February 9th, 2011
The first event of the season was a success!! The event was held at NWIC’s main campus and activities highlighted the basic science, technology, engineering and mathematics of rocketry. Mr. Gary Brandt, professor of computer technology, taught participants that getting a rocket to fly successfully takes more understanding and experimentation than just having a fuel cell and a tube. Participants watched, discussed and learned how hollow paper tubes could fly higher, faster and straighter with a cone nose and a set of fins for direction. Participants also learned of the various phases and forces acting on a rocket in flight, while adding new vocabulary to their understanding of rocketry.
At lunch time, the animated telling of the Lummi Indian legend of the origin of fire helped participants associate the same energy that helps cook their food and heat their homes as the same energy that can explosively propel a rocket into space and beyond. Each participant personally discovered the ability to construct, arrange and successfully launch their own paper and water-bottle rocket. Additionally, all participants celebrated in the cooperative learning achievement through understanding a branch of science they had never known before. The day finished with a group ceremony of individual achievement as Rocket Scientists.
Physics in Motion
Check Out the Northwest Indian College Space Center:
http://blogs.nwic.edu/spacecenter/
January 24th, 2011
Saturday Science Academy Flyer
Have you ever wondered about a rocket blasting off and surging to great heights?
JOIN US! This Saturday, FEBRUARY 5th, 2011 from 10AM-3PM for PHYSICS IN MOTION (the science of rocketry and lift-off)
This year, the NWIC Science Dept. will be hosting a new exciting series of hands-on, active-learning science programs called the Saturday Science Academy. This opportunity is offered with grant funding, with no charge to those who attend. Lunch will be provided and any special dietary needs will be accomodated. These programs will run on select Saturdays throughout the winter and spring quarters of 2011 and will host Native American high school teens interested in understanding more about science and Native American culture.
These events will include topics like:
- Marine Science (beach combing, shellfish & sea tides)
- River Ecology (salmon life-cycle, habitat restoration, & hatcheries)
- Physics in Motion (the science of rocketry and lift-off)
- Today’s Latest Techs (new gadgets by local inventors)
- Ethnobotany (Native American foods, tools and shelter)
- Forest Ecology (visit to the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie NF)
- Shannon Point Marine Center
- Friday Harbor Laboratories
- Bellingham Fish Hatchery
If you are interested in signing up contact Nathanael Davis by email at ndavis@nwic.edu or by phone 360.392.4271. Remember, the first Saturday Science Academy is almost here, so sign up soon!!! 🙂
