What is Wonderwise? African Plant Explorer, Urban Ecologist, Pollen Detective, Parasite Sleuth, Sea Otter Biologist, Rain Forest Ecologist, Space Geologist, Genetic Counselor, and Vet Detective – these are the scientists who are featured in Wonderwise.

Wonderwise is a science curriculum that supports inquiry-based, hands-on learning during which children ages 8-12 are encouraged to think and explore. Participants progress through the scientific process by doing the fieldwork, the lab work and the interpretation. Because Wonderwise also supports cooperative learning, students work together to solve problems. Through their interactions, they construct meaning out of the science content and create connections to other subjects. Beyond doing an activity, they reflect on the activity and discuss its application in the world.

Because each component of Wonderwise (now 9 units) features a scientist whose daily work centers around the content the participants are exploring, kids can realize what life is like for these scientists, who become real people for them, not just a person in a white lab coat. They learn how the scientists became interested in their fields and about some of the obstacles they overcame to realize their dreams of being a scientist.

All of the featured scientists are women. While that isn't a major feature of Wonderwise, certainly it helps young girls see that being a scientist is possible for them. All participants will see that the featured scientists love their jobs and consider themselves fortunate to be working in such fun endeavors!

Instructional Materials:

Wonderwise introduces you to women who have made science their career. Each kit is a comprehensive instructional package that includes a video, CD-ROM, and activity book. With these materials, leaders and youth explore the world of women scientists and discover together the fun of learning about science. In addition, kits of non-consumable supplies needed to implement the activities outlined in the curriculum are available ON A LOAN BASIS ONLY. Teacher in-service training is also available.

Upon request, more information is available about each of the nine Wonderwise units. This information contains the State Goals for Learning, description of the activities, and information about usage of the Wonderwise curriculum and kits.