Science Discovery Assembly Programs ~ Monday-Friday, March 3-7, 2003 ~ Dear Principals and Teachers: The Western Upper Peninsula Center for Science, Mathematics and Environmental Education is pleased to coordinate the Science Discovery Assembly Programs for K-6 schools in the Copper Country and Gogebic-Ontonagon ISDs from March 3-7. The attached schedule confirms that date, time, and location of the Science Discovery assembly programs that you have selected for your school.

Below is a description of the three Science Discovery programs to share with your staff, so that they can prepare the students prior to the assembly program.

Animal Tales (Pre-school & Gr. 1) uses live animals to illustrate four stories that are read aloud to the students. After each story, a live animal featured in the story is shown and questions about that animal are answered.  The stories include:The Boastful Bullfrog, There Is An Alligator Under My Bed, and The Day Jimmy's Boa Ate The Wash.

Creepy Critters Can Be Cool (K-6) presents the differences between insects and arachnids, as well as the differences between amphibians and reptiles.   Both live insects (large!) and a few models of insects will be shown to students.  Typically, a giant hissing cockroach, a millipede, and a rose haired tarantula are used. Common student misconceptions are addressed and misleading information is explained.  In the second half of the show, a large species of frog is used to discuss the unique characteristics of amphibians.  In addition to the frog, a lizard, an American alligator and a large python are shown to illustrate the similarities and differences between amphibians and reptiles. As students leave the room they will be able to pet the python!

Tropical Rainforest: A Circle of Life (K-6) uses live rainforest animals to explain food chains, photosynthesis and how animals and plants interact for the long-term benefit of all.  A giant hissing cockroach, a frog, a tarantula, and a giant millipede are used to illustrate the carnivores, herbivores and decomposers that comprise the food chain typical of rainforests. Students will also learn about the most famous type of rainforest animal¾a macaw, which is the largest of the parrots.  A large python is displayed at the end of the show which students can pet as they leave the room!

PRESENTER: The programs will be conducted by Mike Roberts, owner ofScience Discovery, Inc., established in 1989 by certified teachers. Science Discovery staff include an animal trainer and professional entertainer. Animals are housed in a USDA licensed facility. Programs are designed to make learning fun and safe.

GROUP SIZE: up to 100 students

PROGRAM LENGTH: 45 minutes (allow 15 minutes between assemblies)

SET-UP & TEAR DOWN TIME: 30 minutes to set up and tear-down.

COST: $250 per half day, for up to three assemblies in the same location. Schools will be billed by the Copper Country Intermediate School District.

For More Information, contact:

Joan Chadde, Assembly Coordinator

Western Upper Peninsula Center for Science, Mathematics and Environmental Education

105 Dillman Hall, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Dr., Houghton, MI 49931-1295

Email: jchadde@mtu.edu Tel: 906-487-3341 Website: wupcenter.mtu.edu