Monday, January 12, 2009

Hamill Family Play Zoo Family Play Class - Pet Pals

1/12-3/8/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
Make a new friend each week during this 8-week series class. From cats and dogs to fish and birds, we'll learn about animal friends that your child is likely to see in your backyard, around the neighborhood or maybe in your house! Classes include movement, creative play, stories, art and songs. We'll have animal visitors in class, eat snack and take trips out in the park. Children 2- 31/2 yrs. plus 1 adult

Hamill Family Play Zoo Family Play Class - Seedlings

1/12-3/8/2009 09PM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
Enjoy this "nature play group" that helps make new friends through play activities, songs, and meeting a weekly animal visitor. This class is perfect for siblings or friends to take together.


Saturday, January 31, 2009

Cabin Fever

1/31-2/1/2009 06PM-08AM | Ages: 5 and up
Spend some time sharing the wonders of winter with your family on an overnight designed especially for families. Pitch your tent, sans stakes, in the spacious Thornhill Auditorium; then gear up for a leisurely evening hike to Lake Marmo. After the hike, take a hands-on look at winter’s icy cool wonders using microscopes and hand lenses. Later, warm up by a fire with cocoa and s’mores. After a light breakfast the next morning, explore the early winter morning on a short hike. Supply list will be sent.


Sunday, February 1, 2009

Ask-a-Scientist - "A Quantum Journey"

2/1/2009 01PM-04PM | Ages: 13 and up
"A Quantum Journey" will be presented by Fermilab scientist Peter Skands.

Take science questions straight to experts. The first Sunday of each month, physicists answer questions and explain everything from the Big Bang to how a particle accelerator works. Each three-hour session includes a presentation by a scientist, a tour, a Q & A period.

There is no charge for the event, but advance registration is required. Children age 10 and older are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Aztec World

2/1/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/1/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/1/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/1/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/1/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Monday, February 2, 2009

Astronomy Conversations

2/2/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/2/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/2/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/2/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/2/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/2/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Pre-K Morning Glories

2/2/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Under 5
Enjoy learning together with your preschooler in this weekly drop-in activity and storytime. Projects are fun, interactive, and encourage children’s curiosity towards plants. After you complete your project, be sure to stick around to dig for worms and bugs, play with our musical plant instruments, or help water our plants(interactives change weekly). Please note: No program will be held on these holidays-January 19 and February 16

Two of Us: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes!

2/2-2/23/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
"From head to toes our bodies need a lot of special care. Spend your Mondays in February practicing good exercise, diet and hygiene with some of your favorite fuzzy friends! Featured books will include Hokey Pokey Elmo by Abigail Tabby and Grover’s Guide to Good Eating by Naomi Kleinberg." Ages 2 to 6 years old


Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Astronomy Conversations

2/3/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/3/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/3/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/3/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Future of Creation: Foundations for a Just and Sustainable World

2/3/2009 06PM-09PM | Ages: Adults
How can faith and religion help us to respond to current and and future environmental crises? Come to the Zygon Center and hear leading scientists, biblical scholars and theologans suggest ways religious traditions can guide efforts in global sustainability. In this thought-provoking lecture series, community organizers also teach strategies to organize parishes and other communities to improve environmental stewardship.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/3/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Junior Science Cafe: The Unseen World

2/3/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: 9 and up
Living worlds exist that are invisible to the naked eye. How are scientists using the latest technology to visualize cells? Come enjoy dinner and learn more about one scientist's exploration of the cell through complex microscopes-find out how new technology is helping scientists see things that were impossible to see before, and get ready to be wowed by amazing pictures you've never dreamed of seeing before.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/3/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Astronomy Conversations

2/4/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/4/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/4/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/4/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Conservation of Ancient Egypt - Free Lecture

2/4/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: Adults
Tracing Roman Luxor Michael Jones, Associate Director, American Research Center in Egypt, Cairo Archaeologists and conservators are facing a critical issue in cultural heritage management: the sustainability of heritage and its display and presentation in the face of the inevitable changes constantly affecting the historic environment and its modern inhabitants. By focusing on the Luxor Temple, its rediscovery in the 19th century and transformation into a tourist venue, it becomes clear that modern Luxor owes much to the transformation of the temple into the core of a Roman legionary fortress during the reign of the Emperor Diocletian around the year 300 AD. In 2003, the American Research Center in Egypt, in collaboration with Chicago House, began an integrated project on the cleaning and conservation of the remaining murals painted in the Luxor Temple that decorate an imperial chamber at the heart of the 18th dynasty temple. Revealing the high quality of the paintings themselves, this project offered the chance to see them in the context of the political developments of the time. The latest results of this project will be included in the lecture which will also address the conservation issues now facing the newly cleaned paintings. For more information, contact the Oriental Institute Membership Office at 773-834-9777 or visit http://oi.uchicago.edu

Discovery Dig Wednesdays

2/4/2009 03PM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Children's Garden for an open exploration in our popular "dig pit." Each week, families have the chance to get their hands dirty by digging for dinosaur bones, planting pretend gardens, constructing a mini banana habitat, or any other number of rotating activities. Touchable plants and kid-friendly interactives will also be available during this time. Great for toddlers and elementary age children.

Groks Science Show for Campus Radio WHPK 88.5FM

2/4/2009 03PM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Tune your radio dial to University of Chicago radio station WHPK, 88.5FM every Wednesday from 3-4 p.m. for The Groks Science Show. Each show investigates topics in science in technology, including fun science facts, and features a roundup of current science news, interviews with scientists, technologists, and science authors. For more information visit the website www.groks.net or contact Charles C. Lee, Ph.D., Producer, Groks Science Show.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/4/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/4/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Ryerson Wednesdays Observing Sessions

2/4/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: All Ages
Enjoy the night sky! Observe planets, stars, and other objects in the night sky with members of the Ryerson Astronomical Society. The Society hosts weekly observing sessions with its antique telescope on the roof of Ryerson Physical Laboratories at the University of Chicago. People of all ages are welcome to attend. Observing is canceled if the sky is cloudy. NOT handicapped accessible. If Ryerson is locked, enter through Eckhart Hall (1118 E. 58th St.) next door and cross over to Ryerson on the 2nd floor. Follow the Ryerson stairs past the 3rd floor and walk up the spiral staircase, following the observatory signs. Questions call 563.676.1622 or email Joe Cottral jcottral@uchicago.edu. All ages. Free.


Thursday, February 5, 2009

Astronomy Conversations

2/5/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/5/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/5/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/5/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/5/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Junior Science Cafe: The Mystery at the Galactic Center -- A Supermassive Black Hole

2/5/2009 07PM-08PM | Ages: 9 and up
Dr. Roberts will discuss his research and discoveries related to his observations of the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way Galaxy. He will show how using data from radio telescopes, such as the Very Large Array in New Mexico, we can peer through the veil of gas and dust at the center of the Galaxy to glimpse what is happening around the mysterious black hole.

Nature Artists' Guild presents Peggy Macnamara; Watercolors

2/5/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: Adults
This is a lecture and demonstration by Peggy Macnanmara who will discuss her new book,'Architecture of Birds and Insects; A Natural Art' and the process of creating a book blending art and science.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/5/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Reluctant Mr. Darwin with author David Quammen, PhD

2/5/2009 07PM-08PM | Ages: Adults
February 12, 2009 is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, and October 1, 2009 is the 150th anniversary of the publication of On the Origin of Species. To commemorate the contribution Darwin and his book have made to our understanding of the world, we chose The Reluctant Mr. Darwin: An Intimate Portrait of Charles Darwin and the Making of His Theory of Evolution by David Quammen for this year’s One Book One Northwestern project.

for additional information visit http://www.northwestern.edu/onebook/about_the_book.html


Friday, February 6, 2009

Astronomy Conversations

2/6/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/6/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/6/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/6/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Dozin’ with the Dinos

2/6-2/7/2009 05PM-09AM | Ages: All Ages
Sue the T. Rex is having a sleepover! Join us for a night of family workshops, tours and performances and spread your sleeping bag amidst some of our most popular exhibitions. The event includes an evening snack and breakfast in the morning. Ages 6 to 12 years old

Far Out Friday

2/6/2009 04PM-10PM | Ages: All Ages
Participate in the International Year of Astronomy (IYA) celebration and enjoy the spectacle of the starry sky as you experience Far Out Fridays at the Adler Planetarium. Far Out Fridays in 2009 will feature IYA programming including educational activities for children and families, telescope viewing of the night sky, unlimited shows in the historic Sky Theater and the Definiti Space Theater, lectures by leading space science specialists and Adler astronomers, and Doane Observatory tours. Learn how to use your new or old telescope. Bring your telescope with you and Adler staff and volunteers will help you set it up and practice using it (weather permitting). February's Far Out Friday features guest lecturer and science journalist Robert Zimmerman at 7:00 pm presenting "The Hubble Space Telescope: An Idea That Would Not Die."

First Friday: Inge Fiedler, Conservation Microscopist

2/6/2009 12PM | Ages: All Ages
Inge Fiedler, Conservation Microscopist, discusses the technical study of Georges Seurat's A Sunday on La Grande Jatte -- 1884, painted between 1884 and 1886. Using an innovative technique commonly called 'pointillism,' Seurat, who preferred the term 'chromo-luminarism', created a masterpiece that still astonishes visitors today. Learn how it was created from someone who has examined the painting very, very closely.

