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Middle school science simulations available
from SD Discovery Center
The SD Discovery Center in Pierre is
finalizing a contract that will provide funding for unique educational
simulations in which SD middle school students can participate. Director
Kristie Maher invites schools to contact her for further information at
605/224-8295 or
http://www.sd-discovery.com .
According to her information, the simulations
will place students in grades 5-8 in
Montserrat as members of an
emergency response team.
The simulation opens with an astronaut
lift-off: “T-minus five seconds, four, three, two, one. We have lift-off!”
Once in orbit, the astronauts repair a satellite that immediately begins
broadcasting data about volcanic activity on Montserrat
Island in the Caribbean. The island's
twelve thousand residents await the emergency response team’s scientific
analysis of the situation. The tension grows when it appears that a hurricane
is on course for the island.
The student emergency response teams will
apply their math, science, technology, and literacy skills to manage a
"real-life" crisis. The students will have an opportunity to work under
pressure and exercise leadership, initiative and cooperation. These
activities are interdisciplinary and address multiple SD curriculum standards,
according to Ms. Maher. |
