Wrexham Science Festival 2008

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Welcome to the 2008 Wrexham Science Festival

The Wrexham Science Festival was established in 1998 to celebrate science. Over the years the Festival has welcomed a whole host of speakers and has attracted a huge number of visitors.

This year’s Festival will run from Thursday 6th March through to Saturday 15th March with Scientriffic (a day long programme of fun and activities for all the family) on Saturday 15th March. The programme of events features something for everyone covering a vast range of science concepts and ideas through talks, films, demonstrations and exhibitions. In addition to this public programme, the Wrexham Science Festival will also be running events for schools and for businesses.

Further details on all the Wrexham Science Festival events can be found on the website www.wrexhamsf.com along with an activity plan to help you organise which events you wish to attend.

We hope you enjoy browsing through the programme and look forward to seeing you at the events. To reserve places/tickets for the events please see the bottom of each event listing.

Wrexham Science festival Daffodil Competition

To mark the tenth anniversary of the Wrexham Science Festival this year, NEWI and the Wrexham Science Festival have teamed up with Marie Curie Cancer Care to establish a special competition which will get people thinking creatively about daffodils. Entrants to the competition are asked to use their imagination to create a daffodil; this could be by drawing or painting a picture; making a collage, model or sculpture or even baking a cake. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Entries will be grouped into the following five judging categories: individual entries by the age categories of 6 and under; 7-11; 12-17; and Adults 18+ and group entries of any age group or mixed age group. There is a choice of computer gaming prizes for each individual entry category winner and the group winner will be awarded £200 in Homebase vouchers. All entries will be on public display at NEWI during the Festival and the winners will be announced at Scientriffic on Saturday 15th March. Competition entry packs are available by calling 01978 293473 or by e-mailing [email protected]. The deadline for entries is Friday 29th February at 12 noon.

Wrexham Science festival has been organised by:

www.wrexhamsf.com

Dame Tanni Grey Thompson’s Career

Thursday 6th March

organiser: Sport and exercise Sciences department, NeWi 7pm, NeWi plas Coch Campus

Dame Tanni is Britain’s best-known Paralympic athlete, having performed at world-class level, in races ranging from 100m to the marathon. Tanni has received numerous accolades and awards in recognition of her Paralympic and sporting achievements, including an OBE in the Millenium New Year’s Honours List for her services to sport. In 2004 she was made a Dame.Tanni will provide us with an insight into her life as an athlete and sports celebrity; using her personal experience and anecdotes to present a motivational message of what can be accomplished through dedication and determination as well as talent.

This event will launch the 2008 Wrexham Science Festival.This event is suitable for adults and children aged 15+. Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.

Fundamentals of System Design, Implementation,and Optimization

Friday 7th March

organiser: Communications Technology at NeWi and Quality Acoustic Sound Services9.30am start; all day event NeWi, plas Coch Campus

As part of the Festival, the Communications Technology department at NEWI together with Quality Acoustic Sound Services, have organised a four day course on the fundamentals of system design, implementation and optimization in relation to sound.

Mauricio “Magu” Ramírez, Meyer Sound’s first full-time seminar instructor, will present the course.He is known on both sides of the Atlantic for his wealth of technical expertise and his engaging instructional style. Prior to his career in audio engineering, he earned a degree in computer management in his native country of Mexico. After working with several sound rental companies and artists, he applied his experiences to form a study programme for training professionals in sound reinforcement. In 1992, he established the Dynamix School to instruct students from Mexico and South America. Ramírez attended SIM School in 1993, and three years later agreed to open a Meyer Sound School in Mexico. In 1997, Ramírez was named coordinator for Meyer Sound Mexico’s educational effort and two years later received certification as a SIM Instructor. Currently he conducts seminars throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America.

The course is free and people are welcome to attend all four days or select the sessions they wish to attend. For further details and to reserve a place call John Jones on 07841 040273.

The Mixing Workshop

Friday 7th March

Buford Jones, Meyer Sound laboratoriesorganiser: Communications Technology at NeWi and Quality Acoustic Sound Services6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The Mixing Workshop focuses on the role of the mix engineer in live audio production. Buford Jones gives attendees the benefit of his vast experience working with an incredible array of artists from numerous genres in a seminar that goes beyond the technical to artistic and even political concerns. Mixing tools and techniques, system tuning, mixing in concert halls, record producer involvement, surround mixing, mixing in isolation are all discussed, but Jones also addresses issues of communication and trust between the artist and the mix engineer and the politics involved in any production, from large-scale tours, to corporate events and house of worship productions.