Hamill Family Play Zoo Family Play Class - First Friends

2/6/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
Make a new friend each week during this 8-week series class. From cats and dogs to fish and birds, we'll learn about animal friends that your child is likely to see in your backyard, around the neighborhood or maybe in your house! Classes include movement, creative play, stories, art and songs. We'll have animal visitors in class, eat snack and take trips out in the park.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/6/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/6/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Saturday, February 7, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/7-5/3/2009 10AM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Astronomy Conversations

2/7/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/7/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Biology Today: Seminars on Current Research

2/7/2009 09AM-02PM | Ages: All Ages
High school students and their teachers are invited to attend this series of eight seminars delivered by University of Chicago faculty in the Biological Sciences. The seminars are offered one Saturday each month and cover current research performed in the faculty’s laboratories. Each seminar is followed by a meeting where teachers from Chicago private and public high schools share ideas on teaching science in classroom as well as laboratory settings. (STEP: Science Teachers Exchange Program) Advanced registration required. Call Beatrice Fineschi at: 773-834-4699. High school students and adults. Free.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/7/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Bunking with the Butterflies Overnight

2/7-2/8/2009 06PM-09AM | Ages: All Ages
Explore the Museum and its exhibitions after hours and take part in fun, hands-on science activities and games throughout the Museum. Rise early for breakfast and a visit to the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. Families, community groups, and scout troops with children (ages 6-11) can spend the night at the Museum. Must have at least one adult chaperones for every five children.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/7/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Construction Challenge

2/7/2009 07AM-06PM | Ages: 9 and up
You are cordially invited to round up 5 to 7 students in grades 6-12 to participate in the Chicago Regional Rally of the 2nd Annual Construction Challenge, sponsored by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. This innovative (national) career education initiative is designed to engage middle and high school youth (grades 9-12), in real-world, hands-on experiences exploring the 21st century construction industry through competitions in Manufacturing Design, Service Tech Simulation and Critical Infrastructure. Regional Rally competitions will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2009 throughout the U.S. and Canada, including: Chicago, Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Oklahoma, Phoenix, Sacramento, Seattle, and Toronto. The Chicago Regional Rally will be held at the Carpenter's Union Apprentice and Training Center, 2141 S Union Ave, Chicago IL (near Cermack and Halsted). The Prep Kit for Rally Challenges will include team preparation activities (including approximately 6-8 hours of team research) exploring Manufacturing Design, Service Tech Simulation and Critical Infrastructure. These preliminary activities will assist teams in gaining the competitive edge and background knowledge and skills needed to problem-solve, build, plan and/or create the hands-on challenge at the Regional Rally. Teams will compete in these three core areas and be scored according to the criteria of the challenge. Each challenge will be staged and set-up by Regional Rally staff and will include the materials and guidelines needed to address the criteria of the challenge. Sponsored by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) in partnership with Destination ImagiNation, the Construction Challenge is a multidisciplinary program that integrates technical preparation and career exploration while building upon standards-based school curriculum, to prepare students for both post-secondary education and technical training for entry into the 21st century construction workforce. Anyone may register as many teams as they desire comprised of 5 to 7 middle school and/or high school students accompanied by a supervising adult Team Manager who is at least 21 years old. Teams can be from neighborhoods, homeschool groups, community organizations, church youth groups, Boys and Girls clubs, afterschool program, schools, and any other interested group! Team Managers can be teachers, program advisors, parents or community leaders. Due to the overwhelming response to last year’s competition, you are strongly encouraged to register as early as possible. The prize pool is worth $75,000! Sound like fun but you don't have access to form a team? Then contact Diana Baldi dbaldi@constructionchallenge.org to volunteer to help create an outstanding experience for the participating youth.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/7/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Junior Prairie Rangers - Prairie Pin Session 1

2/7/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: 9 and up
Watch the prairie grow in your own home! Build two prairie plant terrariums from Fermilab seeds. Nurture them for 12 weeks and bring one back to Fermilab in May! Learn how you can become a certified Junior Prairie Ranger and have fun as a steward of the land! Attend all three Prairie Pin sessions for just $5.

Session 2 will take place May 2 and session 3 on June 27. It is encouraged, but not required, to attend all sessions.

Pharaohs Menagerie: The Science and Art of Animals in Ancient Egypt

2/7/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Adults
Zooarchaeology â€" the study of animal remains from ancient sites-is one of the most valuable tools for understanding ancient societies. From animal bones, archaeologists can learn about ancient diets, enviornemental history, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. Traditionally, archeologists have relied on the artistic record to learn about ancient animals and human-animal relationships. This class will introduce the animals of ancient Egypt using both science and art through a combination of laboratory activities,classroom lectures, slide shows and gallary visits. Three sessions will take place in the Zooarchaeology Laboratory of the Oriental Institute, where participants will have the rare, behind-the-scenes opportunity to examine ancient specimens and discuss ways archaeologists interpret the animal bones found at ancient sites.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/7/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Shedd Explorers

2/7/2009 01PM-03PM | Ages: 9 and up
Shedd Explorers is geared for students ages 11 to 14 who are energized by aquatic science and want to participate in exciting challenges, make new discoveries and get unique glimpses of Shedd.

Sweet Saturdays in February @ the Garfield Park Conservatory

2/7/2009 11AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Right here in Chicago, there is a place â€" the Garfield Park Conservatory - where an abundance of tropical treats literally grows on trees! Home to living sweets such as bananas, vanilla beans, cinnamon bark, and yes, chocolate trees, the Garfield Park Conservatory is a veritable plant-based candy show. Come join us one of three Saturdays in February (the 7th, the 14th, and the 21st) between 11 am and 4 pm to sample the facts, the flavors, and the fun of some of our most tantalizing tropical treats. This event is appropriate for any aged learner, including the kid, the adult, and the valentine variety. At each Sweet Saturday, you will get the chance to: · visit tropical treat stations found throughout the Conservatory, where you will learn a fact and sample a flavor · Participate in hands-on activity stations for all ages: - Design a scratch and sniff necklace with cinnamon and sandpaper - Design a “leaf rubbing” Valentine’s Day Card - Make a Chocolate Sachet with the sweet-smelling shells of cocoa beans


Sunday, February 8, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/8/2009-12/1/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Aztec World

2/8/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/8/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/8/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/8/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/8/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Monday, February 9, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/9/2009-12/2/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ARS/SCIENTIA: Structuring Change

2/9/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: 16 and up
Artist Inigo Manglano-Ovalle's technically sophisticated and formally elegant investigations employ forms and systems found in nature -- like clouds, icebergs and DNA -- to address issues ranging from immigration to cloning to gun violence and climate change He will converse with computational scientist Mark Hereld, Senior Fellow in the Computation Institute (Argonne National Laboratory and University of Chicago).

Astronomy Conversations

2/9/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/9/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/9/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/9/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/9/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/9/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Pre-K Morning Glories

2/9/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Under 5
Enjoy learning together with your preschooler in this weekly drop-in activity and storytime. Projects are fun, interactive, and encourage children’s curiosity towards plants. After you complete your project, be sure to stick around to dig for worms and bugs, play with our musical plant instruments, or help water our plants(interactives change weekly). Please note: No program will be held on these holidays-January 19 and February 16

Two of Us: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes!

2/9-3/2/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
"From head to toes our bodies need a lot of special care. Spend your Mondays in February practicing good exercise, diet and hygiene with some of your favorite fuzzy friends! Featured books will include Hokey Pokey Elmo by Abigail Tabby and Grover’s Guide to Good Eating by Naomi Kleinberg." Ages 2 to 6 years old


Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/10/2009-12/3/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Astronomy Conversations

2/10/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/10/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/10/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/10/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/10/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/10/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

National Geographic Live! at the Field

2/10/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: 16 and up
Biologist Zeb Hogan, Ph.D., leads the National Geographic Megafishes Project, a three-year effort to document the 20+ species of freshwater fish at least 6.5 feet in length or 220 pounds in weight. Registration required.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/10/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/11/2009-12/4/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Astronomy Conversations

2/11/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/11/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/11/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/11/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Discovery Dig Wednesdays

2/11/2009 03PM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Children's Garden for an open exploration in our popular "dig pit." Each week, families have the chance to get their hands dirty by digging for dinosaur bones, planting pretend gardens, constructing a mini banana habitat, or any other number of rotating activities. Touchable plants and kid-friendly interactives will also be available during this time. Great for toddlers and elementary age children.

Groks Science Show for Campus Radio WHPK 88.5FM

2/11/2009 03PM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Tune your radio dial to University of Chicago radio station WHPK, 88.5FM every Wednesday from 3-4 p.m. for The Groks Science Show. Each show investigates topics in science in technology, including fun science facts, and features a roundup of current science news, interviews with scientists, technologists, and science authors. For more information visit the website www.groks.net or contact Charles C. Lee, Ph.D., Producer, Groks Science Show.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/11/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/11/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/11/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Ryerson Wednesdays Observing Sessions

2/11/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: All Ages
Enjoy the night sky! Observe planets, stars, and other objects in the night sky with members of the Ryerson Astronomical Society. The Society hosts weekly observing sessions with its antique telescope on the roof of Ryerson Physical Laboratories at the University of Chicago. People of all ages are welcome to attend. Observing is canceled if the sky is cloudy. NOT handicapped accessible. If Ryerson is locked, enter through Eckhart Hall (1118 E. 58th St.) next door and cross over to Ryerson on the 2nd floor. Follow the Ryerson stairs past the 3rd floor and walk up the spiral staircase, following the observatory signs. Questions call 563.676.1622 or email Joe Cottral jcottral@uchicago.edu. All ages. Free.


Thursday, February 12, 2009

Trees of Life: A Celebration of the Life and Works of Charles Darwin.
Primate and Human Evolution: From Darwin and Huxley to the Present

2/12/2009 07PM-08PM | Ages: 16 and up
Kick off the winter blues and celebrate Darwin’s 200th birthday with The Morton Arboretum!

2009 marks the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth, and the 150th anniversary of the publication of The Origin of Species. In honor of Darwin’s tremendous contributions to science, The Morton Arboretum will be hosting a new lecture series, Trees of Life, in which scientists will discuss Darwin’s work in relation to their own work and the current state of evolutionary biology.

Join us on February 12 for an evening of discussion with Dr. Robert Martin, Curator of Biological Anthropology at the Morton Aboretum. In this opening lecture, Dr. Martin will explore the evolutionary relationships of humans and primates. He’ll discuss the development of the field of primate evolution, from Darwin’s works to the present day, share results from his own research, and answer questions about evolutionary biology.

Dr. Martin is a scientist of international reputation, widely recognized as a leader in both primate biology and the origin of humans, and the author of the widely acclaimed Primate Origins and Evolution, which is a standard textbook in biological anthropology.

