Scientific Exploration

TASC elementary and middle school programs will have a chance to work this school year with a new science curriculum that dips into the exploration of sound and music, the science behind magic and crime scene explorations, among other topics. The Intercultural Center for Research in Education (INCRE), in partnership with a grant from the National Science Foundation, has developed the new Afterschool Explorations in Science (AXIS) curriculum, which also includes units on exploring paper, the secrets of sugar and salt and exploring energy.

Each thematic unit incorporates the following sample elements:

• The hands-on science activities utilize no-cost or low-cost materials that are readily available in after-school programs, homes and the community
• The materials are easy to adapt to varying time schedules and age groups
• Each unit takes several weeks to complete, providing in-depth investigation of a particular topic, continuity from one day to the next, and many opportunities for interdisciplinary extension activities. However, each day’s activities also stand alone and fit well into flexible after-school schedules. Kids can participate in individual activities or entire units
• The topics are aligned with school curriculum standards
• The materials include opportunities for parental involvement
• Many activities have an environmental focus that promotes exploration, investigation and understanding of issues in kids’ communities