Teacher Information    

What do I need to host a SMART science show?

Requirements will vary from show to show; however, there are a few basics that every venue needs.

1. A suitable room with a presentation space of 3 x 5 metres with a 2 metre gap to the audience.

2. Most shows require one large table and at least one nearby power point.

3. SMART staff need access to the room to set up at least 30 minutes before the first show.

4. Least one adult supervisor per 30 audience members is required.

5. Your venue must be covered for ten million dollars of public liability insurance (usually automatic for schools).

6. A Public Address (PA) system with hands-free headset microphone and suitable lighting is required for large audiences (over 100 people). Please let us know if you are unable to provide these and we can bring our own.

7. Don’t forget to let the appropriate people in the school community know that SMART is coming!

How much will it cost?

There is a whole new fee structure for 2010:

* SMART shows (45 minutes long) cost $100 per day, including GST.

* Where available, a show together with student workshop (90-120 minutes) costs an additional $5 per person.

*Please ask about cost and av

A tax invoice will be issued after the event.

Schools that are unable to afford this small charge are asked to contact the SMART administrator directly.

Booking a SMART event

The best way to contact SMART is using e-mail. Simply send a message to smart@newcastle.edu.au specifying:

- Which show/workshop you want

- The date and start time

- The expected number of students in the audience and their year

- The school name and physical address

- Your name and contact details

Alternatively you can use this form and fax back to us.

Resources

Two teacher Professional Development workshops are available:

1. "A new way of thinking". Using the science communication approach to enhancing your science teaching. (Infants and Primary, half day duration)

2. "The science behind the show" provides additional ideas and resources to build on the concepts and ideas presented in the SMART show. (Infants and Primary, 1 hour duration)

Classroom activities

Most SMART shows now include free resource material to use afterward in the classroom. The resource pack/CD is usually given to the organising teacher share around (one per school). The classroom activities are a great way to continue the students’ interest in science, maths and engineering.