Kopernik Observatory & Science Center Talent Search

Overview   |   Scope of Program   |   FAQ

PEGASUS 3/4 “Build Exploding Volcanoes”

Grades 3 & 4
November 22, 2008
PROGRAM:

Get a taste of real experimentation with Earth’s Geological Showstoppers, Volcanoes!
Kopernik’s Physics Lab will explode with “smoking” volcano simulations as each student experiences hands on model building. Kopernik’s new computer lab helps us see volcanoes and earthquakes erupting around the planet. Finally, “Ernie the Earthquake” will teach volcanologists how to stay safe.

DATES:

Please select from A or B
Session A: Saturday, November 22, 2008 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Session B: Saturday, November 22, 2008 from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

BRING:

Snack and Drink.

WHERE:

Kopernik Observatory & Science Center, 698 Underwood Road, Vestal, NY

COST:

$50 Non-Members
$40 Kopernik Members
(Financial assistance is available according to need. Please call for more information.)

NOTES:

All Kopernik Talent Search Programs involve the following: Fun, interactive experiences, Positive peer group relations, Advanced technology, Challenging & memorable experiences, Student centered learning, Group problem solving.

REGISTRATION FORM:

Click here to download registration form

RESERVATIONS:

Call Donna at 607-748-3685 ext 308

PEGASUS 5/6 “Amazing Magnets”

Grades 5 & 6
December 13, 2008

Imagine a world where magnetism is so strong it can tug on the iron in your red blood cells! Explore the awesome strength of Jupiter’s magnetic field in this class! Listen to the weird magnetic songs of the Sun and Jupiter!
Experiment with magnetic forces in Kopernik’s Physics Lab as students are challenged to make the strongest electromagnet in “Magneto’s Challenge”.

DATE:

One session only!
Saturday, December 13, 2008 from 10am to 1pm

BRING:

Lunch and Drink

WHERE:

Kopernik Observatory & Science Center, 698 Underwood Road, Vestal, NY

COST:

$50 Non-Members
$40 Kopernik Members
(Financial assistance is available according to need. Please call for more information.)

NOTES:

All Kopernik Talent Search Programs involve the following: Fun, interactive experiences, Positive peer group relations, Advanced technology, Challenging & memorable experiences, Student centered learning, Group problem solving.

REGISTRATION FORM:

Click here to download registration form

QUESTIONS:

Call Kopernik Education at 607-748-3685 x308

PEGASUS 1/2 “Meet the Planets”

Grades 1 & 2
January 10, 2009

Why isn’t Pluto a planet anymore? Let’s explore! What is a Planet? Students will make a commercial for their favorite planet as they observe, compare and experiment with different planet models. Our youngest scientists learn to work as a team,  make observations and find success in their work! Parents keep a copy of their child’s video
to share.

DATE:

One session only!
Saturday, January 10, 2009 from 9am to 12pm

BRING:

Snack and Drink

WHERE:

Kopernik Observatory & Science Center, 698 Underwood Road, Vestal, NY

COST:

$50 Non-Members
$40 Kopernik Members
(Financial assistance is available according to need. Please call for more information.)

NOTES:

All Kopernik Talent Search Programs involve the following: Fun, interactive experiences, Positive peer group relations, Advanced technology, Challenging & memorable experiences, Student centered learning, Group problem solving.

REGISTRATION FORM:

Click here to download registration form

QUESTIONS:

Call Kopernik Education at 607-748-3685 x308

Kopernik Talent Search Overview:

Since 1993 the Kopernik Observatory & Science Center has offered a sequence of K-12 programs for students highly interested in science and technology. The Kopernik Talent Search (KTS) encourages young people to work and to think like scientists as they explore the world around them. Each year, the KTS reaches over 2900 students locally, regionally and nationally. Kopernik students discover the excitement of hands on learning at one of the best K-12 science lab complexes available.

Generally, a student can take up to four classes a school year for each grade level. Most classes are held on Friday nights, Saturdays, or even the occasional school holidays. The KTS is a great way for students to grow academically beyond the classroom.

Nominations:

Students may be nominated for the KTS by a teacher, scout leader, coach or other youth leader who knows the student well. The criteria for nomination are 1) an interest in science and 2) potential for achievement. Once nominated, students become part of the Kopernik Talent Pool and receive information on upcoming programs and the Kopernik Update newsletter. Click here to download Student Nomination Form.

Programs:

KTS opportunities range from 3 hour mini-classes to multi-week residential programs. All classes emphasize the importance of creativity, teamwork, and independent learning as well as the application of science, technology, and communication skills to solve problems in the real world. Students will use specialized equipment and learn advanced techniques to investigate Earth science, physical science and space science. Programs are taught by the Kopernik staff, industry volunteers, and some of the best science teachers from schools in the region.

