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Students get chance to be archaeologists

By Laura Chapman, The Southern

Wednesday, July 23, 2008 11:37 AM CDT

CARBONDALE - Notebooks and tools in hand, a group of young archaeologists dug into sand and rock to uncover the truth about an ancient civilization.

After spending Monday excavating a sand pit to search for artifacts, on Tuesday the archaeologists were ready to crack open their rock samples to see what they could find.

Max Newhart, 10, of Jonesboro reported that his sample held a small sea shell, which could have been used by a member of an ancient civilization as a tool. But, Max said, he still had some more observations to make before he was done with his work.

Max was one of 26 Southern Illinois students who participated in the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy's summer Science Explorers program at Unity Point School in Carbondale this week.

It is the first time the program has been offered in the area, said Michelle Kolar of the Aurora-based academy. The week-long summer program has been in other parts of the state for 10 years, but, she said, the academy hopes to make it a regular occurrence in Southern Illinois.

"It's kind of like a scientific experiment each time we go to an off-site location," Kolar said.

As part of the program, students entering fifth or sixth grade get to learn about science and mathematics through various hands-on activities. The sessions are taught by the academy's high school-aged students, who try to make learning fun for the students.

"They're getting into it," said Nobie Redmon, a Carterville native and program volunteer. "They're getting a lot out of it. That's why we're here."

This week, the students are learning about archeology and anthropology by digging through a mock archaeological site and making observations along the way. At the week's end, the children will present their findings to their fellow students and parents.

"We want them to think like scientists," Kolar said.

After more than a day of work and research, Max said he was already having a good time, because he was getting to dig through sand and rock to find his artifact. A first-time science program attendee, Max said he'd do it again and recommends it to other science fans.

"If they enjoy science, they should come here," Max said.

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, a teaching and learning laboratory created by the state, is a residential college preparatory program for 10th through 12th grade students. About 650 students are enrolled at the academy, Kolar said. The academy also works to develop instructional programs that teach math and science in a fun way.

As part of its mission, the academy works to improve science and math education throughout the state. This is done, in part, with E2K, an after school program offered at participating schools with assistance from the academy. Kolar said Unity Point School will begin to offer E2K this year.

laura.chapman@thesouthern.com  

351-5816