This event is suitable for adults and children aged 15+.Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.


The Road to Bonneville

Friday 7th March

Simon evans, engineering Director, JCB Transmissionsorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

In 2006 JCB’s Dieselmax streamliner broke the world land speed record for a diesel engine wheel driven car. To understand why a construction machinery manufacturer which has been operating for over 60 years would want to do such a thing, one needs to firstly understand JCB, its history and the values the founder instilled into the organisation; values that have made it what it is today. The company’s rise from near obscurity to being the world’s third largest construction machine manufacturer, is a tale of innovation, engineering excellence and dogged determination. Dieselmax was a product of these values and indeed, a celebration of them. In 2008 JCB Transmissions, a major division of JCB, will be celebrating its thirtieth anniversary on the Wrexham site. It’s grown from a similarly small beginning back in the 1970s to the world class axle and transmission manufacturing facility it is today, servicing the majority of JCB’s wheeled products with drivelines; one of those being the development of the Dieselmax driveline. The presentation will take the listener on this journey of discovery and innovation, which culminated in the creation of Dieselmax.


The Universe in 4D

Friday 7th March

Dr Chris Baddileyorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

This is a big slide show where we see perspective views of the solar system, the stars, the Milky Way and far galaxies. The talk is illustrated with many computer generated simulations, shown as sequences of slides. Constellations are time shifted and also viewed from different remote locations. Some of these are down to mag. 9 in true colour, and some are in stereo, seen with red-green glasses provided. Our super cluster of galaxies is displayed similarly in a galaxy trek. Galaxies are also crashed together in simulation. Gravitational lensing and space-time distortions are shown. The show ends with a truly relativistic journey to the star eta CMa, showing dramatic geometrical aberrations and colour shifts, with rapid forward time travel.


Marie Curie CancerCare – Nursing Service in North Wales

Friday 7th March

emma groves & Alison Marsh, Marie Curie Cancer Careorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

A presentation describing the work of Marie Curie Cancer Care in North Wales. The talk will explain about the organisation’s commitment to palliative care in the local community and empowering terminally ill cancer patients to have the choice to die in their own homes. It will then explain the referral process and the work of the nurses and the fundraising initiatives which support this operation.

This presentation is sponsored by Marie Curie Cancer Care.


www.wrexhamsf.com

Cool Science

Friday 7th March

greg istedorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Greg Isted runs the Merseyside Science Olympics every year targeted mainly at KS3 children. This is a very interactive, lively, sometimes messy talk/demonstration aimed to get people of all ages interested in physics and chemistry by performing low temperature experiments with liquid nitrogen. There are three main areas covered: solids, liquids and gases; how temperature affects the properties of materials; and chemical reactions.

Various experiments include self inflating balloons; freezing bananas, bike tyres and flowers (and smashing them up using a hammer); using low temperatures to get chewing gum out of clothing; making dry ice clouds (using solid carbon dioxide); freezing audience members’ clothes eg ties; exploding film canisters; cooking an egg in a frying pan using liquid nitrogen; making light bulbs go on and off using low temperatures; freezing cuddly toys; and freezing a £20 note.


The Impact of Inactivity on the Future Health of our Children: the Appliance of Science

Friday 7th March

Dr Sue Taylor, Sport & exercise Sciences department, NeWi & Jonathan Miller, Wrexham County Borough Councilorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

It seems that there is never a day that goes by without the media mentioning the obesity epidemic and its impact on the health and fitness of the nation, but is there really cause for concern? This lecture will explore the scientific evidence behind the obesity problem and examine some of the potential causes of the epidemic. An exciting new study by NEWI, in conjunction with Wrexham County Borough Council, which will investigate the health and fitness of the children in Wrexham will be revealed. We will explain how these findings can be used to improve the health and well-being of our children.

This lecture will appeal to not only parents and older children, but early years specialists, public health professionals, policy makers, schools, sport and leisure development, children’s services, health and physical activity educators, practice nurses and others with an interest in children and young people.



Fundamentals of System Design, Implementation, and Optimization

Saturday 8th March

Mauricio “Magu” Ramírezorganiser: Communications Technology at NeWi and Quality Acoustic Sound Services9.30am start; all day event NeWi, plas Coch Campus

For further information please see page 3.

