The camp, sponsored by The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and WFSU, takes place in July.

Last Year's Camp
In 2009 SciGirls campers traveled to a variety of area sites, engaging in hands-on activities that underscored important science principles. The girls had an opportunity to meet many scientists from the Mag Lab, PBS&J and other firms and government agencies and learn more about their daily work. They learned about geochemistry at the Magnet Lab, tested water for nitrates, phosphates and dissolved oxygen at the Magnet Lab and Leon Sinks Geological Area and snorkeled in the Gulf of Mexico to explore sea life. They also visited local laboratories and departments at Florida State University, observed an operation at the local animal shelter and collected fossils at a quarry.

The 2009 camp focused on water quality, particularly storm water run-off issues in and around Leon County. Campers will have a reunion weekend to install a rain garden at the Magnet Lab that will capture storm water run-off and store it briefly so that it can be filtered into the ground system, rather than running directly into the natural pond behind the lab. The girls filmed their exploits with cameras provided by WFSU. Each day provided an opportunity for fun, excitement and exposure to new areas of science.

SciGirls I
Girls travel to a variety of area sites, engaging in hands-on activities that underscore important science principles. In the past, they conducted an invasive species survey at Wakulla Springs, explored the Marianna Caverns, and spent a day at the Magnet Lab learning about water under the Earth's mantle as well as water from outer space. They also snorkeled in the Gulf of Mexico to explore sea life. Each day provided an opportunity for fun, excitement and new areas of science to explore.

SciGirls II
Girls learn to explore science in more depth and in ways designed to teach strategies to synthesize the experiences. From digging up bones for a forensic anthropology exercise to making models of comets from dry ice and other ingredients, campers participate in in-depth experiences that challenge their scientific knowledge. Activities include snorkeling in the Gulf of Mexico and learning how marine biologists conduct research to using computer programs to track invasive species.

Details
Girls must complete an online application, including a letter of recommendation from a school teacher or a counselor. We look for a diverse group of young women who have exhibited a keen interest in science.

2010 Camp
We are now accepting applications for the 2010 camp. Here are the details:

• Dates: July 19 - 30, 2010
• Cost: $300
• Camp hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday
• Base of operation: The Magnet Lab

TO APPLY
Visit The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory web site. Application deadline: March 26, 2010.

Related Links

THE SECRET LIFE OF SCIENTISTS
BOSTON, MA- September 2009, NOVA will launch a brand-new web-only series, The Secret Life of Scientists-- www.pbs.org/nova/secretlife--highlighting two science and engineering stars every month. In a selection of three to six short, punchy films, each person describes his or her passions both within and outside of science. The site will also include opportunities to interact directly with the scientists through "questions & answers," sharing stories, and bonus video that digs deep into each scientist's work and life to reveal more about who these thinkers are as people.

 

• NEW! Rain Garden Photos
• 2009 SciGirls Video Blog
• 2008 SciGirls Blog
• 2008 SciGirls Slideshow
• 2007 SciGirls Slideshow
• 2006 WFSU SciGirls video (new window will pop up).

For more information
Contact WFSU Educational Outreach at 850/487-3170 x325 or x326.