College of Wooster Invites Community to Experience the 'Joys of Science'

Hands-on experiences available on Science Day (April 17) and Archaeology Day (April 24)

WOOSTER, Ohio - Curious about science, but not sure if you're ready to set foot in the lab? Then consider visiting The College of Wooster during the next two weekends for a pair of hands-on learning experiences.

On Saturday, April 17, Wooster will hold its annual Science Day from 1-4 p.m. in Taylor Hall (308 E. University St.). The following Saturday (April 24), the College will sponsor its annual Archaeology Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. behind Lowry Center (1189 Beall Ave.).

Demonstrations and experiments will be presented in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, geology, neuroscience, and physics on Science Day. From the creation of liquid nitrogen ice cream by the Chemistry Club to a "Touch Tank" sponsored by the Biology Club that will enable visitors to handle sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and other sea creatures, participants of all ages will be able to immerse themselves in the scientific universe. There will also be a display of fossils from the Geology Club and a collection of animal brains from the Neuroscience Department. In addition, the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Club will have a fire-bubble demonstration and a fluorescence demonstration, while the Physics Club will have multiple demos, including liquid-nitrogen rockets, a bicycle gyroscope, optical illusions, and a Van de Graaff generator. Refreshments will also be provided.

Archaeology Day will feature an atlatl (spear-throwing) area, a flint knapper who will demonstrate the techniques used by prehistoric Indians to make stone tools, and representatives from the Wayne County Historical Society and the Wayne County Cemetery Preservation Society. There will also be a sand pile with various objects buried in it for children to excavate and find, as well as "cave" painting (large cardboard boxes on which children can draw). In addition, several Wooster students will explain and demonstrate aspects of their Independent Study projects.

Both events are free and open to the public. Additional information is available by phone (330-263-2145) or e-mail.