Why do we need Science Fiction?

Friday 7th March

Andy Sawyer, University of liverpool libraryorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

We need science to help us understand the world. But do we need science fiction? Many people think that science fiction is about “predicting the future” – guessing what wonderful technologies we will have in a hundred years’ time – or “getting the science right”. Others may think that we are already living in the world science fiction describes – why do we need any more of it?

This illustrated talk suggests that science fiction is more a way of engaging with dreams and nightmares raised by contemporary science. It will look at examples of early science fiction, and the way the “real” speculations of scientists sound like science fiction because scientists and science fiction writers work in exactly the same way – creating “thought experiments” to extrapolate from a situation. In a world where reality seems to outdo the wildest dreams of science fiction writers, do we still need science fiction to help us make sense of it all?


www.wrexhamsf.com

The World of Recording, Live Audio and Beyond

Saturday 8th March

John pelloweorganiser: Communications Technology at NeWi and Quality Acoustic Sound Services7.30pm - 10.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

In this presentation John Pellowe will trace the path of his career in music, recording, live audio and sound system design. The presentation will cover Mr Pellowe’s days on the staff of Decca Records in London through to his role in numerous classical recordings and his work with the late Luciano Pavarotti and The 3 Tenors, as well as his most recent position with Meyer Sound as Consultant Engineer for the company’s new Constellation electroacoustic architecture. Throughout his illustrious career, he has amassed extraordinary experience and skill in the realm of performance, recording and live audio and possesses the unique ability to bridge the technical and the artistic concerns of audio in both the recorded and live environments.


Sunday 9th March





Monday 10th March Monday 10th March Monday 10th March

Brymbo’s Heritage

Sunday 9th March

organiser: Wrexham Heritage forum3pm, Meet at main entrance to Brymbo Steelworks Site at 2.45pm

A visit to some of the surviving historic features of the Brymbo Steelworks, including the furnace which was constructed when John Wilkinson founded the ironworks in 1794. Presentations will follow from Colin Davies, research officer, on the history of the site; Peter Appleton on fossil forest from the Carboniferous period (300m years ago); and Jason Parry, site engineer, on the reclamation of the site. Sensible footwear is advisable.


Monday 10th March

Tours of the Welsh College of Horticulture

Monday 10th March

organiser: Welsh College of Horticulture10am – 2pm, Welsh College of Horticulture, Northop, flintshire

Everyone is welcome to have a tour of the Welsh College of Horticulture today. Tours are being run at 10am, 11am, 12noon, 1pm and 2pm. Transport can be arranged from NEWI to the Welsh College of Horticulture, please let us know if you require this.

Free event. To reserve a place call 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected]




www.wrexhamsf.com

Animal Senses

Darren Roberts, Welsh College of Horticultureorganiser: Welsh College of Horticulture10.30am Welsh College of Horticulture, Northop, flintshire

This lecture/presentation will examine how animal senses have evolved to adapt to the environment that animal species have developed in. (Where possible, live animals from the college animal unit will be used to demonstrate some of these adaptations.)

Some of the questions that will be answered include: why are some animal eyes at the front of their head whilst others are at the side? What is a Jacobson’s organ? How can cats hunt so well in the dark? How and why do dogs have such a good sense of smell? What are whiskers for?

This event is suitable for adults and children aged 13+. Transport can be arranged from NEWI to the Welsh College of Horticulture, please let us know if you require this.Free event. To reserve a place call 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected]

The Effects of Global Warming on Plant Production in Wales

Susan Nicholas, Welsh College of Horticultureorganiser: Welsh College of Horticulture12 noon Welsh College of Horticulture, Northop, flintshire

Climate change has impacted on the way we produce both ornamental plants and food crops. We are already seeing changes which affect the range of species we can grow. The aim of this lecture is to highlight the way in which food crop production has altered in relation to climatic factors and to consider the new species of plants that we may need to grow for garden display.


The Science behind aAnimal Training

Angela Winstanley, Welsh College of Horticultureorganiser: Welsh College of Horticulture2.15pm Welsh College of Horticulture, Northop, flintshire

This presentation will offer an introduction to animal intelligence, learning and behaviour.

Angela Winstanley has developed training courses in positive reinforcement techniques for animal businesses and will use her in-depth research in how animals learn in order to explain animal behaviours in this talk.