Amazing Amphibians

2/12/2009-12/5/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Astronomy Conversations

2/12/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/12/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/12/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/12/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/12/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

In the Family Screens in Northfield

2/12/2009 06PM-09PM | Ages: All Ages
In the Family is a documentary film about predicting breast and ovarian cancer, the consequences of knowing, and the women who live with the risk. Beginning with her story of testing positive for the familial breast cancer mutation (BRCA), Filmmaker Joanna Rudnick chronicles the lives of several women currently undergoing the process of genetic testing â€" following them from their decision to seek testing, through the testing process, and in the aftermath when they are coming to terms with the information they receive. These stories of the first generation of women to live with the knowledge that they are predisposed to a life-threatening disease will teach us what it means to survive a diagnosis of high risk without being consumed or defined by it. They will help us to understand the psychological, legal, ethical, cultural and social complexities of genetic testing for a mutation, which affects the entire family, for which there is no cure, and wherein the only treatments currently available involve enormous quality-of-life sacrifices.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/12/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Our Planet and Its Life: Origins and Futures - President's Address

2/12/2009 06PM-08PM | Ages: Adults
James J. McCarthy, PhD, AAAS President and Alexander Agassiz Professor of Biological Oceanography at Harvard University

McCarthy's research interests relate to the regulation of plankton productivity in the sea and focus on regions that are strongly affected by seasonal and inter-annual variation in climate. He teaches courses on biological oceanography and biogeochemical cycles, marine ecosystems, and global change and human health, and oversees Harvard's program in Environmental Science and Public Policy. From 1982 until 2002, he was the director of Harvard's Museum of Comparative Zoology. McCarthy has served on and led many national and international groups charged with planning and implementing studies of global change, including as chair of the international scientific committee that establishes research priorities and oversees implementation of the International Geosphere - Biosphere Program; founding editor for the American Geophysical Union's Global Biogeochemical Cycles; co-chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Working Group II, which had responsibilities for assessing impacts of and vulnerabilities to global climate change for the Third IPCC Assessment; lead author of the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment; and vice-chair of the Northeast Climate Impacts Assessment. He received his Ph.D. degree from Scripps Institution of Oceanography and B.S. degree in biology from Gonzaga University.

The 2009 AAAS Annual Meeting, convening February 12-16, 2009 in Chicago, features an array of free public lectures by leading science luminaries as well as cutting-edge scientific sessions for registrants on topics ranging from global climate change to the origins of the universe. For more information, go to www.aaas.org/meetings/

Planet of the Arthropods

2/12/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Friday, February 13, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/13/2009-12/6/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Asleep with the Fishes Group Overnight

2/13-2/14/2009 06PM-08AM | Ages: All Ages
Join us for an overnight adventure at Shedd Aquarium. Immerse yourself in the many aquatic environments through special programs, games and hands-on activities. These programs are geared for children in kindergarten to grade 6.

Astronomy Conversations

2/13/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/13/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/13/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/13/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Hamill Family Play Zoo Family Play Class - First Friends

2/13/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
Make a new friend each week during this 8-week series class. From cats and dogs to fish and birds, we'll learn about animal friends that your child is likely to see in your backyard, around the neighborhood or maybe in your house! Classes include movement, creative play, stories, art and songs. We'll have animal visitors in class, eat snack and take trips out in the park.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/13/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/13/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/13/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Remarkable Creatures: Epic Adventures in the Search for the Origins of Species

2/13/2009 04PM-05PM | Ages: 16 and up
Sean B. Carroll, PhD Professor of Molecular Biology and Genetics at University of Wisconsin, Madison

Until recently, scientists studying evolution relied on fossil records and animal morphology to painstakingly piece together a picture of how animals evolved. Today, scientists are now using DNA evidence collected from modern animals to find new clues. Molecular biologist Sean Carroll focuses on the way new animal forms have evolved, and his studies of a wide variety of animal species have dramatically changed the face of evolutionary biology. Using genetics and the tools of molecular biology, he is looking back to the dawn of animal life some 600 million to 700 million years ago. Major discoveries from his laboratory have been featured in Time, US News & World Report, The New York Times, Discover, and Natural History. Dr. Carroll is author of The Making of the Fittest (2005) and Endless Forms Most Beautiful (2005). His most recent book, Remarkable Creatures: Epic Adventures in the Search for the Origins of Species, will be published in 2009. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a AAAS Fellow. He received his bachelor's degree at Washington University and his Ph.D. degree in immunology from Tufts University.

The 2009 AAAS Annual Meeting, convening February 12-16, 2009 in Chicago, features an array of free public lectures by leading science luminaries as well as cutting-edge scientific sessions for registrants on topics ranging from global climate change to the origins of the universe. The theme of the 2009 AAAS Annual Meeting will focus on "Our Planet and its Life: Origins and Futures." For more information, go to .

Sword-Swallowing Science and Improbable Research

2/13/2009 08PM-10PM | Ages: Adults
Improbable research is research that makes people LAUGH and then THINK, something the IL Science Council heartily supports! Improbable Research - the organization - collects, publicizes, and sometimes conducts improbable research. They also award the world-famous Ig Nobel Prizes. On February 13th, Improbable Research founder Marc Abrahams brings his terrific program to Chicago for the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He will review the past year's improbable research and Ig Nobel Prize winners. Several Ig winners (and/or colleagues) will try to explain what they did and why they did it, and will field questions. Participants include: * Swordswallowing and its side effects - Dan Meyer; * Science behind the 5-second rule - Jillian Clark & Meredith Agle; * World's quickest barbeque ignition (using liquid oxygen) - Joe Cychosz; * The periodic table table (in wood and elements) -Theo Gray; and others to be announced. The program will also include a special performance of the mini-opera "Atom & Eve" featuring Genevieve Thiers of Chicago's OperaModa company.


Saturday, February 14, 2009

A New Dinosaur-Eating Crocodile

2/14/2009 12PM-01PM | Ages: All Ages
Join University of Chicago paleontologist and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, Dr. Paul Sereno, to learn about A New Dinosaur-Eating Crocodile at the American Association for the Advancement of Science's Family Days.

AAAS Family Science Days

2/14/2009 11AM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
Stop by the Riverside Center Exhibit Hall at the Hyatt Regency Chicago between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, February 14 and 15, 2009 to take part in free, fun, hands-on science opportunities and hear a diverse range of scientists describe their amazing explorations. Family Science Days, part of the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) -- America's largest general science conference -- will feature exciting, interactive programming for children, and will include many leading Chicago-based science institutions. See the full schedule of stage shows and hands-on opportunities at http://www.aaas.org/meetings/fsd.

Family Science Days also will feature Meet the Scientists, a series of unique opportunities for young people to speak directly with top scientists who will explain what it takes to succeed in "cool science careers."

AAAS is the world's largest general scientific society and publisher of the journal, Science (www.sciencemag.org).

Parking:

The Hyatt Regency Hotel offers indoor valet parking in both towers, East and West. The garage closest to Family Science Days is the East Tower Garage at 151 E. Wacker (entrance on Stetson). More information is available here: http://chicagoregency.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/services/parking/?topic=

There are two other garages in the area, including the garage that serves the Illinois Center building. Families who park here should take the elevator to street level (push the Street Level button) and follow the signs towards the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

There is also metered street parking available on Stetson, subject to availability.

Amazing Amphibians

2/14/2009-12/7/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Astronomy Conversations

2/14/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/14/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Biology Today: Seminars on Current Research

2/14/2009 09AM-02PM | Ages: All Ages
High school students and their teachers are invited to attend this series of eight seminars delivered by University of Chicago faculty in the Biological Sciences. The seminars are offered one Saturday each month and cover current research performed in the faculty’s laboratories. Each seminar is followed by a meeting where teachers from Chicago private and public high schools share ideas on teaching science in classroom as well as laboratory settings. (STEP: Science Teachers Exchange Program) Advanced registration required. Call Beatrice Fineschi at: 773-834-4699. High school students and adults. Free.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/14/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/14/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Celebrating the Earth: Its Past, Our Present, a Future?

2/14/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: 16 and up
Susan W. Kieffer, PhD, Walgreen Endowed Chair of Geology and Physics at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

Planetary scientist Susan Kieffer has degrees in math, physics, geology, and planetary science, which is apparent in the interdisciplinary nature of her work. She is internationally renowned and a leading authority on the mechanisms of meteorite impact, geyser dynamics, volcanic eruptions, and river floods. She was the first scientist to describe the physics and chemistry involved in the eruptions on Jupiter's moon Io, the lateral blast associated with the eruption of Mt. St. Helens, the dynamics of Old Faithful as seen by a micro video camera lowered into the geyser between violent eruptions, and the hydraulics of the rapids of the Colorado River. With colleagues, she described the dynamics of the Chixculub meteor impact that caused vaporization of limestone, which resulted in massive amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and ultimately resulted in a major extinction event 65 million years ago. Kieffer is a member of the National Academy of Sciences, a MacArthur Fellow, and has received numerous awards and honors. She attended Caltech, University of Colorado, Boulder, and Allegheny College.

Charles Harrison: Industrial Designer, Inventor and Innovator

2/14/2009 03PM | Ages: All Ages
Charles Harrison, an industrial designer at Sears, Roebuck & Company for more than three decades, improved the quality of life of millions of Americans through the extraordinary breadth and innovation of his product designs. One of the first African Americans to enter the design field, Harrison began working for Sears in 1961 and eventually became the company’s Chief Designer. During his distinguished career, Harrison maintained an unwavering commitment to the needs of the average consumer, creating an astonishing 750 productsâ€"from radios and sewing machines to hair dryersâ€"for nearly every area of the home. Among his most iconic designs are the first-of-its-kind plastic garbage can, a lighter, more durable alternative to its metal counterpart; and a redesign of the now classic View-Master. Join Mr. Harrison for a discussion about his work and an exploration of the field of industrial design as a career path.

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - Kane County (St. Charles)

2/14/2009 09AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - North Lake County (Beach Park)

2/14/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/14/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Junior Science Cafe: Genetic Testing

2/14/2009 11AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up
Speaker Mike Kennedy, Ph.D., Director, Northwestern University Center for Genetic Medicine

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/14/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Meet the Scientists: Leon Lederman, "Science Is To Know the World in All Its Splendor"

2/14/2009 04PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

Leon Lederman, Nobel Prize Winner in Physics

Pritzker Professor of Science, Illinois Institute of Technology; and Director Emeritus, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory

Leon M. Lederman, internationally renowned high-energy physicist, is Director Emeritus of Fermilab in Batavia, Illinois and holds an appointment as Pritzker Professor of Science at the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago. He has served as President and Chairman of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, is a member of the National Academy of Science, and has received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science (1965), the Elliot Cresson Medal of the Franklin Institute (1976), the Wolf Prize in Physics (1982), the Nobel Prize in Physics (1988), the Enrico Fermi Prize given by President Clinton in 1993, the Abelson Prize of the AAAS (2000), the AIP Compton Medal for leadership in physics (2005), and the William Benton Medal for Distinguished Public Service (2008). Lederman has also worked tirelessly to improve science education. He is a founder and the inaugural Resident Scholar at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, a 3-year residential public high school for the gifted. He recently served as co-chair of the NSB Commission on 21st Century Education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Meet the Scientists: May Berenbaum, "Where Have All the Bees Gone? Why Should We Find Out?"

