The BioBus is a multi-dimensional platform for inquiry-based science education. From Biology to Physics to Chemistry to Earth Science, students’ interest in science is energized after boarding our green-energy-powered, research-grade microscope lab. All classes are based on city, state and national educational standards, while preparatory and follow-up lessons allow you to fully integrate the BioBus into your classroom. BioBus scientists develop a customized course to suit your students’ needs.

The standard BioBus visit:

• Can consist of up to 6 classes per day
• Each class can accommodate up to 30 students
• Each class is the length of 1 class period (30 to 45 minutes)
• Classes can be modified to appeal to any age, from Pre-K to adult. See what we offer.

We can also attend public events or provide longer, more in-depth class sessions. Just ask us!

Key Features of Every BioBus Laboratory Experience:

• Led by Ph.D. level scientists
• University-level microscope laboratory in front half of BioBus
• Data analysis and computer classroom in back half of BioBus
  
• Microscope cameras and monitors keep all students engaged in discovery
• Content is matched to educational standards and your curriculum
  
• Preparatory and follow up materials provided
• Students save data for exploration in the classroom and beyond
• Students eligible for our science mentorship program
• Kid safe and fully insured
• BioBus is 100% carbon neutral, powered by solar, wind, and bio-fuels

Hot Hot Hot (Physics & Chemistry)

What is temperature? While we all experience hot and cold, a good physical definition can be elusive – except on the BioBus. Students inquire into the nature of temperature by recording thermal vibrations in microscopic particles, a phenomenon called ‘Brownian Motion’ that was described by Einstein over 100 years ago. Students test their hypotheses by changing experimental variables such as viscosity, temperature, and particle size. In our computer lab, they reinforce concepts of atoms, molecules, energy, molecular bonds, and phase transitions, and test their understanding by analyzing particle motion data on the computer.

Energy and Climate Change (Earth Science / Physics)

The BioBus is a 100% carbon neutral facility, and provides students with a hands-on, working example of alternative energies. Students explore the solar panels and wind-turbine that provide all of our electricity; learn about how our engine runs on waste vegetable oil; and explore the trade-offs between plant-based heating like our wood-burning stove and gas based heating. Using this array of alternative energy sources as a starting point, students explore concepts of energy, earth, and the environment, and learn how the human use of fossil fuels is linked to global climate change through the ‘green house effect.’ Additional concepts include the relationship between plants and animals, alternative energy sources, the carbon cycle, the water cycle, fossils, and geological strata formation.