Costs:

Program costs are supported by parents, schools, corporations, foundations and individuals. Major funding is provided by the Edwin A. and Marion C. Link Foundation and the Kopernik Polish Cultural Society of Broome County.

All Nova classes are paid by participating school districts. Pegasus & Link classes are parent paid. Financial aid is available according to need. Scholarships are also available. If you can help sponsor a young person for the KTS, call us: we need your support!

Scope and Sequence:

Grade Program Hours Focus Offered
1 & 2 Pegasus 1-2  (P)

3

 General introduction to science F, W, Sp
1 & 2 Link 5  (P, SF) 30 General Science, Young Scientists,
Super Science Explorers		 S
3 Nova 3  (S) 1 Science: Talent Search Preview (with parents) F
3 & 4 Pegasus 3-4  (P) 3-6 Earth Science:  a) Fossils   b) Weather W, Sp
3 & 4 Link 4  (P, SF) 30 Astronomy: All About Space S
4 Nova 4  (S) 3 Astronomy:  Exploring the Moon F
5 Nova 5 (S) 3 Physical Science: Projects with Electric Circuits W
5 & 6 Pegasus 5-6 (P) 3-6 Physical Science:
a) Sound & Waves  b) Lights & Lasers		 F, W, Sp
5 & 6 Link 3  (P, SF) 30 Earth Science: 
It’s All About Me, Meteors and Dinosaurs		 S
6 Nova 6  (S) 6 Technology: Digital Imaging and Computers W
7 & 8 Nova 7-8  (S) 6 Technology: Basic Photography W
7 & 8 Pegasus 7-8  (P) 3-6 Physics:  Satellite Tracking F, Sp
7 & 8 Link 2  (P, SP) 40-80 Residential Space Science: New Views of Mars S
9-12 Helios Research (S) 15 Physics/astronomy: 
Interdisciplinary problems 		W
9-12 Senior Internship 25 Careers: Technical and Leadership Training Year round
9-12 Link 1  (P, SF) 45-90 Residential Astronomy:
Moon Craters and Catastrophes		 S
  PROGRAM NOTE:
(P) = Parents Sponsored
(S) = School Sponsored
(SF) = Special Funding		 QUARTER OFFERED NOTE:
(Sp) = Spring
(S) = Summer
(F) = Fall
(W) = Winter
Click here to download Student Nomination Form

FAQ's

Who are the targeted young people?

KTS targets young people in grades 3-12 who are interested in science and have potential for achievement. The KTS seeks young people, including those from under-served groups, who would benefit from "total immersion" learning with science professionals.

How are young people nominated for the Talent Search?

Youngsters may be nominated by any teacher or youth educator who knows the student well. Kopernik has created a continually expanding Talent Search Network of educators who recommend students on a regular basis. Once students are nominated they become part of the Kopernik Talent Pool and are invited to attend upcoming programs.

What subject areas are part of Kopernik Talent Search programs?

KTS programs focus on science and technology areas, including astronomy, earth science, computers, engineering and the environment . Programs are theme based and encourage students to apply their school developed skills in science, communication, artistic design and mathematics to create team projects which are evaluated by area scientists.

Who are the teachers for these programs?

KTS programs are taught by Kopernik’s professional staff, local scientists and some of the best science teachers from area schools. The teaching staff is assisted by community resource people from the arts, from the media and from industry as well as parents, high school interns and university students who serve as teaching assistants and evaluators.

What kinds of programs make up the KTS project?

KTS programs include mini-courses, lab courses, summer residential institutes and special events.

What is special about Kopernik Talent Search programs?
What are some of the unique resources that are available to KTS students?
Are there follow-up opportunities beyond KTS programs?

Yes, a range of follow- up activities are available to KTS students including internships, science seminars, telecommunications, newsletters and family events. Future plans include "science by mail", student projects, leadership programs, scholarships and summer jobs.

What do MY children get out of this program?

Positive peer group experiences Recognition for achievement
A challenging learning environment They will have fun
Exposure to career role models Community service options
College recommendations Employment recommendations

Who funds these programs?

Program costs are supported by parents, schools, foundations, industry and other sponsors. Kopernik’s new Project Access will help provide financial assistance to youngsters based on their need.

How can parents and others get involved with the project?

In order for the KTS to be successful, we need the assistance of many people to help with program outreach, technical support, funding, teaching and project evaluation. Call us!

How do I find out more about the KTS?

Please call 607-748-3685
or write
Kopernik Talent Search
698 Underwood Road, Vestal, NY 13850

Click here to download Student Nomination Form