2/14/2009 03PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

May Berenbaum, Insect Scientist

Professor of Entomology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

Dr. May Berenbaum holds a bachelor’s degree in biology, from Yale University and a Ph.D. in ecology and evolutionary biology. Since 1980, she has been a member of the faculty of the Department of Entomology at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; she has served as head of the department since 1992. Among other accolades, she received the George Mercer award from the Ecological Society of America in recognition of her research on plant/insect interactions and the Founder’s Award from the Entomological Society of America in acknowledgment of her contributions to the science of entomology. She is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and a member of the National Academy of Sciences. In addition to her research, she is devoted to teaching and to fostering scientific literacy; she is the recipient of the 2006 Entomological Society of America Distinguished Teaching Award and has authored numerous magazine articles, as well as four books, about insects for the general public. She has also gained some measure of fame as the organizer of the Insect Fear Film Festival at the University of Illinois, an annual celebration of Hollywood's entomological excesses, entering its 26th year.

Meet the Scientists: Paul Sereno, "A New Dinosaur-Eating Crocodile"

2/14/2009 12PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

Paul Sereno, Paleontologist

Professor, University of Chicago; President and Cofounder, Project Exploration; and Explorer-in-Residence, National Geographic Society

Paul Sereno grew up in Naperville, a suburb of Chicago, and studied art and biology as an undergraduate at Northern Illinois University. He earned a doctorate in geology at Columbia University and the American Museum of Natural History in New York. In 1987, he joined the faculty of the University of Chicago, where he teaches paleontology and evolution to graduate and undergraduate students and human anatomy to medical students. Dr. Sereno has led expeditions to Inner Mongolia, North America, South America, Africa, India and Tibet. He is an Explorer-in-Residence with the National Geographic Society and has discovered and named more than a dozen new dinosaur species. Together with educator Gabrielle Lyon, he is cofounder of Project Exploration, a nonprofit dedicated to making science accessible to the publicâ€"especially minority youth and girlsâ€"through personalized experiences with science and scientists.

Pharaohs Menagerie: The Science and Art of Animals in Ancient Egypt

2/14/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Adults
Zooarchaeology â€" the study of animal remains from ancient sites-is one of the most valuable tools for understanding ancient societies. From animal bones, archaeologists can learn about ancient diets, enviornemental history, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. Traditionally, archeologists have relied on the artistic record to learn about ancient animals and human-animal relationships. This class will introduce the animals of ancient Egypt using both science and art through a combination of laboratory activities,classroom lectures, slide shows and gallary visits. Three sessions will take place in the Zooarchaeology Laboratory of the Oriental Institute, where participants will have the rare, behind-the-scenes opportunity to examine ancient specimens and discuss ways archaeologists interpret the animal bones found at ancient sites.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/14/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Sweet Saturdays in February @ the Garfield Park Conservatory

2/14/2009 11AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Right here in Chicago, there is a place â€" the Garfield Park Conservatory - where an abundance of tropical treats literally grows on trees! Home to living sweets such as bananas, vanilla beans, cinnamon bark, and yes, chocolate trees, the Garfield Park Conservatory is a veritable plant-based candy show. Come join us one of three Saturdays in February (the 7th, the 14th, and the 21st) between 11 am and 4 pm to sample the facts, the flavors, and the fun of some of our most tantalizing tropical treats. This event is appropriate for any aged learner, including the kid, the adult, and the valentine variety. At each Sweet Saturday, you will get the chance to: · Visit tropical treat stations found throughout the Conservatory, where you will learn a fact and sample a flavor · Participate in hands-on activity stations for all ages -Design a scratch and sniff necklace with cinnamon and sandpaper -Design a “leaf rubbing” Valentine’s Day Card -Make a Chocolate Sachet with the sweet-smelling shells of cocoa beans

Winter Wild About Weekend Classes at Hamill Family Play Zoo - Penguins On Parade

2/14/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
Get a waddling start and belly slide on over to our class about these endearing birds! We'll play, sing, create and take a stroll to visit the zoo's bunch of black and wihte bird friends that "fly" underwater. Under 5 - children 3-5 yrs. plus 1 adult


Sunday, February 15, 2009

A Neanderthal Perspective on Human Origins

2/15/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: 16 and up
Svante Pääbo, MD, PhD, Director, Department of Genetics at Max-Planck-Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany

A biologist specializing in evolutionary genetics, Svante Pääbo is known as one of the founders of paleogenetics, a discipline that uses the methods of genetics to study early humans and other ancient populations. He is conducting some of the most exacting work ever attempted on the DNA of human and nonhuman primates. His track record of discoveries began in 1985 when he isolated DNA from a 2,400-year-old Egyptian mummy. In 2006, after decoding fragments of DNA from the remains of Neanderthal, he announced plans to reconstruct the entire genome. In 1992, he received the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize of the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, which is the highest honour awarded in German research. Pääbo's department in August 2002 published findings about the evolution of the "language gene," FOXP2, which is lacking or damaged in some individuals with language disabilities. He was born in Stockholm and earned his Ph.D. degree from Uppsala University. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences.

AAAS Family Science Days

2/15/2009 11AM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
Stop by the Riverside Center Exhibit Hall at the Hyatt Regency Chicago between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, February 14 and 15, 2009 to take part in free, fun, hands-on science opportunities and hear a diverse range of scientists describe their amazing explorations. Family Science Days, part of the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) -- America's largest general science conference -- will feature exciting, interactive programming for children, and will include many leading Chicago-based science institutions. See the full schedule of stage shows and hands-on opportunities at http://www.aaas.org/meetings/fsd.

Family Science Days also will feature Meet the Scientists, a series of unique opportunities for young people to speak directly with top scientists who will explain what it takes to succeed in "cool science careers."

AAAS is the world's largest general scientific society and publisher of the journal, Science (www.sciencemag.org).

Parking:

The Hyatt Regency Hotel offers indoor valet parking in both towers, East and West. The garage closest to Family Science Days is the East Tower Garage at 151 E. Wacker (entrance on Stetson). More information is available here: http://chicagoregency.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/services/parking/?topic=

There are two other garages in the area, including the garage that serves the Illinois Center building. Families who park here should take the elevator to street level (push the Street Level button) and follow the signs towards the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

There is also metered street parking available on Stetson, subject to availability.

Amazing Amphibians

2/15/2009-12/8/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Aztec World

2/15/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/15/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/15/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/15/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/15/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Meet the Scientists: Greta Binford, "A Real-Life Spider Woman"

2/15/2009 02PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

Greta Binford, Spider Researcher

Assistant Professor of Biology, Lewis & Clark College

Greta Binford is an assistant professor of biology at Lewis & Clark College in Portland Oregon. Binford's research program uses integrative, evolutionary approaches to better understand patterns of diversity in spiders and their venoms. She has received numerous grants to support this work. The chemical richness and diversity of spider venoms make them interesting subjects for understanding how evolution generates novelty. In addition to her work in the lab, Binford has become a bit of a spider cult celebrity with profiles in the New Yorker (March 5, 2007), and multiple “expert” appearances on television shows and in magazines. She was also a set design consultant for the movie “Spiderman.”

Meet the Scientists: Juan Gilbert, "Hip-Hop Music and Math"

2/15/2009 01PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

Juan Gilbert, Computer Scientist

TSYS Distinguished Associate Professor of Computer Science and Software Engineering, Auburn University

Juan Gilbert is an associate professor in the Computer Science and Software Engineering Department at Auburn University where he directs the Human-Centered Computing Lab. He is the creator of Prime III, an innovative electronic voting system that allows people to cast their ballots using touch and/or voice. He received a Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Cincinnati. He is a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, ACM, American Society of Engineering Education, American Education Research Association, Coalition to Diversify Computing, and others. He is chair of the National Academy of Sciences 2006 Kavli Frontiers of Science Symposium. Gilbert has received the American Society for Engineering Education Minorities in Engineering Award, the Auburn University Alumni Outstanding Minority Achievement Award, Black Engineer of the Year Special Recognition Award, and was an invited participant in the National Academy of Engineering Frontiers of Engineering Symposium.

Meet the Scientists: Mark Hammergren, "Asteroids, Alien Life, and UFOs"

2/15/2009 04PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

Mark Hammergren, Astronomer

Director, Astro Science Workshop, Adler Planetarium

Dr. Mark Hammergren is Director of the Adler’s Astro Science Workshop, a challenging astronomy program for high school students that originated more than 40 years ago, sponsored by the Adler and the National Science Foundation. His research interests include asteroids, meteorites, impacts and mass extinctions, and the history and sociology of the flying saucer phenomenon. His wide-ranging interests and experience have led to his being a consultant on astronomy and UFO cults for the TV series CSI, forensic image analysis for the US Army, and for the ocean recovery of the first Russian commercial space capsule, during which he became the first Westerner to embark on a Russian Navy ship at sea.

Meet the Scientists: Mary Hennen, "Peregrine Falcons: Back from the Brink of Extinction"

2/15/2009 12PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

Mary Hennen, Bird Scientist

Bird Collections Assistant, Field Museum; and Director of the Chicago Peregrine Program

In addition to Mary Hennen’s regular duties of caring for the ornithological collections at the Field Museum, she assists with a study on Chicago migration; monitors nesting bluebirds; and runs the Chicago Peregrine Program. Hennen has been involved with the Peregrine Program since 1989 and took over as director in 1990. During this time period, Peregrine Falcons in Illinois have gone from a single breeding pair to approximately 12 pairs statewide. And in 2004, Peregrines have been reclassified and upgraded from an Endangered to a Threatened status on the state level. The Peregrine was removed from the U.S. Federal Endangered and Threatened Species List in 1999. Hennen’s work with Peregrines involves banding young, retrieving injured birds, and monitoring wild breeding pairs in Illinois. In addition, because of her interest in raptors, she has obtained a live, permanently disabled Red-tailed Hawk that she uses for educational programs. Always a critical part in the recovery of any species is public educational programming that focuses on the importance of the species, as well as its biology and role in the environment.

Meet the Scientists: Uwe Bergmann, "X-Ray Vision: Not Just for Superman Anymore"

2/15/2009 03PM | Ages: All Ages
Meet the Scientists is a fun way to learn about cool science jobs, talk to scientists about their work, and get your questions answered.

