Thoreau’s Walden, Present at the Creation
Source: NPR
Listen to the radio piece to learn what inspired Thoreau to live at Walden Pond and what he experienced while he was there.
Science & Nature
Captured: The moment photosynthesis changed the world
Source: NewScientist
Humans can’t survive without oxygen, but just how did earth’s atmosphere wind up with the perfect amount of oxygen for us in the first place? Here’s a look at the change that made our existence possible.
Bats Are: Important
Source: Bat Conservation International
Over 1000 species of bats are found in nearly every part of the world, but how much do you know about them? Learn about the important roles bats play in their ecosystems at this site from a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the bat population.
What Is Diffusion of Responsibility?
Source: about.education
As an adult, you are responsible for your actions. However, when people are in a group, they don’t always take responsibility for taking action. Read about why this occurs and what decisions a person must make, especially in an emergency.
About Pet and Disaster Safety
Source: American Red Cross
Pets need your help in a disaster, from a heat wave to a flood. Read what you can do to help your dog, cat, horse, or other pet. Look for the Pets and Disaster Safety Checklist also.
Alone with Arizona’s landscape
Source: The Boston Globe
Read about how a writer connected to the scenic beauty of Arizona in this travel piece.
The Man Who Invented Mars
Source: Boston Globe
Sometimes, we only see what we want to see. For the influential astronomer Percival Lowell, this meant seeing signs of advanced civilization in Mars’s ancient water channels. In spite of evidence to the contrary, Lowell’s vision of an inhabited neighbor in our solar system inspired years of speculation.
Can We Predict Earthquakes?
Source: Curiosity
Watch this short video on ways people have tried to predict earthquakes. But do any of them work so that we can avoid major disasters?
Crows are smarter than you think
Source: (e) Science News
Crows remember faces, use tools, and communicate danger to each other. But can they think? Find out what surprising things researchers are discovering about crows’ intelligence.
From World’s Fair to Maker Faire: Isaac Asimov
Source: Make Magazine
In 1964, science fiction writer Isaac Asimov made predictions of many technological advancements. Many are here today. Will your work in the future bring more of his visions into our lives?