

Catch the Science Bug
Spring 2011 TelevisionNo longer just a Punch Buggy, the iconic Volkswagen gets an image re-haul through this quirky, fun and educational show. Host Kim Bent travels around in her green, polka-dotted "science bug" testing theories, performing experiments and sparking interest in all things scientific. Aimed at the younger spectrum of viewers, the show does an excellent job of using and defining scientific vocabulary, sequencing procedures and offering fun examples of problem solving. For instance, in an episode about a boat racing, Bent tests different designs to see which floats best. Through easy experiments that can be duplicated at home, kids and parents can see the Archimedes Principle at work. (Any floating object displaces its own weight of fluid). All that's needed is a blow up pool, some tin foil and marbles. Because these principles are presented in fun, hands-on situations, it gets kids thinking in scientific ways-even if they don't know it. How does water go from a reservoir to our drinking glasses? How many gallons does it take to do simple household chores? Through interviews and experiments, kids also get great visual images of how and why things work. Who could forget the sight of grown men trying to row across water in giant, carved pumpkins or whole families rowing on cardboard box boats? Overall, the show offers many reasons for viewers to catch the science bug.