April 27, 2015
Calling all budding scientists—BYU is kicking off an explosive summer at this year’s Chem Open Lab Day. Don’t forget your goggles!
Y-Chem, BYU’s chapter of the American Chemical Society, will host Chem Open Lab Day on Saturday May 9, and Saturday, May 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in room W140 of the Ezra Taft Benson Building (BNSN). Young scientists grades 7 through 12 are invited to see what makes science so exciting through fiery and colorful experiments.
“Open Lab Day gives our members the opportunity to help younger students find joy in chemistry—the thing that our members love,” said Tamara Cassinat, president of Y-Chem. “We hope that through their experience, the students see how dynamic and interesting science actually is.”
In addition to experimenting, students will also have the opportunity to attend a Chemistry Magic Show, tour a research lab, and enjoy liquid nitrogen ice cream.
Cassinat said she thinks Chem Open Lab Day is effective because experiencing science and chemistry in a lab setting is much different than just listening to a lecture or reading a textbook about scientific concepts.
“Helping kids discover the joy of science is important,” she said. “Most students automatically turn off when they learn about the ‘hard stuff’ like science and math. But if we as a club, can help the students that come realize that science is fun and worth the effort, then we are accomplishing something very important.”
To enjoy the science-filled fun, attendees will need to wear long pants and close-toed shoes. Students must be checked in by 9:45 a.m. on the day they are scheduled to attend.
For more information on Open Lab Day activities, visit the Y-Chem website or contact Sue Mortensen at suemort@byu.edu. To register your student for Chem Open Lab Day, visit the registration form.