Tuesday, Feb. 28 | Exploring with Scientists

School-aged children are invited to spend some time this spring exploring with scientists from the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station. KBS is home to a group of talented graduate students and other researchers — find out how some of them found an interest in science, how they got started doing research, and what kinds of plants and animals they study!

The basics

• Dates: 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Feb. 7, 14, 21 and 28
• Audience: Students around ages 9-14, families
• Course fee: Free, registration required
• Register: bit.ly/kbs-scientists2023

About

Exploring with Scientists is an online series designed for upper elementary and middle school students, though all ages are welcome. Each of the four programs, which will be held on Zoom, will focus on a certain research question, such as: “How do insects impact your favorite foods?”. Participants will be able to ask questions through the Q&A feature.

Sessions take place on Tuesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Attend one session or all four! Teachers and families learning from home are encouraged to participate. Exploring with Scientists also makes a great after-school activity. Register at bit.ly/kbs-scientists2023.

The series is free, and registration is required to access meeting information. The presenters are Michigan State University staff and graduate students involved in research at KBS.

Some Exploring with Scientists programs also are available as virtual field trips.

Schedule

Feb. 7—How do we actually DO the science?
With Holly Vander Stel
What does a scientist look like? And what do they do all day? Learn about what goes on behind the scenes to collect field and laboratory data used to answer important questions in ecology, agriculture, and more.

Feb. 14— How do pollinators affect flower shape evolution?
With Robin Waterman
Most animals can reproduce on their own, but plants sometimes need help from other species, like bees and birds. Those helpers are called pollinators! Learn about pollination, the shapes of flowers, and how evolution connects the two.

Feb. 21— How do insects impact your favorite foods?
With Alice Puchalsky
Have you ever wondered why some places have more insects than others? Learn about some of the bugs you might find on a farm and how farmers are making their fields friendlier to the beneficial bugs around us.

Feb. 28— How do plants interact with other life forms?
With Isabela Borges
Do plants have friends? From bugs on their leaves to tiny bacteria in the soil, plants sometimes need help getting food or protecting themselves from enemies. Learn about the importance of those interactions for plant conservation, soil health, and food chains!

Registration

Register for one or all programs to receive secure meeting details. Questions? Contact the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary at k12partnership@kbs.msu.edu or (269) 671-2510.