KU News Release

Make some noise during spring break at KU’s Natural History Museum

LAWRENCE — While much of the University of Kansas is quiet during spring break, you’ll hear a lot of noise coming from the KU Natural History Museum.

The museum will offer “The Science of Sound” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day March 17-22. The event for all ages will give visitors a chance learn about sound through hands-on activities and demonstrations. Participants will be invited to sing in the shower, mimic a crested dinosaur’s call and try on bat ears, among many activities.

“This event is a great opportunity for visitors of all ages to explore science in a fun and hands-on way,” said Teresa MacDonald, director of public education at the museum.

The event will take place in the museum’s panorama gallery space. There is no need to register. Visitors can explore the different stations and take as long as they want to interact with the activities. There is no charge for admission, though the museum accepts contributions.

Museum staff will conduct demonstrations such as the sound barbeque, also known as a Reuben’s Tube. The device combines sound and fire to visually represent sound waves people normally cannot see. There will be more than a dozen activities, which include instructions and explanations of the scientific principles involved.

There will also be a gallery trail with riddles to solve sung to the tune of “100 Bottles of Pop on the Wall.”

This is the fifth year the museum has hosted a spring break program. More than 4,000 people attended the 2007 event, “Playing with Your Food.”

-30-

The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. University Relations is the central public relations office for KU's Lawrence campus.