9353753 Chandrasekhar This proposal is requesting second year funding to further develop and expand an experiment- based, hands-on program which is introducing girls in the 4th, 5th and 6th grades to the physical sciences, through a collaboration between a university physics professor and the science coordinator of the local schools. The topic areas selected are: Optics, Sound, Electricity, Magnetism and Mechanics. For each a series of modules will be developed. Individual modules will develop a concept (e.g., the reflection of light) through a series of logically sequential games, simple experiment, building of gadgets, toys, art projects and finally, laboratory experiments using simple scientific equipment, and "gee whiz" exploratorium-style exhibits. By introducing the girls to a number of different ways of observing and using the same concept, we will allow them to see how a simple concept is developed on a logical basis to understand complex scientific phenomena. The objective is to motivate the girls by conveying that science is fun, but more importantly, by familiarizing them with simple scientific equipment, by developing their building and experimenting skills, as well as their capabilities of logical reasoning. The program is set up in the initial years as an extra-curricular effort. There will be sessions twice a week for four weeks. The Optics modules were tested in two of the eighteen school in the Columbia Public School District in the first year. In the second year, we will concentrate on two major areas of enhancement. We will develop modules on two more subjects (Mechanics, and Electricity and Magnetism), and we will conduct workshops to train about 30 teachers. The program will be implemented at eight to twelve schools in the second year. We anticipate that the material developed will be integrated by elementary school teachers into the regular curriculum in coming years. ***