Monday 10th March Monday 10th March Monday 10th March


Domesticating Chaos – is Wildlife Wild?

Monday 10th March

Dr paul evansorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

This lecture by freelance nature writer and broadcaster, Dr Paul Evans, explores the values and attitudes behind the language we use to describe, and so control, nature. It asks the question: is wildlife really wild or have our systems of imposing order on chaos and seeking a balance in nature domesticated it? In a rapidly changing world, where and what is wild now?

This event is suitable for adults and children aged 12.Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.

Monday 10th March

A Plant’s View of the World

Monday 10th March

Botany Section & The Botany Department of Manchester Museumorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Have you ever thought of stepping into a plant’s shoes? (Or should that be roots?) This talk will explore what it’s like to be a plant. Find out what they get up to, including the often evil and astonishing strategies they use to compete and survive in a hostile world. The talk will be accompanied by specimens from the botanical collections of World Museum Liverpool.


Sharks Exposed

Rachel porter, World Museum liverpoolorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Discover more about the underwater world of sharks. Find out about the biggest, the smallest, the most dangerous and about some of their closest relatives. But most importantly discover why they are so endangered and what we can do to help. There will be an opportunity to see some material from the museum’s collection and ask questions about these amazing creatures.


www.wrexhamsf.com

The Bilingual Brain (or why Machines can’t Translate for Toffee)

Monday 10th March

Derek J Smith, Cardiff School of Health Sciences, UWiCorganiser: NeWi7pm Techniquest@NeWi

This part-lecture, part-interactive workshop will explain why computers traditionally have serious problems translating from one language to another, often producing humorous errors in their attempt. At the same time, it will help those interested in the brain understand mental computing and those interested in computing understand the brain.


Science, Technology and the Information Age. What Next?

Monday 10th March

Dr gari owen, Managing Director, Annwvyn Solutions, Royal Society of Chemistryorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

We are living in what is often referred to as the Information Age. This Age is a successor to others ranging from the Stone Age to the relatively short-lived Atomic and Space Ages. This talk discusses some of the science and technology upon which the Information Age is based, including cryptography and quantum technology. Examples of failed technologies and predictions in earlier Ages are also given. The issue of sustainability of the Information Age is raised in view of current environmental pressures together with the nature of the next scientific and technological age. This lecture is sponsored by The Royal Society of Chemistry North Wales Section. This event is suitable for adults and children aged 12+.Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.


Science, Heritage and Transport: Past and Present in the Dee Valley

Tuesday 11th March

Dr David gwyn, govannon Consultancyorganiser: Wrexham County Borough Council6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The Dee valley between Ruabon and Llangollen is a textbook of industrial-era transport systems. The Llangollen canal and the aqueduct and their horse-worked feeder railways exemplify a novel approach to the movement of goods and people as well as to project-management and to the use of innovative materials. The A5 is acknowledged as another of the great works of Britain’s greatest civil engineer, Thomas Telford. The revived Llangollen Railway illustrates the latter days of another classic technology, the steam railway. This talk by Dr David Gwyn, archaeologist and heritage consultant, will discuss the technical choices and scientific decision-making that underlie these systems.


Tuesday 11th March

Solar Technology – Factory Tour

Sharp Manufacturing Company of UKorganiser: Wrexham County Borough Council9.30am Sharp Manufacturing Company of UK, llay, Wrexham

Sharp Manufacturing Company of UK based in Llay, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of Photo Voltaic Solar panels. The company is offering you a chance to learn more about this exciting technology and invites you to a short talk, followed by a tour of the factory. You may also visit the factory shop, where a range of Sharp’s products will be on sale.

This event is suitable for adults and accompanied children.

Free event. To reserve a place call Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.

www.wrexhamsf.com

Science Film Festival 2008Frozen Moon Productions

Tuesday 11th March

organiser: NeWi and Wrexham County Borough Council6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Are you a film maker? Frozen Moon Productions is challenging you to make a short science-related film. It can be made in live action, it could be animated, made with string puppets, and it can even be a combination of these techniques. The time length for your film needs to be between 30 seconds and 10 minutes. For further details see www.scifilm.co.uk.

On Tuesday 11th March, a film festival will take place where the short-listed films will be screened and introduced and the winning entry will be announced. All welcome.


