October 2006

Tip Sheets

National Science and Technology Week (Oct. 13-22, 2006)

National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) is a week-long celebration of the science and technology that affects our everyday lives. Canadians can visit a rock doctor, inspect an energy-efficient vehicle or observe science demonstrations and experiments. Natural Resources Canada has worked with science-based departments and agencies to organize activities in schools, museums and science centres. Throughout the week, the focus is on exploring the fun side of science and technology. There are activities across the country.

Ottawa, ON: Science FunFest

Take the whole family to Science FunFest and enjoy the exciting exhibits and free activities! Bring your rocks and fossils for identification or examine energy-efficient automobiles. Celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the Atlas of Canada and explore the evolution of mapping technologies. You can even organize a chocolate chip cookie mining expedition!

Vancouver, BC: Volcano Challenge

Bring your ideas — and plastic palm trees if you like — to our first Volcano Challenge. Teams will be given basic supplies to create a volcano! Prizes will be awarded for "Best Eruption," "Best-Looking Volcano" and in other creative categories.

Atlantic: S&T FrontLiners

S&T FrontLiners is an interactive Web site with a blog and a Web cast that illustrates the rewarding and interesting careers of NRCan scientists and researchers. Teachers in Atlantic Canada can register to receive an educational resource kit. Classes can participate in the live Web cast and enter a contest to win a party box to help them hold their own NSTW celebration!

Calgary, AB: Rock 'N' Fossil Show

Have you ever wondered if that special rock or fossil you have is rare or exotic? Maybe it's even a dinosaur bone! Bring in your most interesting rocks and fossils to be identified by scientists. If you don't have any special rocks or fossils, you can come and check out the fascinating specimens on display and listen as our researchers tell you all about them.

Quebec, QC: Workshop for Teachers

The many links between the geological landscape and the history of Quebec City will be explored during this Workshop for Teachers field trip led by scientists from NRCan and Parks Canada.

For more information on Tipsheet articles, or for an interview with subject matter experts, media can call 613-992-4447, or e-mail media@nrcan.gc.ca.