Bring Mi-Sci to you! Mi-Sci’s Traveling Science team brings science workshops and group presentations to your school or event that will inspire learners to explore and appreciate science.
All workshops and programs support Michigan Science Grade Level Content Expectations. Call to find out more information on how the Michigan Science Center is supporting the Next Generation Science Standards.
Pricing information available here.
Physical Science –
- Magnets: Discover the force of magnetism as we push and pull using magnets of all shapes and sizes. Students will make objects defy gravity and see a magnet made by using electricity. Grades K-2
- Sounds All Around – Our sound activities and demonstrations will break music down to its elements. Waves and vibrations can be experienced in a simple yet fascinating way. We’ll use tuning forks, singing aluminum rods, dancing oobleck, boomwhackers, and other tools to demonstrate the science of sound. There will be increased emphasis on different types of waves for older students. Grades 1-6
- Fruit Conductors – Explore the world of electricity and find out what items make good insulators and conductors. Ever wonder how much electric potential energy is stored in produce? We’ll see what fruits and vegetables make the best batteries and we’ll turn a pickle into a light bulb! Grades 2-8
- ‘Current’ Events – What is electricity and how does it flow? Students will observe the power of electricity and learn about its simplest form. We’ll then find out what happens when electricity meets a pickle! Grades 2-8
- Roller Coasters – Explore the physics behind rollercoasters! We’ll work together as a team to build a coaster in your classroom while discussing the different types of energy, acceleration, velocity, and more! Grades 3-8
- Wind Turbine – Participants will be challenged to maximize the amount of electricity generated by a wind turbine of their own creation by changing the shape of its blades. Work as a team and use problem solving skills to help increase the turbine’s performance. Grades 3-8
- States of Matter – Learn how to define the states of matter and experience substances changing from one state to another. Some substances blur the line between liquid and solid. We’ll get our hands into some slimy stuff to decide which state it is. Ask about adding dry ice! Grades K-6
- Chemical and Physical Changes – Let’s simplify chemistry by taking a close look at the differences between chemical and physical changes. Grades 3-8
Earth/Space Science –
- STARLAB – The STARLAB is an inflatable, portable planetarium. During each session, our educator will give tours of the current night sky using the STARLAB’s star projector, featuring bright stars, constellations, planets, and the moon. (30-minute presentation) Grades K-Adult
- Lunar Logic – We’ll explore the Earth-Moon system by observing moon phases. Learn how the relationship of these two planetary bodies affects systems here on Earth. Grades 3-5
- Cavernous Explorations – Journey to the center of caves and mines! Learn how caves are formed and see our exciting demonstration as we make our own stalagmite. We’ll also explore the different types of mines and talk about the one in our backyard! Did you know Detroit has a mine? Grades K-8
Life Science –
- Diving into DNA – Participants will be able to describe what DNA is, where it’s found and how it codes for traits. Everything living has DNA and students will be able to extract DNA from a variety of fruits. Grades 6-8
- Cow Eye Dissection– Students will work in pairs to perform a cow eye dissection while under the direction of a trained Mi-Sci staff member. We’ll compare the cow eye to human eyes as we take a close look at its features and functions. (Supply fee per 30 students) Grades 4-8
Live Animal Programs (Available April – October) –
- Animal Invaders: Animals are a very important part of our environment. They occupy many of the same spaces we do, whether we welcome them or not! In this program we’ll discuss the benefits and risks of living among critters of different types including invasive species in Michigan. We’ll observe some LIVE examples of these animals throughout the program. Grades K-Adult
- Animal Habitats: Is there one ideal place for all animals to live? Animals inhabit locations all over our planet and have different requirements to thrive. We’ll take a look at these different habitats and see how animals have adjusted to living in extreme conditions. We also bring LIVE animals so students can make observations and place the animals into the appropriate habitat. Grades K-3
- Animal Adaptations: Animals adapt over time to make surviving in the wild much easier. In this workshop, students will expand their understanding of adaptations by observing LIVE animals and discussing different biological traits. After viewing the animals, participants will engage in a hands-on activity to create a creature of their own using some of the adaptations discussed. Grades K-5
Restrictions apply; please call for more information.
Group Presentations –
- Science Spectacular (45 Minutes) – Join us as we take a tour of science! In this exciting group presentation, we’ll talk about various science concepts using large scale demonstrations. Works best in an auditorium but can be adapted to most spaces. Grades K-8
- It’s Alive in Eekstein’s Lab (30 Minutes) – Dr. Eekstein and his assistant, Igor, have a dilemma! They need help from volunteers as they explain different functions of the brain, circulatory system, heart, lungs, digestive tract, and other body systems to explore how we can give ourselves a ‘body makeover.’ Grades 1-5
SCIENCEPALOOZA-
Available during the day, or for evening events, SCIENCEPALOOZA is sure to inspire children and adults to discover and appreciate the wonders of science. SCIENCEPALOOZA includes 12 hands-on activities staffed by school or family volunteers at a location of your choice!
Explore science concepts from astronomy to forces and motion. Participants will rotate through activities and discover the most fundamental and exciting principles in science. Build bridges and rockets, and then take a ride on a hovercraft! Up to 300 students.
Provided by location:
12 Tables and Chairs
12 Volunteers (minimum) – Please ask volunteers to arrive
at least 45 minutes before event for training.
Large open space
Electrical Outlets
Contact our Outreach Coordinator at Outreach@Mi-Sci.org or 313. 577.8400, x238 for additional information and reservations.