On October 7, 2009, 4-H National Youth Science Day will give young people nationwide the opportunity to join leading scientists in experimenting with biofuels to discover which ones will lead us to a sustainable future. Be part of this opportunity to explore, learn - and have a blast - with the Biofuel Blast National Science Experiment.
The Experiment - Make your own biofuel
Renewable energy sources like biofuels are constantly making headlines in the news today. This experiment explores the production of the biofuel ethanol. It is typically made in the US by converting the starches from corn kernels into the sugars in corn syrup, and then adding yeast to break down the sugars, which releases carbon dioxide and ethanol as byproducts. The ethanol is blended with gasoline and then sold at some gas stations. There you might see a sign at the pump that says “E10,” which means 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline. Learn more about biofuels and biofuel research.
On 4-H National Youth Science Day – October 7, 2009 –millions of young people all across the U.S. will actively participate in a live demonstration of how organic materials can be converted to fuel to supply energy. The experiment offers several activities to showcase how cellulose and sugars in plants can be used to create ethanol. In one activity, for example, youth will combine corn syrup and yeast in a plastic container and cover the bottle’s mouth with a balloon. They will watch as the yeast breaks down the natural sugars in the corn, which will release ethanol gas that will inflate the balloon.
In addition to testing corn syrup, youth will test and discuss other alternative fuel options, including switchgrass, sawdust, sorghum and even algae. These fuel alternatives – researched by the 106 Land-Grant Universities and Colleges across the nation that oversee 4-H youth development programs in every state – differ by region throughout the U.S., providing an opportunity for youth to learn about their home region as well as others.
The National Science Experiment will encourage a national youth debate to discuss the “best” biofuel based on experiment outcomes. Young people will be able to see how their small creations are part of a major current nationwide discussion. Youth will also be engaged before, during and after the experiment via several popular communication mechanisms, including cell phone text messages, Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, and through the 4-H.org Web site.
Click here to view House Bill 1390 declaring October 8 as National Youth Science Day.
Visit 4-H.org for more information about 4-H National Youth Science Day.
Go to 4-H Brand Network to download a media toolkit pertaining to 4-H National Youth Science Day
To go along with this event utah4h.org is offering eight great experiments that can be done as a club or as an afterschool group. Check them out below!
Another great resource for science is this free offer from PBS. Information below:
Start a Science Club at Your Program with FREE Resources from PBS' FETCH!
Create some science buzz at your site by offering hands-on activities from the PBS kids' show - FETCH! with Ruff Ruffman. The FREE Ruff Guide to Science will help you draw kids (ages 8-10) in for six science activities and a game that introduces them to exciting careers in science. This resource includes tips on recruiting kids (and managing the lengthy wait list), leader notes, direction sheets that can be photocopied for kids, membership cards to start a weekly FETCH Club, and a list of suggested science books and Web sites for further investigation. No television viewing is required and all activities use easy-to-find, inexpensive materials that won't break your budget. All activities have been tested and approved by kids. Get your copy now!
To order your FREE copy to be mailed in fall 2008, send an e-mail to fetchnews@wgbh.org including your name, organization, mailing address (please indicate work or home address), email, and phone number.