Uwe Bergmann, Physicist

Senior Staff Scientist in Physics, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

The privately-owned parchment document known as the Archimedes Palimpsest is the oldest and unique source of several of the great Greek scholar’s writings. With the help of an intense X-ray beam, Dr. Uwe Bergmann recently uncovered missing writings from some of Archimedes’ most important works that had been disguised by mold stains, biblical texts and forgeries. Bergmann was born in Karlsruhe, Germany, where he also did his undergraduate work. He received the German 'Diplom' in Hamburg and Ph.D. in physics at Stony Brook University. Since 1990 he has been an enthusiastic user of synchrotron radiation and has worked at numerous synchrotron facilities around the world. Bergmann joined SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in March 2003, where his research interests focus on the development and application of novel synchrotron-based X-ray techniques.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/15/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Monday, February 16, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/16/2009-12/9/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Astronomy Conversations

2/16/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/16/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/16/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/16/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Day Off at the Museum

2/16/2009 09AM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
Need something to do on that long, boring, never-ending day off of school? Discover some of the "gross" behaviors that help us identify animals through interactive, hands- on activities focused on animal tracking. Children, ages 6-8 and 9-12, will explore the Nature Museum and learn about animal tracks, use scientific collection techniques, and graph an animal’s territory to learn about its behavior.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/16/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/16/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/16/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Pre-K Morning Glories

2/16/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Under 5
Enjoy learning together with your preschooler in this weekly drop-in activity and storytime. Projects are fun, interactive, and encourage children’s curiosity towards plants. After you complete your project, be sure to stick around to dig for worms and bugs, play with our musical plant instruments, or help water our plants(interactives change weekly). Please note: No program will be held on these holidays-January 19 and February 16

Two of Us: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes!

2/16-3/9/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
"From head to toes our bodies need a lot of special care. Spend your Mondays in February practicing good exercise, diet and hygiene with some of your favorite fuzzy friends! Featured books will include Hokey Pokey Elmo by Abigail Tabby and Grover’s Guide to Good Eating by Naomi Kleinberg." Ages 2 to 6 years old


Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/17/2009-12/10/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Astronomy Conversations

2/17/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/17/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/17/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/17/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Feathery Friends

2/17/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: Under 5
Learn about the birds that stay in your neighborhood over winter. Have a feathery fun time playing games, reading bird books, going on a bird hike, and making a birdfeeder to take home. For a portion of the program, adults can participate in a mini-class to learn more about over-wintering birds and how to attract them to your backyard!

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/17/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/17/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/17/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/18/2009-12/11/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/18/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/18/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/18/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/18/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/18/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Changing the Face of Medicine: Celebrating America's Women Physicians

2/18-3/29/2009 07AM-05PM | Ages: All Ages
"Changing the Face of Medicine" is an interactive, multimedia traveling exhibition that honors the lives and achievements of American women in medicine -- past and present. The exhibit features stories from a rich diversity of women physicians from around the nation and highlights the broad range of medicine that women have practiced. Women physicians are found in every branch of medicine. They are family practitioners, researchers on the cutting edge of new medical discoveries, educators, surgeons, medical school directors and government officials.

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - North Cook County (Chicago)

2/18/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - Southeast Cook County (Homewood)

2/18/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org

Discovery Dig Wednesdays

2/18/2009 03PM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Children's Garden for an open exploration in our popular "dig pit." Each week, families have the chance to get their hands dirty by digging for dinosaur bones, planting pretend gardens, constructing a mini banana habitat, or any other number of rotating activities. Touchable plants and kid-friendly interactives will also be available during this time. Great for toddlers and elementary age children.

Groks Science Show for Campus Radio WHPK 88.5FM

2/18/2009 03PM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Tune your radio dial to University of Chicago radio station WHPK, 88.5FM every Wednesday from 3-4 p.m. for The Groks Science Show. Each show investigates topics in science in technology, including fun science facts, and features a roundup of current science news, interviews with scientists, technologists, and science authors. For more information visit the website www.groks.net or contact Charles C. Lee, Ph.D., Producer, Groks Science Show.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/18/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Junior Science Cafe: Lemurs of Madagascar

2/18/2009 07PM-08PM | Ages: 9 and up
Learn what it means to study primate behavior, specifically ring-tailed lemur behavior in Madagascar. In addition to collecting behavioral observations, fecal samples are collected to analyze hormone levels in relation to behavior. Susan Longest, from The University of Chicago, will discuss conservation in Madagascar in terms of the conservation status of primate species, as well as new species that have recently been discovered.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/18/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Our Variable Climate: Exploring the Past

2/18/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: Adults
Explore the variations in our global climate and weather patterns over history. Join meteorologist Rick Di Maio and learn how variations in past climates affected history, and how they compare to the variation seen today. Explore the climatic factors determining our modern landscape, ask what caused the Little Ice Age, and discover how La Niñas and El Niños changed shipping during the age of exploration.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/18/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Ryerson Wednesdays Observing Sessions

2/18/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: All Ages
Enjoy the night sky! Observe planets, stars, and other objects in the night sky with members of the Ryerson Astronomical Society. The Society hosts weekly observing sessions with its antique telescope on the roof of Ryerson Physical Laboratories at the University of Chicago. People of all ages are welcome to attend. Observing is canceled if the sky is cloudy. NOT handicapped accessible. If Ryerson is locked, enter through Eckhart Hall (1118 E. 58th St.) next door and cross over to Ryerson on the 2nd floor. Follow the Ryerson stairs past the 3rd floor and walk up the spiral staircase, following the observatory signs. Questions call 563.676.1622 or email Joe Cottral jcottral@uchicago.edu. All ages. Free.


Thursday, February 19, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/19/2009-12/12/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/19/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/19/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/19/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/19/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/19/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - South Cook County (Lemont)

2/19/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org.

Club Shedd

2/19/2009 06PM-08PM | Ages: 13 and up
Club Shedd is for high school students interested in aquatic science and the environment. Participants enjoy monthly meetings featuring presentations, environmental discussions, career exploration, local field trip opportunities and the camaraderie of students with similar interests. Requirements: Must be in 9th to 12th grade and at least 14 years old. Meetings are also on March 19, April 23, and May 16

Economics of Global Warming

2/19/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: Adults
Presented by Paul Solman, Business and Economics Correspondent for "The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer" The Economics of Global Warming Presented by Paul Solman, business and economics correspondent for The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer Is global warming going to kill us? Is a worldwide Greatest Depression going to save the day? Is the Obama Administration? Or it is already too late? Paul Solman considers the relevant science and market forces behind the price of fossil fuels and our turn toward green alternatives, green jobs, and greenhouse gas removal -- by hook or crook. This event is part of the AON Corporate Lecture Series. Cost: Free with Museum admission. To register email: rsilber(at)naturemuseum.org.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/19/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/19/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Lurie Garden Winter Lecture Series

2/19/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: Adults
Historian for the Chicago Park District, author of Garden in the City and co-author of Inspired by Nature: the Garfield Park Conservatory and Chicago’s West Side, Julia Bachrach will highlight the groundbreaking and inspired work of Jensen and Burnham and illustrate examples of their visionary work that one still enjoys today.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/19/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

The "Science" of Bookmaking

2/19/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: 5 and up
Artist Julie Fair will teach participants how to create their own books about African American scientists in this 60-minute program. In addition, participants will learn about different science careers and share their invention ideas. Reservations required.


Friday, February 20, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/20/2009-12/13/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/20/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/20/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/20/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/20/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/20/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Dozin’ with the Dinos

2/20-2/21/2009 05PM-09AM | Ages: All Ages
Sue the T. Rex is having a sleepover! Join us for a night of family workshops, tours and performances and spread your sleeping bag amidst some of our most popular exhibitions. The event includes an evening snack and breakfast in the morning. Ages 6 to 12 years old

Hamill Family Play Zoo Family Play Class - First Friends

2/20/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
Make a new friend each week during this 8-week series class. From cats and dogs to fish and birds, we'll learn about animal friends that your child is likely to see in your backyard, around the neighborhood or maybe in your house! Classes include movement, creative play, stories, art and songs. We'll have animal visitors in class, eat snack and take trips out in the park.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/20/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/20/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/20/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Saturday, February 21, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/21/2009-12/14/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

Artists and Authors presents: Vicky Strei

2/21/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
Come learn the art of puppeteering from construction to performance. Local puppeteer, Vicky Strei, will provide all the guidance and materials you need. All you have to bring is your imagination! Ages 4 to 10 years old

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/21/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/21/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/21/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Biology Today: Seminars on Current Research

2/21/2009 09AM-02PM | Ages: All Ages
High school students and their teachers are invited to attend this series of eight seminars delivered by University of Chicago faculty in the Biological Sciences. The seminars are offered one Saturday each month and cover current research performed in the faculty’s laboratories. Each seminar is followed by a meeting where teachers from Chicago private and public high schools share ideas on teaching science in classroom as well as laboratory settings. (STEP: Science Teachers Exchange Program) Advanced registration required. Call Beatrice Fineschi at: 773-834-4699. High school students and adults. Free.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/21/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Bridges to the Future for grades 4-6

2/21/2009 09AM-12PM | Ages: 9 and up
Develop engineering skills by using various materials to design, build and test several types of bridges. Learn the applications of each bridge and build bridges of your own. For children in grades 4-6. Print a registration form at our website.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/21/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Cabin Fever

2/21-2/22/2009 06PM-08AM | Ages: 5 and up
Spend some time sharing the wonders of winter with your family on an overnight designed especially for families. Pitch your tent, sans stakes, in the spacious Thornhill Auditorium; then gear up for a leisurely evening hike to Lake Marmo. After the hike, take a hands-on look at winter’s icy cool wonders using microscopes and hand lenses. Later, warm up by a fire with cocoa and s’mores. After a light breakfast the next morning, explore the early winter morning on a short hike. Supply list will be sent.

CANCELLED - Argonne National Laboratory: The Intrepid Super Computer

2/21/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: 13 and up
Intrepid, the IBM Blue Gene/P supercomputer at the Argonne Leadership Computing Facility, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most powerful instruments for scientific discovery. Capable of computing over 556 trillion arithmetic calculations per second, Intrepid debuted as the world’s fastest computer for unclassified (“open”) science. In fact, researchers around the world use the supercomputer daily to seek answers to some of our most daunting scientific problemsâ€"like finding global energy solutions and researching a cure for Parkinson’s disease. Please wear comfortable walking shoesâ€"sandals or open-toe shoes are not permitted. Reservations required 10 days in advance. Ages 13 and up. This is a walking and bus tour (2-½ hours). Capacity: 40.

Chicago River Student Congress

2/21/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
You are invited to the 2009 Chicago River Student Congress-“Connecting Communities.” This is a special conference where students have the chance to shine while learning more about the Chicago River and its watershed. Students will share their knowledge, experiences and enthusiasm with their peers and environmental professionals. Students attend informative workshops and view displays created by other students and by professionals from local non-profit and government agencies. This year’s Congress will highlight the Chicago River watershed and how we all play a vital roll improving the health of the river’s ecosystems, both upstream and downstream. Workshops and exhibits should focus on the students’ varied experiences improving water quality at the local level and how this translates to the entire watershed. Attend the Congress, present a workshop, exhibit a display, write a letter in support of better water quality, or just create river-related artwork or poetry.

