Lifting Hippos, Shooting Hoops, and Learning about Science: Science World and 7th Floor Media Create Playful On-Line Physics Games
VANCOUVER February 25, 2004
How much leverage do you need to lift a hippo? Kids can figure out the answer using the "Hippovator," which is part of a collection of new on-line games created by BC Science World in partnership with SFU's 7th Floor Media, and presented by Telus. These colourful, interactive games allow young people to have fun while learning about five basic principles of physics. Kids can also sneak a peek into Science World's Eureka! Gallery to watch visitors experimenting with the activities on which these games are based.
On-line science games are Science World's latest initiative to fulfill its goal of providing science based educational opportunities for children across BC. "Our outreach programs reach 150,000 students throughout the province each year and we are excited about the prospects of reaching even more with the creation of these games and the inclusion of them on our web site," said Bryan Tisdall, President and CEO, Science World.
In addition to the "Hippovator," users can play "Free Throw," which teaches them about force, angles, and parabolas while they shoot some basketball hoops. "Laser Beam" involves learning about angles of incidence and reflection in order to adjust a mirror and make a laser beam hit the targets. With the "Wind Power" game, users select proper blade angles and wind speeds to generate electricity and light up a city. In "Mystery Sound" the user learns about pitch and frequency when playing the piano to match the sound wave.
Like Science World's hands-on exhibits, these games encourage curiosity, exploration, and discovery, while making science accessible and entertaining for the on-line visitor. "Science World embodies the principle that learning about science should be fun. With these games, we've extended that mandate outside the physical walls of Science World. Kids anywhere in BC can have fun playing these games and learning about science at the same time," said Julie Zilber, Co-Director of 7th Floor Media. Play the games by following the links at www.scienceworld.bc.ca.