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Field Trips to the Science CenterExplore hands-on science exhibits while completing an Activity Booklet to share back at school. Investigate geological processes that shape the Earth using our Quake Zone exhibits and Dynamic Earth gallery. Create your own stream, activate ocean waves, and observe the underground dynamics of a geyser. Then participate in an enjoyable, educational demonstration focusing on the “Balance of Nature.”
January is 4th Grade Month! Watershed Photo Detective Students use science center cameras to capture photos of a variety of plants and evidence of storm water pollution during this interactive investigation of the adjacent Santiago Creek bed. Standards: [LS 3 b, c; ES a, c] This program is sponsored by Project Pollution Prevention. More About Making the Grade >>
Science on a Mission Or “Super-size” your field trip to Mission San Juan Capistrano by adding a science component for an extra $4 per student. Join Discovery Science Center staff at the Mission as we investigate the building blocks of geology during this scientific exploration of the Jewel of San Juan Capistrano. Experiment with designs and materials that strengthen structures as large as Mission walls, or as small as a swallow’s nest. This collaborative, hands-on program aligns with the 4th grade California Science Content Standards [ES 4 a, b; 5a- pg. 12]. For reservations call 949-234-1300 ext. 1306.
About Field Trips: - One adult per ten students is required
- Includes grade-specific activities
- Live science demonstration
- Free "come again" passes for students
- Must reserve field trips in advance
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“Science to Go” - Programs at Your School
Science to Go programs are held at your school and taught by Discovery Science Center staff. They are 50 minutes in length and align with California Science Content Standards.
| Planetarium Starlab Starlab, our portable planetarium, is designed to surround your students with the universe. Science, literature, and history are integrated into this daytime study of nighttime stars. Starlab can be set up in any 18’ X 25’ room with a 12-foot ceiling.
Electrical Circuits Create a simple circuit. Design and build other circuits using components such as wires, batteries, bulbs, and speakers. Standards: [PS-1a, d, e, g - pg 11]
Owls Are a Hoot! Investigate actual parts of the owl. Dissect owl pellets and learn the role that owls play in the food pyramid. Standards: [LS-2a, b, c; 3a,c - pgs. 11-12] | Magnetism Students learn about the different types of magnets. Investigate how temporary and permanent magnets are used. Make your own electro-magnet! Standards: [PS-1c, d, f – pg.11]
Electric Motors Students make the connection between electricity and magnetism as they explore electromagnetic fields and build their own electric motor to take home. Standards: [PS-1 a,b,d,e,f,g - pg 11] |
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Assemblies at Your School
Assemblies are 50 minutes in length and can be adapted to any age audience. We have identified the California Science Content Standards for specific age groups.
Motion Commotion  Experience the awesome power of physics as we explore forces and energy. Overcome gravity using air pressure, see your voice , brave the pendulum wrecking ball and much more. This action-packed assembly is sure to blow you away! [PS 1g]
Super Cool By far the “coolest” program we offer is this demonstration focusing on the three states of matter: gas, liquid, and solid. A series of experiments will feature liquid nitrogen, with a boiling point of -319 degrees Fahrenheit (-196o C)! | Watt’s Current An electrifying demonstration awaits you! Observe the power of electricity and learn about electrical circuits as a Science Center staff member operates a Tesla coil and an electrostatic generator. It is sure to make your hair stand on end! Students are invited to participate during this energy-filled presentation of electricity. [PS-1a, e, g - pg 11] |
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Teachers’ Programs Plan to attend a free Educators' Workshop on any First Monday of the Month! Call 714-913-5012 to find out more about our Professional Development Programs. View lesson plans designed for 4th grade |