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - Will County (Joliet)

2/21/2009 08AM-11AM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org

DuPage Area Engineers Week Expo

2/21/2009 11AM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
Future engineers and learners of all ages are encouraged to join in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the DuPage Area Engineers Week Expo. Free and open to the public, the Expo features everything from model airplanes and a wind tunnel exhibit, to lasers, robots, bicycle power, and hands-on activities with ZOOM, Design Squad, SCARCE, and the DuPage Children's Museum! Illinois Institute of Technology students are prepared to present and answer questions on their sustainability-related professional projects, providing further connections to this year's theme. New for 2009, the "Buildings to Shake-Rattle and Roll!" exhibit and presentation will allow participants to build and test their own building designs to destruction. The popular cryogenics display returns again to amaze onlookers with sub-zero science and surprises!

Engineering the Human Joint

2/21/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Visit University of Illinois at Chicago’s Department of Orthopedics for a rare look at the emerging technologies used to improve mobility and quality of life for patients who undergo joint replacement. Learn how doctors and engineers work together to build smart implants that are uniquely suited to a specific individual, and see firsthand the technology behind these state-of the art and personalized biomechanics. Ages 16 and up. This is a walking tour (2 hours). Please note: This tour features real joints in human cadavers. Participants will be required to sign an Acceptance of Risk Waiver and Release before the start of the tour. Participants under the age of 18 MUST have a parent or legal guardian present to sign the Waiver. Participants are also invited to an optional, additional session where surgeons and residents will discuss Case Studies in Pediatric Orthopedics, 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM. Capacity: 25.

Feathery Friends

2/21/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: Under 5
Learn about the birds that stay in your neighborhood over winter. Have a feathery fun time playing games, reading bird books, going on a bird hike, and making a birdfeeder to take home. For a portion of the program, adults can participate in a mini-class to learn more about over-wintering birds and how to attract them to your backyard!

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/21/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

It's A Material World

2/21/2009 01PM-04PM | Ages: 13 and up
Come learn about the cutting edge in materials research directly from the people who are making discoveries where the disciplines of materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering and nanoscience intersect. Northwestern University Materials Research Science and Engineering Center researchers will explain their work and its relevancy to society, and showcase state-of-the-art research equipment used in the forefront of scientific discovery.

Junior Science Café: Take Flight With An Engineer: The Science of Airplanes and Rockets

2/21/2009 01PM-02PM | Ages: 9 and up
Learn about the physics and aerodynamics of how rockets and airplanes work! Ade Gordon, an engineer at Northrop Grumman, will talk about the work he did on an experimental aircraft at NASA as well as an aircraft he is now working on at Northrop Grumman. Discover what it is like being an engineer in the aerospace and defense industry and discuss what it really takes to become an engineer!

Junior Science Cafe: What's Next In Genetics?

2/21/2009 11AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/21/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Lurie Garden Hands-on Family Workshop: That Smells....Great!

2/21/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Discover the role of herbs in the Lurie Garden and explore how different cultures have used them; then make a few herbal surprises to take away.

Mini-Medical School

2/21/2009 08AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a doctor or medical researcher? Do you know what it takes to gain admittance to one of the top medical schools in the country? High school students are invited to join a full day of interactive sessions featuring mini-lectures, film segments, and guided, hands-on opportunities to explore the anatomy, physiology, and behavioral concept of the heart, blood, and vasculature with University of Chicago faculty, medical students and community volunteer lecturers. Small group sessions will highlight the skills required for successful completion of high school, collegiate work, and strategies for becoming a successful medical school applicant. The program will establish the value of group cooperation in learning and using peer support to achieve excellence. Capacity: 150. Call Nikeela Oliver at 773-702-8946 to register. High school students. Free. Ages 14-18

Open Wide: Innovations in Dentistry

2/21/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up
Ever wonder how those weird-looking tools at the dentist’s office are made? Hu-Friedy is the world’s leading manufacturer of the handheld dental instruments that play a vital role in keeping our mouths healthy. You’ll see upclose how each precision tool is made through a combination of chemical processing, handcrafting and innovative robotic technology. Ages 12 and up. This is a walking tour (1 hour). Capacity: 20.

Pharaohs Menagerie: The Science and Art of Animals in Ancient Egypt

2/21/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Adults
Zooarchaeology â€" the study of animal remains from ancient sites-is one of the most valuable tools for understanding ancient societies. From animal bones, archaeologists can learn about ancient diets, enviornemental history, and the relationship between humans and the natural world. Traditionally, archeologists have relied on the artistic record to learn about ancient animals and human-animal relationships. This class will introduce the animals of ancient Egypt using both science and art through a combination of laboratory activities,classroom lectures, slide shows and gallary visits. Three sessions will take place in the Zooarchaeology Laboratory of the Oriental Institute, where participants will have the rare, behind-the-scenes opportunity to examine ancient specimens and discuss ways archaeologists interpret the animal bones found at ancient sites.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/21/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

PUBLIC SYMPOSIUM: A Mummy Comes to Life: Science and Art Resurrect an Ancient Egyptian

2/21/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: Adults
Co-sponsored by the Chicago Chapter of the American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE)
Two thousand years ago, an ancient Egyptian priestess named Meresamun was mummified and then buried in a beautifully painted coffin in the belief that this process would allow her spirit and story to live forever. This daylong symposium, presented in conjunction with the special exhibit “The Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer of Ancient Egypt,” offers the rare opportunity to discover how Egyptologists, art historians, and forensic scientists have joined forces to reveal the life story of an individual ancient Egyptian in ways never before presented by an American museum.
Explore ways the latest research reveals that ancient Egyptian women enjoyed legal and economic rights that are still denied to many women today. Encounter Meresamun face-to-face as scientific data gleaned from her mummy provide answers to a whole host of questions about her life. Learn how the University of Chicago Hospitals used the latest CT technology to reconstruct her physical appearance in ways that will make Meresamun truly live again.
Pre-registration is required. Call 773-702-9507 or register online. Special benefit for teachers: 6 CPDUs.
A limited number of elementary and high school teachers may enroll at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration is required for this special benefit. To register, contact Museum Education at 773-702-9507.

SCI: Swedish Covenant Investigations

2/21/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: 13 and up
Take a unique behind-the-scenes tour through Swedish Covenant Hospital’s department of laboratory medicine. Meet board certified physicians that specialize in areas including chemistry, biology, pathology and microbiology. Don’t miss this unique tour full of fascinating technology and riveting visuals! Ages 12 and up. This is a walking tour (1 hour). Capacity: 20.

Secrets of Collections: X-rays

2/21/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
An x-ray is a picture that can show us the inside of an object. X-rays can help doctors find broken bones, security guards see the inside of luggage and scientists learn about the past. Come and compare x-rays of shells, rabbits, birds, and even people to the real thing! Ages 2 to 6 years old

So You Want To Be An Astronomer

2/21/2009 10AM-04PM | Ages: 9 and up
In this Saturday science program, families are invited to step into the shoes of modern and historical astronomers, and learn the tools and practices of astronomy while learning from distinguished Chicago scientists about thrilling recent discoveries and insights into the universe. The day will begin with an introduction to the night sky as observed by the naked eye inside of our historic sky theater. This is followed by an introduction, using Adler's world class collection, to the beginning of astronomy, the Gallelean telescope. Visitors will assemble a telescope from simple lenses and look thorugh historic replicas to understand the workings of early telescopes. Curators will be on hand to answer questions about the impact of telescopes on human history and science and introduce the visitors to other tools of astronomy. Following this introduction, visitors will go to our working observatory to make safe solar observations using our .5 meter telescope. Following lunch, we will engage visitors in modern astronmy. World leaders in modern astronomy from the Kavli Institute of Cosmological Physics at the University of Chicago will use contemporary computer visualization technology to show visitors how astronomy has progressed in since Einstein and Hubble and take visitors on a 3D tour of the universe as we understand it. The culmination of the day is family participation in a genuine research project, categorizing distant galaxies. Ages 8 and up

SOLD OUT - Geocaching: Oak Brook Preserves

2/21/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
Experience treasure hunting for today’s tech-savvy explorers. Geocaching is an adventure game for Global Positioning System (GPS) users to cache and find locations with actual hidden items. Using a GPS device, you’ll explore the outdoor environment while learning about geographic coordinates and satellite technology. Geocaching experts will be on hand to help guide you as well as provide a history of geocaching and the many everyday uses of GPS technology. GPS devices will be provided for use on this tour. All ages. This is an outdoor walking tour (2-1/2 hours). Capacity: 40.

SOLD OUT: Imaging the Future

2/21/2009 12PM-01PM | Ages: All Ages
Visit University of Illinois at Chicago’s Electronic Visualization Laboratory, which combines art, networking technologies and computer science for interactive modeling, imaging capabilities and the creation of virtual realities. Such technologies allow people to experience something as small as an atom or as large as the cosmosâ€"all from varying perspectivesâ€"to solve critical questions about everything from our health to our universe. Ages 12 and up. This is a walking tour (1.5 hours). Capacity: 25.

SOLD OUT: Meteorological Marvels

2/21/2009 10AM-02PM | Ages: All Ages
If you’ve ever wondered how meteorologists “predict” the weather, you’ll be blown away by this inside view of the Chicago Weather Forecast Office. Find out how a Doppler radar works. See how meteorologists monitor weather, issue a variety of forecasts, including severe weather warnings, and disseminate this potentially lifesaving information. All Ages. This is a walking tour (1 hour). Capacity: 20.

Solving Global Energy Challenges

2/21/2009 09AM-11PM | Ages: All Ages
From wellhead to burner tip, technological advancements produced by Gas Technology Institute are at the vanguard of how America will secure an economic, sustainable, reliable, clean energy future. For an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at commercial R&D activities in the critical area of energy supply, tour some of the 28 specialized laboratories and facilities on the GTI campus. Learn how GTI researchers and scientists develop and test advanced energy technologies such as laser-based applications for energy exploration and production, and gasification processes used to convert solid fuels to a useable gas. Ages 12 and up. This is a walking tour (1 hour). Capacity: 12.

