Douglass Recreation Center and Sci-Tech Discovery Center
Hold Back-To-School Event

“Excitement surrounded the Douglass Recreation Center on August 16 as potential young engineers and
scientists participated in a back-to-school event where they learned how to make slime, robots, and DNA bracelets,” said Byron Williams of the Sci-Tech Discovery Center. While some children picked up back-to-school supplies, about 80 children, ages 5 - 11, also participated in three hands-on science activities.

“They learned how starch mixed with water creates a glue formed of large molecules called polymers. Building DNA bracelets taught students that DNA in their cells is responsible for many of their physical attributes. And, through a robot building project, students learned how an electrical circuit with a motor and battery can generate vibrations that was used to create artistic designs,” said Williams.

Of the three activities, the robots were the most popular. They were made from plastic cups supported by three erasable pens, and a battery-powered motor caused the cups to vibrate and draw patterns. Said Williams, “I think the kids liked this the most because they all can identify with a toy that requires a motor and battery.” He added, “The process of building something from A to Z using tools and components that they are familiar with I think is fun and intriguing.”

That is exactly Sci-Tech’s mission – to make science fun, and the fun doesn’t stop at robots, slime and DNA bracelets. On October 20, Sci-Tech is participating in a program called “Engineering your Future.” Sponsored by HiTECC, the event will take place at Williams High School and is open to all Plano ISD students.

The Sci-Tech Discovery Center opens permanently in the summer of 2009. The location for the 15,000-square-foot facility is yet be determined but curriculum has been planned. The first exhibit will be centered on nanotechnology entitled, “Too Small to See.”
The back-to-school event at the Douglass Center was presented by Sci-Tech and supported by the Junior League of Plano and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. For more information, visit Mindstretchingfun.org.

 
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