Hands-On Partnership for Literature, Science and Art in South Dakota: TEMPLATE

Science & Art Resources

A goal of HOP is to inspire librarians to offer science, art and literature activities year-round. Here are some resources that can help.

Great Explorations in Math & Science (GEMS) Guides and Kits

GEMS is a leading resource for innovative science and mathematics education. The guides and kits engage students in exciting hands-on science activities. GEMS guides are clearly organized, easy-to-use, and do not require special background in science or math. The kits include all activity materials necessary for conducting activities. Every guide includes a bibliography of literature related to the topic.

GEMS guides and kits are available for loan from the SD Discovery Center of Pierre. They are a great basis for thematic months or special events in your library or after school program. Go to www.sd-discovery.com for more information.

Artists in Schools and Communities Residency provides schools and other South Dakota nonprofit organizations the opportunity to use professional artists to supplement the arts in their curriculum and communities. Information is located in the Artists in Schools & Communities Roster; PDF Application Form DEADLINE: April 1, 2008

SD Arts Council Touring Arts Roster

The roster provides information on artists who can do performances or programs in your community. Touring Arts may be sponsored by any South Dakota nonprofit organization, unit of government or educational institution. Matching funds of up to 50 percent of the program cost may be provided from the SDAC. However, support is subject to availability of funds allocated to the Council’s program from state and federal sources. Please make arrangements to book Touring Arts as soon as possible to ensure the availability of the matching funds to your organization.

Ruff Guide to Science

You can create some science buzz by providing guided activities for kids ages 8-10. This free resource of six different science sets can be used for public library youth programs or at schools where librarians and science teachers collaborate. The publication, Ruff Guide to Science, is produced under the auspices of PBS station WGBH in Boston. All activities use easy to find, inexpensive materials and no television viewing is required.

Send an e-mail to fetchnews@wgbh.org requesting your free copy; provide your name, organization, mailing address (indicate whether it is a work or home) email address and phone number.