Exploring Science Across Pennsylvania: A Journey Through Discovery!
At PA Distance, we believe that learning happens everywhere—and what better way to explore STEM than by taking our students on an unforgettable science adventure across Pennsylvania!
From physics and robotics to meteorology and engineering, our students engaged with hands-on experiments, real-world applications, and expert-led demonstrations at five incredible science centers. But one of the best parts of these field trips? Students got to meet their science teachers in person! 👩🏫🔬 Our dedicated educators traveled from our home base in Wexford to meet students from across the state, creating meaningful connections beyond the virtual classroom.
In addition to our in-person experiences, students also participated in a live virtual surgery, where they had the unique opportunity to witness a real medical procedure and interact with healthcare professionals. This experience gave students a firsthand look into the medical field, allowing them to ask questions and gain insights into careers in healthcare.
Here’s a look at the exciting places we visited and the discoveries we made along the way!
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts – Discovering the Spirit Bear
Families. gather in front of the Spirit Bear exhibit at the Whitaker.
Our journey began at the Whitaker Center in Harrisburg, where students explored the Spirit Bear, a rare white bear found in North America. Through this lesson, students learned about biology, conservation, and the environment, connecting science with the natural world. They also explored exhibits that highlighted digital technology, physics, and engineering, reinforcing the link between science and creativity. 🎨🐻
⚡ The Franklin Institute – Combustion in Action!
Everyone smiles after the exciting combustion show at the Franklin Institute
Next, we headed to The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, where students participated in an explosive combustion class! 🔥 They witnessed firsthand how chemical reactions release energy, learning about the science behind fire, fuel, and explosions. Alongside this fiery experience, students explored the museum’s legendary exhibits, including the Giant Heart, physics demonstrations, and space innovations. ❤️⚙️
🔎 Da Vinci Science Center – The Extreme Cold of Liquid Nitrogen
PA Distance families enjoy the chilly demonstration at the DaVinci Science Center
At the Da Vinci Science Center, students explored the thrilling science of extreme temperatures ❄️ through an interactive liquid nitrogen demonstration. They watched in awe as ultra-cold temperatures made balloons shrink, froze objects instantly, and even shattered rubber balls like glass! 🌡️💨 Along with these eye-opening experiments, students engaged with hands-on exhibits that brought STEM concepts to life, sparking curiosity and encouraging critical thinking. This exciting experience helped them connect classroom learning to real-world science in a fun and unforgettable way!
🚀 Carnegie Science Center – From Basics to Blastoff
Students raise their hands to volunteer to participate in the basic to blastoff program
Our next stop took us to Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Science Center, where students learned about space exploration and rocket science during the "Basics to Blastoff" demonstration at the Science Stage. They discovered how rockets are launched, the forces behind liftoff, and the challenges of space travel. 🚀🌌 Students also engaged with robotics, AI technology, and hands-on engineering challenges.
🌦 Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center – Making a Cloud!
One of our students tries out a career as a meteorologist at the Weather Discovery Center
Our science adventure wrapped up in Punxsutawney, home of the famous groundhog, Phil! 🦫 Students became meteorologists for the day, creating their own cloud while learning about the water cycle, condensation, and cloud formation. 🌫 They also explored the science behind forecasting, storm tracking, and climate patterns.
🏥 Virtual Live Surgery – A Front-Row Seat to Medicine
In addition to our in-person science adventures, PA Distance students also participated in a live virtual surgery experience! This interactive session allowed students to witness a real medical procedure, gaining insights into anatomy, surgical techniques, and healthcare careers. They had the opportunity to ask medical professionals questions in real time, making this an unforgettable and inspiring experience for future doctors, nurses, and medical scientists.
A Hands-On Approach to Learning & Building Connections
This multi-stop science adventure gave students a deeper understanding of STEM concepts in a fun, immersive way. Whether igniting combustion reactions, experiencing liquid nitrogen’s extreme cold, launching into space science, or witnessing a real surgery, these experiences made learning exciting, meaningful, and inspiring!
Even more special was the opportunity for students to meet their science teachers in person. Since PA Distance students learn online from all across Pennsylvania, these trips provided a unique chance to connect with their teachers face-to-face, ask questions, and engage with science together in real time! 👩🏫🔬
