Primrose Farm offers new science education opportunities
This fall, St. Charles Park District is taking things to another level — a cellular level.
Dubbed the Barnyard Biotechnology Series, several new upcoming programs are geared to budding scientists in the community. All programs begin at 10 a.m. on select dates this fall and will be held in Primrose Farm’s new Education Center building at 5N726 Crane Road in St. Charles.
First up is DNA Discovery, which will take place Saturday, Sept. 6.
Aimed at those age 9 or older, this program looks into the basics of DNA and how it is studied. Participants will extract DNA from fruit, learn how to use a microscope, ready samples for experimentation, and create art.
“Science is sometimes thought of as an abstract idea that people imagine being done somewhere separate from their own communities and by people other than themselves,” said David McAndrew, an independent contractor who has partnered with the park district to develop and instruct this and other programs in the series.
“But the reality is, we all can be scientists, and we all can use tools to explore ourselves and the world we live in. Specifically, these classes are using DNA and the associated tools and technologies available today to explore the world.”
McAndrew is a former New York state certified teacher, lab scientist, and scientific consultant whose work has centered on DNA and related technologies.
“The Science of De-Extinction: How to Clone a Wolf“ will take place Saturday, Sept. 13. It is also for those age 9 or older. In this program, participants will learn about the first de-extinct species, the Dire Wolf, and discover more about other ongoing de-extinction programs, including those for the Mammoth and Dodo Bird. Participants also will learn about biodiversity and why it is important.
These classes are aimed at beginners, while others in the biotechnology series are more advanced.
“Beating the Next Pandemic: Viral Diagnostics Lab” will take place Saturday, Sept. 20. Open to those 12 or older, it will focus on how molecular tools aid in the detection of viruses.
“Each student will play the role of a doctor trying to diagnose patients using real lab tools but in a fictional case study,” McAndrew said.
“Dog Genetics Lab: Oodles of Labradoodles“ will explore genetics as students try to determine the father of a labradoodle’s surprise litter of puppies. This class for those age 12 and up will take place on Saturday, Sept. 27.
The last two classes in the series are for those in high school and beyond.
“Antibiotic Resistance: Agricultural Monitoring Lab” will take place Saturday, Oct. 4.
“In the Agricultural Monitoring Lab, we'll explore antibiotic-resistant bacteria in soil and the paradox that exists with using antibiotics on ourselves and animals, but also the effect that can have on creating a breeding ground for bacteria that our antibiotics no longer work on,” McAndrew said.
In “GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) Detection Lab” on Oct. 11, students will examine how humans have altered crops by extracting and analyzing DNA from food samples. Students will come away with real-world uses of molecular biology in agriculture.
“I'm passionate about connecting the everyday individual with the advances happening in science around them, and most of all in inspiring youth to explore their passions and think, act, and become scientists themselves,” McAndrew said. “My goal is to remind everyone of the wonders of the universe that are happening around them every day.”
For more information or to sign up, visit primrosefarm.org.