Sweet Saturdays in February @ the Garfield Park Conservatory

2/21/2009 11AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Right here in Chicago, there is a place â€" the Garfield Park Conservatory - where an abundance of tropical treats literally grows on trees! Home to living sweets such as bananas, vanilla beans, cinnamon bark, and yes, chocolate trees, the Garfield Park Conservatory is a veritable plant-based candy show. Come join us one of three Saturdays in February (the 7th, the 14th, and the 21st) between 11 am and 4 pm to sample the facts, the flavors, and the fun of some of our most tantalizing tropical treats. This event is appropriate for any aged learner, including the kid, the adult, and the valentine variety. At each Sweet Saturday, you will get the chance to: · visit tropical treat stations found throughout the Conservatory, where you will learn a fact and sample a flavor · Participate in hands-on activity stations for all ages -Design a scratch and sniff necklace with cinnamon and sandpaper -Design a “leaf rubbing” Valentine’s Day Card -Make a Chocolate Sachet with the sweet-smelling shells of cocoa beans


Sunday, February 22, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/22/2009-12/15/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/22/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Aztec World

2/22/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/22/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/22/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/22/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/22/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/22/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Monday, February 23, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/23/2009-12/16/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ARS/SCIENTIA: Pushing the Boundaries of Biology + Genetics

2/23/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: 16 and up
Artist Eduardo Kac captured the world's imagination with a glowing fluorescent bunny and introduced the concept of "bio-art", while Alison Ruttan's drawings and films of bonobo apes led to surprising recognition that the creation of "hairstyles" may be as much a marker of intelligence as are signs of tool-making. The artists will be joined by behavioural biologist Dr. Dario Maestripieri (University of Chicago) and plant biologist Dr. Neil Olsziewski (University of Minnesota). Join them for an interactive salon between artists and scientists.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/23/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/23/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/23/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/23/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/23/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/23/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/23/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/23/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Pre-K Morning Glories

2/23/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Under 5
Enjoy learning together with your preschooler in this weekly drop-in activity and storytime. Projects are fun, interactive, and encourage children’s curiosity towards plants. After you complete your project, be sure to stick around to dig for worms and bugs, play with our musical plant instruments, or help water our plants(interactives change weekly). Please note: No program will be held on these holidays-January 19 and February 16


Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/24/2009-12/17/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/24/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/24/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/24/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/24/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/24/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Dark Side of the Universe: Dark Matter and Dark Energy

2/24/2009 05PM-07PM | Ages: Adults
Cosmologists are making ever more precise measurements of the Universe and have found that they know almost precisely nothing about what it is made of. Only one percent of the Universe is made of the kind of everyday matter that can be seen with telescopes--the stars, the planets, us. Another 3.5 percent is made of hot gas that can only be seen with X-ray instruments. The rest is a complete mystery: 24 percent is dark matter whose gravity holds our galaxy together, and the remaining 71 percent is dark energy, whose repulsive gravity is causing the expansion of the Universe to speed up, not slow down as expected. Three prominent scientists--astronomer Rocky Kolb, particle physicist Joe Lykken, and cosmologist Michael Turner--discuss what we know about the nature of dark matter and dark energy. They discuss the roles of particle accelerators and telescopes in solving the mystery of the unseen 96 percent the Universe. They conclude by explaining what all, this means for our understanding of the elementary particles and the fate of the Universe.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/24/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/24/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/24/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/25/2009-12/18/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/25/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/25/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/25/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/25/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/25/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Discovery Dig Wednesdays

2/25/2009 03PM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Children's Garden for an open exploration in our popular "dig pit." Each week, families have the chance to get their hands dirty by digging for dinosaur bones, planting pretend gardens, constructing a mini banana habitat, or any other number of rotating activities. Touchable plants and kid-friendly interactives will also be available during this time. Great for toddlers and elementary age children.

Groks Science Show for Campus Radio WHPK 88.5FM

2/25/2009 03PM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Tune your radio dial to University of Chicago radio station WHPK, 88.5FM every Wednesday from 3-4 p.m. for The Groks Science Show. Each show investigates topics in science in technology, including fun science facts, and features a roundup of current science news, interviews with scientists, technologists, and science authors. For more information visit the website www.groks.net or contact Charles C. Lee, Ph.D., Producer, Groks Science Show.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/25/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/25/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Our Variable Climate: Exploring the Present

2/25/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: Adults
What causes the fluctuations in our present global climate and weather patterns, and what do those variations mean for the future? Join meteorologist Rick Di Maio to explore the processes leading to the weather and climate patterns we experience every day and ask how our climate will change in the future.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/25/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Ryerson Wednesdays Observing Sessions

2/25/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: All Ages
Enjoy the night sky! Observe planets, stars, and other objects in the night sky with members of the Ryerson Astronomical Society. The Society hosts weekly observing sessions with its antique telescope on the roof of Ryerson Physical Laboratories at the University of Chicago. People of all ages are welcome to attend. Observing is canceled if the sky is cloudy. NOT handicapped accessible. If Ryerson is locked, enter through Eckhart Hall (1118 E. 58th St.) next door and cross over to Ryerson on the 2nd floor. Follow the Ryerson stairs past the 3rd floor and walk up the spiral staircase, following the observatory signs. Questions call 563.676.1622 or email Joe Cottral jcottral@uchicago.edu. All ages. Free.


Thursday, February 26, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/26/2009-12/19/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/26/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/26/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/26/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/26/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/26/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - McHenry County (Crystal Lake)

2/26/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org

Chicago Wilderness Calling Frog Survey Spring 2009 - South Lake County (Deerfield)

2/26/2009 07PM-09PM | Ages: 13 and up
At the workshop, volunteers will learn the calls of 13 native frog and toad species â€" including the deep, resonant “rrr-uuum” of the bullfrog; the banjo pluck “boink” of the green frog; the sleighbells chorus of the spring peeper; and the loud, rattling snore and chuckle of the Northern leopard frog.

During three breeding times a year, between March and July, frog monitors spend an hour after sunset at a designated site listening and recording the sounds of the ancient mating ritual of frogs and toads.

The data is compiled by the Habitat Project in order to create a picture of long-term trends in amphibian abunchance and distribution. The data, which has been collected since 2000, is used to guide conservation planning and land management decisions.

Frogs and toads are considered indicator species, meaning that they signal environmental stress earlier than most organisms due to their thin, permeable skins. The health of a wetland ecosystem can be determined by the health and abundance of its frog population, so the work of frog monitors is critical to read the pulse of our region’s unique natural communities.

For additional information, visit www.habitatproject.org

Great Conversations: The Beauty of Science ; At the Crossroads of Organ Transplantation and Medical Ethics: A Century of Innovation at the University of Chicago

2/26/2009 05PM-07PM | Ages: Adults
The fifth and final Great Conversation in our 2008-2009 series will feature Mark Siegler, the Lindy Bergman Distinguished Service Professor in the Department of Medicine and the Department of Surgery, and the Director of the MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics at the University of Chicago. Dr. Siegler will be discussing the exciting and extraordinary history of breakthroughs in organ transplants. Entire lecture series: 9/25, 10/23, 12/4; 1/29, 2/26

High School Lake Ecology

2/26/2009 05PM-06PM | Ages: 13 and up
High School Lake Ecology provides high school students the adventure of life on the open water while exploring aquatic science and the Great Lakes ecosystem. Participants will live and work aboard the Denis Sullivan, a 137-foot schooner, while sailing on Lake Michigan. This program is available to students in the following Illinois counties: Cook, Lake, McHenry, Kane, DuPage, Kendall, Will, Grundy and Kankakee. Applications are due by Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009

High School Marine Biology

2/26/2009 05PM-06PM | Ages: 13 and up
Shedd’s High School Marine Biology Program is designed for the student who wants to explore marine science as a possible career. Students are introduced to marine biology and the scientific method in a classroom setting at Shedd Aquarium and then apply this knowledge by conducting research in the Bahamas on Shedd's live-aboard vessel, the R/V Coral Reef II. This program is available to students in the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Michigan and Wisconsin. View application at http://www.sheddaquarium.org/pdf/education/edu_HSLE-HSMB_2009application.pdf

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/26/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/26/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/26/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Friday, February 27, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

2/27/2009-12/20/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/27/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/27/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/27/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/27/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/27/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Chasing Cosmic Bullets: The Pierre Auger Observatory

2/27/2009 08PM-10PM | Ages: 13 and up
The most energetic particles in the universe are ultra-high energy cosmic rays. Millions of times more powerful than anything produced by man-made accelerators, their origin has been a mystery. The Pierre Auger Observatory, spread over 3,000 square kilometers in western Argentina, has been detecting these rare particles for the last several years. Scientists working on Auger have been solving the mysteries of where they come from, what they are made of, and how they are accelerated.

Dr. Angela V. Olinto is a professor in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Chicago, where she is also a member of the Enrico Fermi Institute and the Kavli Institute for Cosmological Physics. Her research interests are in theoretical astrophysics, particle and nuclear astrophysics, and cosmology. Her recent work has focused on the highest energy cosmic rays, indirect signatures of particle dark matter, cosmological effects of magnetic fields, and the internal structure of neutron.

First Flight Butterfly Releases

2/27/2009 02PM | Ages: All Ages
Come to the Museum's Judy Istock Butterfly Haven every day at 2 p.m. and watch a butterfly take its first flight!

FIRST Robotics - Midwest Regional Competition

2/27/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
FIRST Robotics Competition is a dynamic program that inspires our youth by partnering high school students with technical and business mentors to design and build a highly functional robot for serious competition in just six short weeks.

Join the Lunacy as the teams compete in their new game which celebrates the 40th anniversary of the landing on the moon. Free admission - come at any time.

Hamill Family Play Zoo Family Play Class - First Friends

2/27/2009 09AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
Make a new friend each week during this 8-week series class. From cats and dogs to fish and birds, we'll learn about animal friends that your child is likely to see in your backyard, around the neighborhood or maybe in your house! Classes include movement, creative play, stories, art and songs. We'll have animal visitors in class, eat snack and take trips out in the park.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/27/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Let's Go Science Show

2/27/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: All Ages
The Let's Go Science Show is a wacky look at "how things work" with Professor Smart and Ms. Knowitall. This fun-filled production teaches physics concepts through theatrically based experiments and demonstrations. Get ready for lots of audience interaction with these two legends of the circus! Great scenery and awesome lighting and illusions make this one science lesson that students won't want to miss!

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/27/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

2/27/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Saturday, February 28, 2009

A New Angle Structure Workshop

2/28/2009 01PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
Teams tackling the Destination ImagiNation structure Challenge, "A New Angle" are invited to meet the Challenge Master, see the tournament site, and get hands-on experience with the structure weigh-in procedure, weights, and the Tester.

