to bring something home to show and discuss with their friends and families.”
“Our ‘Adventures and Activities’ programs allow for local children an immersive educational experience that is beyond what they would get in school,” Trevethan said.
“It is our hope that we are igniting curiosity about the natural world in these young minds that will last a lifetime.”
The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
[toggle_content title=”See the September’s weekly lesson themes here.” class=””]Sept. 2 and Sept. 4: “The Geology of Star Wars”
Students explored the geology, geography, and even the ecology of the planets seen in the Star Wars universe by examining the Earthly locations where the scenes from the movies were filmed. Then they built terrariums based upon the geology and geography from a galaxy far, far away.
Sept. 9 and 11: “The Star Wars Zoo”
Students explored some of the adaptations found in some of the more unique animals from this planet and learn how they aid in different ecological conditions. They made Star Wars themed hand puppets based upon some of the students’ favorite creatures hypothesizing how the creatures have adapted to their other-worldly environments.
Sept. 16 and 18: “Traveling to Galaxies Far, Far Away”
Building upon their knowledge of planetary diversity within the Star Wars universe, the students will explore just how far away planets are from one another. They will learn about current space exploration and the limits of current space exploration in our own galaxy. The hands on activity for this week is making “X-Wing” space ships