Videoconferences allow the Marian University EcoLab the opportunity to bring interactive science programs to your location. Programs are 45 minutes in length and $115.00 each. Programs are available by request to work with your classroom schedule.

Grades Pre K-2

Catch Me If You Can
Why do some animals have scales, stripes, stingers, or spines? Explore how some of nature’s most amazing creatures protect themselves. Get up close with some real animals and try some hands-on activities.

If I Were a Goldfish
Living creatures are found in almost every corner of the Earth, from the deepest oceans to the hottest deserts. Find out how each has adapted to survive the unique environment in which it is found.

Me, Myself, and I
Young children are just becoming aware of their own bodies. Using Eric Carle’s book From Head to Toe as a starting point, participants will learn about how their bodies work through fun activities and examining real organs. Children will also investigate their senses and determine how they help us in our everyday lives.

The World Around Me
Calling all young scientists! Participate in experiments and demonstrations that help us to better understand the world around us. Your active participation is encouraged! Young scientists will explore scientific principles in ways that will spark their curiosity and interest in science.

Grades 3-5

The Body – Gross, Yucky & Oh So Cool!
We all know kids ask those inevitable questions that adults are hesitant to answer. This program explores functions of the human body. Find out about the microscopic “bugs” living on all of us. If you’re a squeamish adult, take caution, we may gross you out.

*Comparative Dissection Lab
Join the Marian University EcoLab as we examine and compare the anatomy of three different animals. Learn about adaptations, classification, and body systems of a snake, rat, and pigeon. Students will work in groups to investigate and dissect one of the above-mentioned animals. Discussion of similarities and differences will follow, as students will have the opportunity to view the work of their peers. (*Special fees are required for this program.)

It’s a Small World
How do snake skin, butterfly wings, and sand differ when we look at them with our eyes, a magnifying glass, and a microscope? This program provides a hands-on introduction to magnifiers, magnification, and microscopes. Participants will view microscopic marvels of everyday objects, while learning the proper techniques to use a real microscope.

Mixed-up Mixtures and Solutions
Look no further for hands on experiments! What are the differences between mixtures and solutions? What are some mixtures found in the human body? What are some of the properties of molecules? During this program, students are encouraged to investigate and explore various scientific principles through experimentation. 
 

Grades 6-8

Behind the Story
Behind the Story is a unique approach to the study of genetics. Using stories of students' early years, we will explore such topics as DNA, Mendelian genetics, and genetic modification. This hilarious and informative program will leave students with a fresh perspective of the tales of their youth!

Cool Chemistry & Hot Reactions
Join the Marian University EcoLab as we explore chemical reactions with fun, hands-on experiments. Participants will identify reactions that glow, change color, and emit or absorb heat energy. This program will use the scientific method to help students better understand the scientific principles of chemical and physical reactions.

Comparative Dissection Lab
Join teh Marian University EcoLab as we examine and compare the anatomy of three different animals. Learn about adaptations, classification, and body systems of a snake, rat, and pigeon. Students will work in groups to investigate and dissect one of the above-mentioned animals. Discussion of similarities and differences will follow, as students will have the opportunity to view the work of their peers.

Forensic Life Science
CSI Vegas, Miami, or New York; crimes are being solved everywhere. Distinguish between the fact and fiction of these shows. What does forensics really mean? This program will expose students to some different lab techniques that are helping solve many mysteries; from anthropologists looking for clues to the past, to entomologists studying insects in order to better understand decomposition of tissue. This program contains mature subject matter.

It’s Fossil Time!
How do scientists know how long ago different animals lived? How can scientists determine that extinct animals were related? Join us as we explore living things that roamed the earth millions of years ago. We'll determine the relative age of fossils using the concept of layering. This program compliments the PBS/NOVA series, Origins, which is available on loan in VHS format.

Life-Saving Nature
The idea that nature provides cures and remedies is not a new idea. For example, as early as 2000 B.C., ulcers were treated with mold. This program will explore the life-saving plants and animals scientists use to develop the medicines of today.

Grades 9-12

In the News programs: The Marian University EcoLab will share some of the science behind current issues and research making the news today. Participants will discuss that advancements in science may pose ethical questions and that opinions vary among individuals. During the program, participants will have the opportunity to exchange their ideas about science and the ethical issues realized.

In The News - Genetically Modified Organisms
Humans have been genetically modifying organisms for years, but what does that really mean? This program will explain the science behind the term “genetically modified.” Further, participants will understand why scientists have developed modification techniques, how they are being used in the world today, and the effects on our daily and future lives.

In The News – Cloning and Stem Cell Research
Cloning is a hot topic in the news. This program will begin to help participants understand the science behind stem cell and cloning research. From there, participants will learn how scientists are using these principles to develop new procedures to improve the quality of life for humans.

In The News – Forensic Life Science
CSI Vegas, Miami, or New York; crimes are being solved everywhere. Distinguish between the fact and fiction of these shows. What does forensics really mean? Are the cases always solved so quickly and easily? This program will expose students to some different lab techniques that are helping solve many mysteries; from anthropologists looking for clues to the past, to entomologists studying insects in order to better understand decomposition of tissue.

In The News – Epidemiology
The Centers for Disease Control provides health and life-saving information about epidemics that may concern our nation and citizens. But what are scientists studying and discovering? By starting with the basics of life and learning about some of the microscopic organisms that impact our city and population’s well-being, we will become more knowledgeable citizens and protect future epidemics from occurring.

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