Sunsational! for 3rd-5th Graders
HELD: June 17-28,2019
FEE: $200 (scholarships were available)
sunsational! for Middle school students
held: July 8-19,2019
FEE: $200 (Scholarships were available)
session details
Each session of Sunsational! covered similar topics. The curriculum was age appropriate, and the middle school session included more advanced activities in both the classroom and laboratory.
Hands-on activities, in outdoor, classroom and laboratory settings, were designed to engage students’ interest in science and STEM careers. This included a series of activities related to (1) the sun; (2) the NASA Parker Solar Probe Mission; (3) solar energy; and, (4) STEM careers and training in areas related to solar research and solar energy. Many of the educational activities were from the NASA Education Program (http://www.nasa.gov/offices/education/about/index.html).
Both sessions included a field trip and concluded with student presentation of selected activities to their peers, family members and other adult guests on the last day of the program, followed by lunch.
background information
The African American Ethnic Academy and the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute (BTC Institute), both 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organizations, have collaborated for over 20 years to offer A Celebration of Life, a summer science program for upper elementary and middle school students. Open to all students, an important goal of this partnership is to support underserved students’ interest in the life sciences and provide them with the tools for success in school
In addition to developing knowledge and abilities associated with scientific investigations in field and laboratory settings (e.g. formulating and testing hypotheses, utilizing problem-solving skills, learning and demonstrating correct techniques), students are challenged to develop their communication skills (e.g. through teamwork, journals, presentations to parents and family members). They are also encouraged to express and develop their creativity in numerous ways. Information regarding African-American scientists throughout history is shared, and role models of color are key players in program activities.