Tuesday 11th March

The Scientific Revolution: how Science Changed the World

Dr peter Heardorganiser: School of Science and Technology at NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The Scientific Revolution is a period in European history that unfolded between about 1550 and 1700 AD, starting with discoveries of Nicolas Copernicus, who asserted a sun-centred, rather than an earth-centred cosmos and ending with Sir Isaac Newton, who proposed a Mechanical Universe governed by universal laws. What was the Scientific Revolution, if indeed there ever was such a thing? And if there was, how exactly did it change the world? Historians are still hotly debating these questions, but looking back from a scientific perspective it is clear that there was a huge change in the way we viewed and understood the natural world during that period. In this lecture we will look back at some of the great discoveries that took place and see how they helped shaped the world we live in today.

This event is suitable for adults.Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.


Success Stories from the Fenn’s and Whixall Mosses National Nature Reserve

Tuesday 11th March

Dr Joan Daniels, Natural englandorganiser: NeWi, 7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

This slideshow will celebrate some of the best things for wildlife and people that have resulted from the restoration of Fenn’s, Whixall and Bettisfield Mosses National Nature Reserve near Wrexham. It will be given by Natural England’s site manager Joan Daniels. Over the last 16 years, since their rescue from destruction by intensive commercial peat cutting, Natural England and the Countryside Council for Wales have been restoring the Mosses, which are Britain’s third largest internationally-important raised peat bog.

The results have been dramatic. Beautiful slides will be shown of the really special Mosses plants and animals which have come back from the brink of extinction and all the opportunities for everyone to see them will be explained. Free refreshments will be provided during the talk.

This event is suitable for adults and children aged 8+. Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.

Tuesday 11th March

Candles and Lamps – the Science Behind Light Creation

John Rodway, Centre for Research, education and Training in energyorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

John Rodway will bring a range of strange equipment including an alarm clock, a candlestick, a length of yellow rope, a piece of kitchen tissue, a bent piece of wire, some pegs and a white tile to tell the story of energy and light.

Candles and Lamps is aimed at primary school pupils, their families and teachers. It uses demonstrations, models and enactments to explain the working of candles and lamps. It links science, technology and history and touches on social issues and responsibilities over the way energy is used. Humour and audience participation are key ingredients.


How the Human Brain Creates and Integrates What We See with What We Hear

Tuesday 11th March

Dr Jack lewisorganiser: NeWi, 6.30pm Techniquest@NeWi

Dr Jack Lewis is a neuroscientist brimming with energy and enthusiasm who simply wants to unravel the mysteries of the human brain to enlighten and entertain. He has just finished co-presenting a 20-part social psychology series for BBC2 called “People Watchers”. Prior to this he was science consultant (and featured actor) for a 2-hour science documentary for Channel 4 and National Geographic describing the biological processes that take place “Inside the Living Body” from birth until death, both shown in Autumn 2007.

Throughout his PhD in neurobiology at UCL he performed several MRI brain scanning experiments to understand where in the human brain what we see interacts with what we hear to produce multisensory perception. Every one of us has a brain but few have even a vague notion of how it actually produces the sights we see, the thoughts we think, the decisions we make and the emotions we feel. Science now holds the answers to many of these mysteries and this talk will reveal all.


www.wrexhamsf.com

Tuesday 11th March

Dr Chandra Senan, Water Soluble polymer group (Research), NeWiorganiser: NeWi, 7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Water is arguably the most precious resource on earth. Yet, ironically, it is a substance that is taken for granted. Right now, there are millions of people, animals and plants enduring the effects of water shortages while simultaneously, elsewhere, there is profligate usage and needless waste. It is only a matter of time before major wars are fought over water. The universal themes that bind humanity together in culture, religion and idiomatic expression are all linked by water.

This talk will examine the wonders of water, highlighting its physical and chemical properties, its unique behaviour and role as a near-universal solvent. It will detail the distribution of water, describe the types of water that exist and touch on its purification. The participation of water in photosynthesis and energy production, as well as its crucial importance to all living cells will be discussed. Finally, the discovery of water in far-flung planets and the likely origins of this miraculous liquid will be looked at.


The History of Climate Change

Tuesday 11th March

Dr Henry lamb, Reader & Dr Mike Marshall, lecturer from the institute of geography and earth Science, Aberystwyth Universityorganiser: NeWi7pm, St giles – parish Church, Wrexham

This lecture will look at lake sediment mud from the source of the Blue Nile, Lake Tana in Ethiopia and how past climates have affected human population. It will also cover the lessons we can learn and how we can adapt for predicted climate change. Refreshments available at a small charge.


