Exploring Scientific Modeling and Paleobiology

The Virtual Worlds Institute offers a unique program for rising seventh and eighth graders, providing them with opportunities to learn paleobiology, interact with museum resources, and engage in fossil digs. Students use technology to recreate extinct species, such as the goblin shark and seal canth, enhancing their understanding of modeling and scientific inquiry. The program is part of a series of summer institutes, including the Evolution and Anthropology Institutes, aimed at providing immersive and challenging science experiences for middle school students.

What is the main focus of the Virtual Worlds Institute program?

• Exploring ancient civilizations

• Teaching students about modern technology

• Learning about paleobiology and fossils

• Studying marine biology

How does the program help students understand scientific modeling?

• By focusing on mathematical equations

• By showing how models expand scientific knowledge

• By using virtual reality simulations

• By teaching them to build physical models

What unique experience did students have during the program?

• Visiting a dinosaur theme park

• Participating in a fossil dig

• Attending a science fair

• Building a museum exhibit

Which software did students use to recreate ancient creatures?

• Photoshop and Illustrator

• AutoCAD and SketchUp

• Maya and Blender

• Sculpturist and Blue Mars

What ancient species did one student choose to recreate?

• Goblin shark

• Megalodon

• Tyrannosaurus Rex

• Pterodactyl

What is a coelacanth?

• An ancient bird

• A prehistoric mammal

• A type of dinosaur

• A type of lobe-finned fish

What are the three institutes offered during the summer?

• History, Geography, and Literature

• Mathematics, Engineering, and Technology

• Biology, Chemistry, and Physics

• Virtual Worlds, Evolution, and Anthropology

What is the main goal of the summer institutes?

• To prepare students for college

• To teach students about art and music

• To offer immersive science experiences

• To provide entertainment for students

Which department is responsible for the summer institutes?

• The Art Department

• The Education Department

• The Sports Department

• The Technology Department

What role do students take on during the summer institutes?

• Artists

• Athletes

• Scientists

• Musicians