What topics does a typical Physics Van show cover?
Our show consists of about 15 demonstrations on 5 different topics: The States of Matter,
Air, Newton's Laws, Electricity, and Light. For more information on the demos
themselves, you can look at our Demo Descriptions.
How far does the Physics Van travel?
Because of time constraints, we are USUALLY unable to travel more than one hour from
Champaign-Urbana. Roughly speaking, this is as far West as Bloomington-Normal and as
far East as the Illinois-Indiana border. And, of course, we always try
to have a few shows on the U of I campus.
How long does a typical Physics Van show last?
Our standard show lasts a little less than an hour. Add to that time
for set-up and travel to get between a two and four hour commitment for a
show depending on how far away it is. (Note: The times posted on our
calendar pages always include the set-up and travel time.)
What age range does the Physics Van target?
Our show is best suited for kids in grades K-6. In general, we are not able to do shows for Junior High or High School
audiences. However, we do sometimes do shows for general audiences, i.e. at
museums, state fairs, and Engineering Open House.
Do I need to know any physics/have any prior
teaching experience to join the Physics Van?
No! We'll teach you everything you need to know about physics to do
our presentations. Remember, our shows target kindergarten through
sixth grade, so you already know everything you need to, we just need to
refresh your memory a little.
Do I need to be a physics major or
engineer to join the Physics Van?
No! We've had volunteers from every college and almost every
department on campus. Our goal is to get everyone excited
about science!
How much is the time commitment?
As
much or as little as you’d like! The
time commitment for a single show ranges from about two to four hours
(depending on how far away the school is).
But the number of shows you come to is up to you, just come when you
have the free time or need the break from classes.
How do I get to the shows?
Meet up with the rest of the
volunteers at the South-East Corner of Loomis, and we’ll all ride out in
the van together.(Please watch
your email for any changes to the usual meeting place!)
Sometimes, we will ask a volunteer to drive as well if we can’t all
fit in the van, but you will not be expected to provide your own
transportation.
Will I have to do a demonstration at my first
show?
No. Usually, new volunteers participate as helpers in some demonstrations
and/or help out by taking pictures of the show for our website.
Unless you have experience with science outreach and really
want to do a demo, you will not have to present at your first show.
When do I get to do my first demonstration?
Most volunteers do their first demo at their third show. At
your first show, watch and get an overall feel of the show and
the demos. At your second show,
pick one or two demos you really like and watch carefully as the
experienced volunteer presents them so that you will feel comfortable
presenting one of them at your third show.
How do I know when the Physics Van shows/meetings are?
Our calendar is posted online here.
Also, you should contact us and make sure to get on our email list to
get email announcements of our upcoming events.
I don't have time to/can't/don't want to do
shows, is there some other way I can get involved?
The Physics Van also runs a question-answer site where you can answer
questions submitted by kids from all over the world!
We are also always in need of volunteers for on-campus activities
(such as EOH in the spring).
When do I get my FREE Physics Van T-Shirt?
After you've done your first demonstration in a show!