Steve “The Dirtmeister” Tomecek
on OFF THE PAGE

Listen to the program now
in RealAudio© format
(requires free RealAudio© player)

Originally broadcast November 30 at 1 & 7pm on WSKG Radio

Everything has an explanation, and science can find it. This simple fact can start young people on the path of scientific exploration, leading to success in school, an understanding of the world around them and possibly a lifetime career. Since the basics of science never change, grownups should be able to help young people with their science homework and answer questions like, “Why does a candle go out when I blow on it?” If you’re not sure, ask The Dirtmeister.

Stephen M. Tomecek is a geologist by training, a resident of Delaware County and one of the nation’s leading science writers and educators. His books include “What a Great Idea: Inventions That Changed the World” (Edison didn’t just invent the light bulb, he also invented the modern industrial research lab) and the National Geographic children’s book called simply “Dirt”. The Dirtmeister likes to point out that one square foot of soil in the forest can contain 300,000 different living things.

An understanding of basic science requires hands-on experience and a good teacher. Tomecek’s materials for students and teachers utilize the simplest everyday objects to demonstrate such phenomena as gravitational potential energy. One of his favorite pieces of “lab equipment” is an empty coffee can. His book “Coffee Can Science” – a bright and lively book intended for teacher of grades 4 to 8 – features over two dozen experiments, including a “sonic blaster”, that turns energy into sound and into energy again.

Listen to the program now
in RealAudio© format
(requires free RealAudio© player)