Brian Goldblatt of Mad Science of Mt. Diablo put on the Up, Up and Away special event at Brentwood School. The Aug. 17 science assembly was all about air and some of the ways it influences our everyday lives.
Students got to assist Goldblatt with experiments including how hot air is lighter than cold air; how the speed of air can create low or high pressure areas, and even how the lungs and diaphragm work to bring in oxygen or push carbon dioxide out of the human body.
The kids were also intrigued at how molecules could be heated and expanded by using everyday objects in the home. After reminding students to not perform the experiments without their parents present, Goldblatt created a flame by using a flammable liquid, a bottle and a heat source.
Richard McGaha, left, and Raymond Morales help instructor Brian Goldblatt demonstrate that hot air is lighter than cold air.
"I liked the part when … he burned the gas with the fire," said third grader Alex Goig.
Teacher Rebecca St. Michel said that the assemblies were age-appropriate, fun for students and a hands-on way of supplementing the curriculum.
Goldblatt concurred and added that the assemblies are meant to get kids enthusiastic about science as well as use their imagination.
"It's a great way … to fill in that science time that's missing," Goldblatt said. "Our goal is to inspire young scientists of the future by showing them exciting aspects of science."
Mad Science of Mt. Diablo is located in Walnut Creek and has been putting on after-school programs, assemblies and even birthday parties in Contra Costa and Alameda counties for more than 10 years. According to its Web site, the company's mission is to "spark the imagination and curiosity of children through fun, hands-on science programs that instill a clear understanding of what science is really about and how it affects the world around them."
To learn more about Mad Science or book a program, call 941-1500 or visit www.madscience.org/locations/mtdiablo.
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