Science Communication

Effectively and accurately communicating science to a wider audience (aka, non-scientists)

Sunflower Outreach

2022

Introducing circadian rhythms to students at one of Troy's elementary schools using a sunny model: the sunflower! More importantly, teaching kids that they are already scientists at heart. Sunflower heads track the sun throughout the day, but their circadian rhythms control the movement of their heads overnight to turn and face the east before the sun even rises! This way, their heads warm more quickly and are more attractive to pollinators.

Brainchild outreach program of my advisor, we planted sunflower seeds with several groups of kindergarteners right before their summer vacation. When they return in the Fall, we will show them how to graph the sunflower head's movements over the day. The kids are so curious and excited to grow their own sunflowers, and I can't wait to go back next month!