Get involved with Reading Science Week 11-20 March

Sunday, 13 March 2011

Reading Science Week, part of National Science and Engineering Week, began on Friday (11 March) and there are still plenty of events and activities planned in and around Reading to help you and your family get involved.

National Science and Engineering Week is organised by the British Science Association (BSA), who are a registered charity that exists to advance the public understanding, accessibility and accountability of the sciences and engineering in the UK. The week aims to, through thousands of events and activities in all types of venues, show how science and engineering relates to your everyday life, and capture peoples' interest in the subject.

Below is a roundup of events that are taking place in Reading. These have been organised by the Thames Valley branch of the BSA in conjunction with the University and the Museum of English Rural Life (MERL).

Dr Lucy Wallace, Chair of the BSA Thames Valley branch and Research Communications Manager at the University, said: "Reading Science Week provides fantastic opportunities for everyone to experience science on their doorstep. There are loads of events happening throughout the week, most of them are free and suitable for all, so we hope to see you there!"

Tuesday 15 March; 19:30 start

Ways to save the world: a scientific dragons den

Café Mondial, Reading University Students Union, Whiteknights Campus, University of Reading (RG6 6UR)

Suitable for adults aged 18+

Wednesday 16 March; 20:00

The evolution of language - past present and future

Palmer Building, Whiteknights Campus, University of Reading (RG6 6UR)

Professor Mark Pagel from the University of Reading will explore the evolution of language.

Thursday 17 March; 18.45-19.30 seminar; 19:45 film

The Kings Speech (12A) - seminar and film

Seminar: Palmer 109

Film: Reading Film Theatre, Palmer G10, Whiteknights Campus, University of Reading (RG6 6UR)

Dr David Ward from the University of Reading will explore the science behind stammering. Tickets for the film can be purchased on the evening: Members £4; non-members £5.50; senior citizens, students and unwaged £4 (with proof of status); children 14 and under £4.

Saturday 19 March; 11:00 and 13:00

Turbine tours - wind turbine visits

Reading Wind Turbine Visitor Centre, Green Park, Reading (RG2 6UL)

Find out about wind turbines, how they operate and how they produce energy. The visit is free but places are limited. To book a place, please email greeneducation@hotmail.co.uk

Sunday 20 March; 14:00-16:00

Science of Mother Nature

Museum of English Rural Life, University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading (RG1 5EX)

Come and discover the science of nature at MERL and find out all about biodiversity. Lots of fun for all the family!

All events are FREE and suitable for the whole family unless otherwise stated.

Please visit www.britishscienceassociation.org/readingscienceweek for further information on any of the above events.