WQPT | Science for Kids | Brought to you by a grant from the ALCOA Foundation

A Strong Partnership

Since 1995 an essential part of WQPT’s mission has been to help children succeed in school. Through a grant from the Alcoa Foundation, WQPT worked closely with the Rock Island Center for Math & Science during the 2010–2011 school year. WQPT encouraged and motivated 130 first and second grade students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (commonly referred to as STEM).

We called this initiative "Engineering Tomorrow’s Workforce," and the curriculum was driven by problem-solving, discovery and exploratory learning. Students were actively engaged in finding solutions and using creative and innovative ways to solve problems. Parents also participated in many of the activities.

Below you'll find a variety of PBS websites that encourage children to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Rock Island Center for Math & Science teachers, Michael Carton and Julie Hansen, focused on the basic curriculum which included the study of insects, dinosaurs, geology, water and plants for first and second graders. They also dedicated their time to extracurricular and after school science and technology activities. In conjunction with classroom activities, we are pleased to provide Science experiments for kids. If you are an adult, we encourage you to explore these experiments with children. You may preview a video of each experiment and helpful downloadable PDF document containing directions, as well as a worksheet you may print out.

The U.S. government made Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education a priority a few years ago after research showed a decline in science and math education. Jobs in stem-related fields will have the best potential for growth in the 21st Century and will be among the highest paying. If the U.S. economy is to remain strong and the workforce competitive, our youngest citizens must be well-versed in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

According to both the United States National Research Council and the National Science Foundation, the fields are collectively considered core technological underpinnings of an advanced society. In many forums (including political/governmental and academic) the strength of the STEM workforce is viewed as an indicator of a nation's ability to sustain itself.

PBS is one of the most trusted organizations in the United States. Many viewers rely on WQPT and PBS to provide outstanding educational television for children. We invite you to visit the following websites.