Raise the Roof Exhibit Runs Through April 28, 2013
If you haven’t been to Raise the Roof at the Science Museum of Virginia, be sure and put it on your calendar before it leaves Richmond. It’s an interactive event for kids and adults of all ages. Our recent visit was loads of fun and we even learned a lot from the kids!
Build a Truss – Courtesy: Raise the Roof (at Science Museum)
Tension, compression, gravity, and even explosives are all part of the educational experience. Entering the Raise the Roof exhibit hall begins with the incredible domed structure. This dome is amazing as you step underneath the wood and steel, crank the handle, and see how simple machines can literally raise the roof as walls open up to demonstrate the structural integrity.
But that’s just the beginning.
Interactive Exhibits
We headed over to the activity station where we could build our own trusses. After several feeble attempts at connecting the cables and steel rods, a 10-year old boy walked over beside me and politely asked, “Would you like for me to show you how to do it?” (Embarrassing!). Within minutes he had skillfully connected the pieces and created an awesome structure that was taut and impressive – demonstrating how a similar creation can hold tons of steel and concrete.
Moving over to the next interactive activity, we found a series of objects that allowed us to build a tall structure. The objective of the activity is to build the structure as high as possible before it tumbles. After a few tries and some tips from the display instructions, we learned that triangles will make the difference when it comes to supporting a taller structure. Armed with that knowledge, our tower grew much taller.
One of the most intriguing parts of the Raise the Roof exhibit were the videos and demonstrations of imploding buildings. Seeing how the explosives were carefully placed throughout the buildings for controlled demolition, and then watching buildings actually ‘fall on themselves’ was mind-boggling.
Kapla blocks commanded attention for all ages. Kapla blocks are intended to be stacked and remain in place thanks to gravity. They do not have snaps or interlocking parts and are not meant to be used with glue. Kids were building all types of structures with these wooden blocks.
There were many other interactive parts of the exhibit throughout. A wooden city, books for reading, information on carbon monoxide poisoning, and many more activities kept the kids engaged. There was even a display to demonstrate how different types of insulation can help keep hot and cold from passing through windows. (Note to self: replace windows with new double-panes!).
A Moveable House
Courtesy: Science Museum of Virginia – Building with Kapla blocks with Yurt in background.
We eventually found ourselves stepping into the creative world of Mongolian culture. Walking into a ger or yurt, which is a round-shaped home traditionally constructed of felt, rawhide and canvas, we could feel the warmth of this unusual ‘home’.
The hundreds of small wooden poles that create the structure, and the canvas covering that protects the yurt from the outside elements, was quite unusual. Intricate details throughout the yurt made it feel warm and welcoming.
Family Fun
We even electronically designed our own doghouse to see if it could withstand the force of winds and rain (my house collapsed during the tornado – maybe that tin roof wasn’t such a good idea!).
This exhibit is one that is definitely perfect for the entire family – all ages will find it entertaining, fun, and educational. It’s especially intriguing for young boys and girls who enjoy building, creating, and figuring out how things work. The exhibit is extended through April 28, 2013 so make plans now for a visit.
Your kids will certainly leave the event equipped with lots of new knowledge and plenty to talk about with friends. And they’ll have some great ideas for those school projects.
Check your Savvy Saver card for Friday “BOGO” discounts at Science Museum.
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