National Science Foundation RII Track-1 Project:Expanding Research, Education and Innovation in South Dakota
USD’s Lawrence Brothers Science Camp for Grades 6-9
For one week this summer, the University of South Dakota will provide an opportunity for students entering the 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th grades to have fun learning about science. During June 25-30 (Sunday-Friday), future scientists will learn the inner workings of crime scene investigation. Laboratory activities accentuate the chemistry, physics, biology, physiology, and mathematics of crime scene investigation.
Goals of the Camp
- To bring students together for a week of fun-filled, hands-on science activities centered on a theme.
- To develop and use math & science skills.
- To honor the legacy of scientists and USD alumni E.O. and John Lawrence.
Tentative Activities
- Analyze evidence to solve a crime
- Analyze handwriting
- Analyze chemical substances
- Solve secret codes
- Learn what DNA is and why it is important to solving crimes
- Learn about lie detector tests and how they work to catch criminals
- Learn about forensic science careers
- See how drug dogs help law enforcement
- Take fingerprints, analyze them, and learn how each is unique
Other Activities
- Sports
- Swimming
- Movies
Supervision
The camp is led by a middle school science teacher, USD faculty members, USD honors students and USD graduate students.
Fees
Lodger Fees:
- Early Bird Registration (April 14, 2023) — $495
- Regular Registration (June 1, 2023) — $525
Commuter Fees:
- Early Bird Registration (April 14, 2023) — $375
- Regular Registration (June 1, 2023) — $400
*scholarships are available
Send payments & forms to:
SD BRIN
ATTN: Luci Drapeau
Lee Med 233
414 E. Clark St.
Vermillion, SD 57069-2307
Sponsors
Questions
Barb Goodman, Ph.D. at 605-658-6337
or
Luci Drapeau at 605-658-6338
History of the Science Camp
In 2002, the Lawrence Brothers Science Camp was founded through a generous donation from the John and Amy Bowles Lawrence Foundation and support from the University of South Dakota Foundation. From 2006 through 2011, the camp received grant support from Battelle. Currently, the camp is supported by fees and the South Dakota Biomedical Research Infrastructure Network (SD BRIN).
A broad theme is chosen each year that includes aspects of physical science, chemistry, life science, mathematics, and the health sciences.
The goal of the camp is to inspire students and to give them hands-on opportunities to conduct experiments designed to challenge them and show them that science is fun. Each year, interest in the camp increases. Thank you for your interest and support of the Lawrence Brothers Science Camp.