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Investigation Demonstration

What is an Investigation Demonstration (ID)?

An Investigation Demonstration (ID) is a shorter, simpler, less theatrical version of an SI Show that can be used in place of one demonstration in a traditional demonstration show.  This form offers undergraduate groups who perform traditional demonstrations an opportunity to try FST without committing to a full length SI Show.

 

Note: Investigation Demonstrations (ID) are protected by copyright.  Permission to perform a script is included in the cost of a Fusion Science Theater (FST) Performance Training Course.  These courses teach groups of 5-10 people the performance and teaching techniques needed to perform one particular Investigation Demonstration. The course is currently delivered in a blend of face-to-face and online methods. Successful completion of a course awards the group FST certification and permission to perform the script an unlimited number of times.  The cost of the training course is determined on a case by case basis.  If you are interested in FST training, we are interested in working with you.  Please contact us at (608) 561-1649.

 

 

Our Investigation Demonstrations (ID):

That’s the Way the Ball Bounces

This Investigation Demonstration (ID) investigates how the molecular nature of materials affect the material’s “bouncibility.”  Children in the audience participate in an Act-It-Out that models the straight-chain and cross-linked polymeric structure of the “Smart/Stupid” demonstration balls. Using this model and associated experiments, they predict the answer to the question, “Which of the balls will bounce higher?” and test to see if they are right in the show’s climax.  Pre- and post-lesson assessment is embedded in the show.

Run time: 22 minutes.

 

Race to the Glow

In the Race to the Glow volunteers from the audience play the role of reactants to model the effect of temperature on the rate of reaction in a Glow Stick. Children use this Act-It-Out to answer the question: (1) What makes a Glow Stick glow brightest? Assessment is embedded.

Run time: 20 minutes

 

Genie in a Bottle

“Genie in a Bottle” is a popular demonstration.  This show asks the question, “What is the genie made of?” and allows children in the audience to predict the answer by applying the law of conservation of mass.  Assessment is before and after the show.

Run time: 13 minutes