Water a.k.a Oxane, Hydrogen Oxide, Hydroxic Acid, Oxidane: a Biography of the Planet’s Foremost, Fundamental Fluid

Tuesday 11th March

Adrian Smith, Wilson Bowden Developmentsorganiser: Wrexham County Borough Council7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

This talk by Adrian Smith, Senior Construction Manager for Wilson Bowden Developments, will describe the development scheme at Eagles Meadow, including construction techniques, end use, materials used and any constraints and how they have been overcome.

This event is suitable for adults. Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.

Construction of Eagles Meadow, Wrexham


How Music Shapes the Brain

Wednesday 12th March

Dr Alan Watson, Cardiff School of Biosciencesorganiser: NeWi6.30pm Techniquest@NeWi

This illustrated lecture will explain how musical sounds are detected by the ear and interpreted by the brain. It will explore the phenomena of perfect pitch and tone deafness and show the importance of hearing sounds that aren’t there. It will also reveal whether listening to Mozart really makes you more intelligent and examine how music manipulates emotions. Finally it will consider the most mysterious question of all - what is our ability to appreciate music for?

This presentation is supported by a People Award from the Wellcome Trust.


Sun, Moon and Earth Show


John Rodway, Centre for Research, education and Training in energyorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

A spaceship has just beaten off an attack by aliens. Its energy-banks are dangerously low. Where is it going to get enough energy to recharge them? The answers given by science fiction writers and real scientists/engineers are often very different. This is the point of lift-off for an investigation into renewable energy.

The Sun, Moon and Earth Show uses models and enactments to explain where renewable energy comes from and outlines how it can be harnessed. The key benefits of this so-called “green energy” are mentioned, together with its role in reducing climate change. It links science, technology and geography with social issues and responsibilities in ways that involve humour and frequent audience participation.



The Giant Mousetrap…Catching the Wriggly Rodent

Nigel Moore interactive education & otherwise engagedorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Inspired by the fascinating Honda ‘Cog’ TV ad, watch and offer encouragement as we create a super scale version of the popular children’s board game, ‘Mousetrap.’ A team of home educated children, using only scrap and recycled materials, will be challenged to harness the forces of motion into a graceful and elegant ‘domino effect’ movement to help catch our wriggly rodent (no creatures will be harmed in the making of this game!) Be inspired and design your own “Mousetrap” and add to the display board (drawing material provided).

This event is suitable for a family audience.Free event. To reserve a place call NEWI on 01978 293473 or e-mail [email protected] or contact Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.

www.wrexhamsf.com

Impending Doom – images of the Apocalypse in Science Fiction and Disaster Film


Stephen Kenyon, School of Humanities, NeWiorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Fire, floods, plague, zombies, aliens and most terrifying of all, the mind-numbing horror of the eco-warrior. Cinematic visions of the apocalypse continue to be a fascinating draw for the contemporary audience as we march, two by two, to the amphitheatre of doom - the multiplex. Drawing on academic research in progress, this session will examine a broad evolution of the large scale fictional disaster movie, with focus on the concept of the blockbuster and cinematic adaptions of War of the Worlds...in just under an hour.



The Science of Sport: Preparing Athletes for the Olympic Games


Dr Joanne Thatcher, Department of Sport and exercise Science, Aberystwyth Universityorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

This lecture will provide an insight into the science of sports performance with a focus on preparing athletes for the 2012 London Olympics. The lecture will present case studies of work done with athletes to illustrate how the use of psychological interventions, physiological principles and biomechanic techniques can be used to help athletes to overcome performance-related problems and reach their performance potential.

It will discuss how psychological interventions such as goal setting, imagery and self-talk can help an athlete to improve performance. It will also explain how physiological principles can be used to underpin fitness testing, training programme design and nutritional interventions aimed at improving performance. The science of biomechanics is concerned with the forces that act on a human body and the effects that these forces produce. The lecture will describe how the information from biomechanical analyses has helped athletes to optimise their technique and minimise injury.


An Introduction to Beekeeping

geoff Critchleyorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Geoff Critchley, who has been keeping bees for over 20 years, will give this illustrated presentation covering a brief history of the honey bee, its association with the nectar producing plants from which it makes honey, pictures of the inside of the beehive and the honey extraction and bottling process.