Amazing Amphibians

2/28/2009-12/21/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

2/28/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

2/28/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Aztec World

2/28/2009 09AM-05PM | Ages: Adults
Trace the rise and fall of the Aztec world and explore the grandeur one of the world’s greatest civilizations, exclusively at The Field Museum.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

2/28/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

2/28/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Career Day for Girls

2/28/2009 09AM-03PM | Ages: 13 and up
Come join us for Northwestern's 38th annual, "Career Day for Girls," program on February 28, 2009. The purpose of Career Day is to provide an opportunity to expose girls in grades 6th-12th to the different areas of engineering and the opportunities they can offer as a potential career. The day consists of a keynote speaker, lab tours, a hand's-on mini design competition and Q & A panels with female engineers. Please feel free to contact Ellen Worsdall, e-worsdall@northwestern.edu or 847-491-5173 for additional information.

DI Tournament Appraiser Orientation

2/28/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: Adults
Get ready to be WOW'ed by the solutions that teams of students have been preparing for several months. You will review one of the current curriculum-based Challenges and learn how our teams of Appraisers evaluate Regional, State-Wide, and Global competitions. You will receive training on either a scoring or non-scoring Appraiser role, based on your preferences. No prior experience necessary, just bring your child-friendly nature and love of science, theater, and innovation!

Evolving Science at The Field featuring Dr. Gary Feinman, Curator, The Field Museum

2/28/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: Adults
A leader in archaeological field research, Feinman has led excavations in Oaxaca, Mexico for over 30 years. Hear about his latest finds from excavations of prehispanic houses at El Palmillo, a large hilltop terrace site in the eastern Valley of Oaxaca.

FIRST Robotics - Midwest Regional Competition

2/28/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
FIRST Robotics Competition is a dynamic program that inspires our youth by partnering high school students with technical and business mentors to design and build a highly functional robot for serious competition in just six short weeks.

Join the Lunacy as the teams compete in their new game which celebrates the 40th anniversary of the landing on the moon. Free admission - come at any time.

Flyin' Raptors

2/28/2009 01PM-02PM | Ages: 5 and up
Enter the fascinating world of hawks and owls as you meet these birds up close and in person! Learn about the types of raptors, or birds of prey, that live at the Arboretum and in your neighborhoods. Start inside; then take a walk outside to view these beautiful birds in flight! Observe first- hand the gentle soaring of a hawk, the head-first dive of a falcon, and the pounce of an owl. The raptors available to view will include a Red-Tailed Hawk, Barred Owl, Screech Owl, Barn Owl, Great Horned Owl, Peregrine Falcon, and an American Kestrel. At the end of the program, enjoy hot cocoa and a chance to ask questions of the raptor handlers.

Frog Feedings

2/28/2009 01PM-02PM | Ages: All Ages
Feast with the frogs every Saturday from February 7 â€" May 2 at 1 p.m. and learn about a frog’s favorite food! Even share a meal with your new amphibian friends!

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

2/28/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Lego Engineering Juniors for grades 4-5

2/28/2009 09AM-12PM | Ages: 9 and up
For the junior engineers. Learn mechanical and architectural principles building with Legos. Then test your structures. Instructors will demonstrate principles and help you try new strategies based upon what you learn. For children in grades 4-6. Print a registration form at our website.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

2/28/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Otter Kinds of Play

2/28/2009 10AM-11AM | Ages: All Ages
No one can play like an otter can although most kids can match them leap for leap, hop for hop, and twist for turn! Join us and see if you can keep pace with these energetic mammals and learn more about how other animals play. Under 5 - children 3-5 yrs. plus 1 adult

Planet of the Arthropods

2/28/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Tropical Tableware: Family Make-and-Take Activity

2/28-3/1/2009 01PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
Make a plant project and take it home while learning something new about plants! Projects take 15-20 minutes to complete. Drop in anytime before 2:45. (Project will take place near the giant seed in the Children's Garden.) This weekend's project: Tropical Tableware-Get an up close look at a banana leaf and discover how a banana plant fruits and flowers. After, weave banana leaves together to make a unique placemat for your dinner table.


Sunday, March 1, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

3/1/2009-12/22/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

An Afternoon with Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman - SOLD OUT!!!

3/1/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: 9 and up
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT. For seven seasons, MythBusters Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman have tested urban legends using the principles of the scientific method on their popular Discovery Channel show of the same name.

You’ve watched them on TV. Now, see them in person right here at a very special Science Chicago event for fans of all ages. Adam and Jamie will share stories, show video highlights and explain some of the behind-the-scenes antics and the science behind some of the myths they’ve busted. Here is your opportunity to find out more about how they choose their topics and test their hypotheses. Just as important, you’ll learn what keeps them going when things don’t work out as planned.

Select audience members will have the opportunity to ask Adam and Jamie questions directly during a question-andanswer period. Advance registration required. Recommended for ages 9 an up. Tickets start at $35.

Ask-a-Scientist - "Neutrino Research at Fermilab"

3/1/2009 01PM-04PM | Ages: 13 and up
"Neutrino Research at Fermilab" will be presented by Fermilab scientist Stephen Parke. He will talk about neutrinos, the ghosts of the universe.

Take your physics questions straight to experts. The first Sunday of each month, physicists answer questions and explain everything from the Big Bang to how a particle accelerator works. Each three-hour session includes a presentation by a scientist, a tour, and a Q & A period.

There is no charge for the event, but advance registration is required. Children age 10 and older are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

3/1/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Black Creativity 2009: Green Revolution

3/1/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Green Revolution explores green technology and innovation and features African-American architects, designers, engineers and business leaders in the green movement. Bring your family to see some of the latest innovations in renewable energy, organic agriculture and sustainable building, while trying your hand a fun activities like testing soil samples, building a playground from recycled materialsâ€"and more.
Black Creativity includes a juried art exhibition, a family day, educational workshops, special events and more. Green Revolution is part of the Museum's annual Black Creativity celebration, a six-week program that highlights the achievements and heritage of African Americans in science, technology and the arts.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

3/1/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

Gallery Drawing Station: Exploring Landscape around the World

3/1-3/29/2009 01PM-03PM | Ages: 5 and up
Observe the shapes, colors, and textures of hills, trees, and sky through works of art. Then, create your own landscape drawing, inspired by works of art in the galleries.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

3/1/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

3/1/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

3/1/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.


Monday, March 2, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

3/2/2009-12/23/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

3/2/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

3/2/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

3/2/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

3/2/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

3/2/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

3/2/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.

Pre-K Morning Glories

3/2/2009 10AM-12PM | Ages: Under 5
Enjoy learning together with your preschooler in this weekly drop-in activity and storytime. Projects are fun, interactive, and encourage children’s curiosity towards plants. After you complete your project, be sure to stick around to dig for worms and bugs, play with our musical plant instruments, or help water our plants(interactives change weekly). Please note: No program will be held on these holidays-January 19 and February 16


Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Amazing Amphibians

3/3/2009-12/24/1999 09AM | Ages: All Ages
Experience an interactive exhibition that offers a rare glimpse of frogs, salamanders, caecilians and other creatures that make up class Amphibia. Zipline through a make-shift rainforest and learn how these cold-blooded species adapt to their surroundings. Travel through an interactive maze testing your knowledge on metamorphosis, extinction and everything else amphibian. Take one giant leap toward gaining a sense of familiarity with amphibians and understanding how they live.

ASM Materials Camp - Registration

3/3/2009 08AM-12PM | Ages: 16 and up
The Chicago Regional Chapter of ASM is sponsoring a hands-on introduction to engineering, ASM Materials Camp. We are looking for students entering their junior or senior year of high school this fall to enroll in our award winning program. This year’s FREE camp will be held the week of June 22 â€" 27 and the host site is IIT where the students meet on Monday, Thursday & Saturday. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday they will be assigned to a team and a business or university that specializes in forensic science. During this time they will be given a project with the goal of figuring out why the component or system failed. On Saturday they will present their failure analysis to parents, other teams and ASM members. The cost to the student is nothing, all that we ask is that they provide their own transportation to IIT and the business they will be assigned to. For more information visit the Chicago Chapter Web Page (http://www.chicagoasm.org) to view a short video clip and apply online by March 15.

Astronomy Conversations

3/3/2009 02PM-03PM | Ages: All Ages
These hour-long sessions give Adler guests an opportunity to meet astronomers, scientists, and historians in an informal atmosphere, ask questions, and explore visualizations in the SVL, Space Visualization Lab, with an expert guide. Check http://www.adlerplanetarium.org for further scheduling information.

Cabaret Mechanical Theatre

3/3/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
Bring this collection of intricately designed mechanical sculptures called automata to life at the Museum of Science and Industry. Watch as tiny cranks, pulleys and gears allow the sculptures to move in whimsical ways.

IMSA-ComEd CyberQuiz 4Kids - Online Only

3/3/2009 12AM | Ages: 9 and up
Each month, we introduce two new CyberQuiz D4 mathematics or science brain teasers or word problems that are designed to be stimulating and thought provoking. One CyberQuiz challenge is for Illinois students in grades 6 and 7 and another is for Illinois students in grades 8 and 9. Each student who submits a correct answer to one of the monthly, online CyberQuiz challenges receives an IMSA - ComEd certificate of achievement and an invitation to attend a special recognition event at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy.

Junior Science Cafe: The Brain: What's It Good For Anyway?

3/3/2009 06PM-07PM | Ages: 9 and up
Your brain is the super-computer of your body, simultaneously controlling tasks ranging from breathing to conscious movement and thought. The goal of this presentation will be to introduce the brain and its everyday functions. We will discuss how scientists are trying to understand why the brain sometimes does not work properly and some of the ways they are trying to fix it.

Life of Meresamun: A Temple Singer in Ancient Egypt

3/3/2009 10AM-06PM | Ages: All Ages
Who was Meresamun? The Oriental Institute: Museum uses the latest techniques of forensic science along with artifacts and ancient inscriptions to tell the story of a woman whose mummy and beautifully painted coffin are highlights of the museum's Egyptian collection. Art objects and documents illustrate Meresamun's temple duties and life at home, while new CT scans of her mummy allow us to reconstruct her appearance for the first time in nearly 3,000 years.

Planet of the Arthropods

3/3/2009 09AM-04PM | Ages: All Ages
By any measure, arthropodsâ€"butterflies, insects, spiders, beetles, ants, crayfish, lobstersâ€"are the most successful type of animals on earth. Three quarters of all known creatures are arthropods, with more than a million known species altogether. Chicago wildlife photographer Jim. Rowan brings these frequently seen but seldom observed animals to our attention, offering a glimpse into a miniature world that exists within the earth's ecosystems.