Ten True Things About Vision


Ben Cravenorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

There are many “facts” about our sense of vision that appear again and again in books - but which aren’t true! For example, black is not the absence of light and white light doesn’t have to be a mixture of all of the colours of the rainbow. In this illustrated talk Ben Craven will put the record straight on ten of these myths. The talk will include many fascinating visual demonstrations.

This lecture is sponsored by the Institute of Physics.


Pathology – the Science Behind Medicine


Medical Biochemistry Department, Wrexham Maelor Hospitalorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

It is acknowledged that pathology investigations are central to over 70% of diagnoses. This talk will give an overview of the role and workings of a pathology department with examples of the central role they play in modern medicine.



The Future of IT Debate

British Computer Society - Chester and North Wales Branchorganiser: NeWi7.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

A lively public debate, with senior figures from academia and industry looking at the future of computing and IT over the next few years and beyond. This event will consist of a series of short presentations based on the ideas and predictions of the experts and will be followed by questions, answers and discussions.

This seminar is sponsored by the Chester and North Wales branch of the British Computer Society (BCS).


www.wrexhamsf.com

Solar Technology – Factory Tour

Thursday 13th March

Sharp Manufacturing Company of UKorganiser: Wrexham County Borough Council9.30am Sharp Manufacturing Company of UK, llay, Wrexham

Sharp Manufacturing Company of UK based in Llay, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of Photo Voltaic Solar panels. The company is offering you a chance to learn more about this exciting technology and invites you to a short talk, followed by a tour of the factory. You may also visit the factory shop, where a range of Sharp’s products will be on sale.

This event is suitable for adults and accompanied children.Free event. To reserve a place call Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015.

Thursday 13th March

Hunting for Asteroids Workshop

Thursday 13th March

Dr Andy Newsam & Dr Chris leigh, National Schools observatory at liverpool John Moores University,institute of physicsorganiser: NeWi4.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

A practical workshop aimed at anyone with an interest in astronomy and the universe. Now is your chance to learn how to find asteroids and perhaps even discover one for yourself.

This workshop will use observations specially taken by the multi-million pound Liverpool Telescope - the world’s largest fully-robotic telescope, sited thousands of miles away on a mountaintop in the Canary Islands. The Internet allows us to use the telescope remotely to explore the universe in exciting new ways. The workshop will be particularly useful for teachers and pupils studying GCSE science and physics, but everyone is welcome to join in. Teachers will also find out how to register to use this free resource in the classroom. No previous knowledge or experience required.


Dementia - Past, Present & Future

Dr Howard Cattell, Consultant old Age psychiatrist at Wrexham Maelor Hospital organiser: Techniquest@NeWi7pm Techniquest@NeWi

Where did Alzheimer’s Disease originate from and what does the future hold for those affected by the disease? This lecture will discuss dementia and its history as well as covering thoughts about treatment of the disease, the size of the problem and what medical professionals and society in general are doing about the disease.



The Magic of Oxygen

Thursday 13th March

Mike Batham & Rob Janes, open University in Walesorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The Magic of Oxygen is all about the weird and wonderful properties of atoms and molecules, and one of the most important molecules of all - oxygen. Expect loads of flashes and bangs along the way as some explosive mixtures are conjured up and Mike and Rob introduce you to some scientists from the past and recreate some of their oxygen-based investigations in unusual ways.

The talk will include plenty of bizarre and often unpredictable experiments, such as how to find a genie in a teapot; how to make toothpaste for an elephant; an extraordinary use for marshmallows; and how to make fire from water.


Understanding Owls

Thursday 13th March

pam Broughton, North Wales Bird Trustorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The presentation will be a light-hearted overview of the owl, covering biology, behaviour, distribution and status, as well as conservation strategy. A selection of the North Wales Bird Trust’s well-socialised sanctuary owls, including one of the world’s least-known owls, a tiny Tengmalm’s Owl, whose status in the wild is most uncertain, will be on display. At the end of the presentation, questions will be welcome and guests will have the opportunity to meet the owls.


Thursday 13th March

Colour: a Demonstration Lecture

Dr Ken Kiteorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

“From whatever direction we approach the study of life, we cannot escape the phenomenon of colour” (Sumner).

Why is colour so important in nature? What exactly is responsible for colour? Is there any difference between the blue of butterflies’ wings and the blue of a cornflower? Why are sunset skies red? How can the same chemical species be responsible for the colour of woad (a plant material) and Tyrian purple (an animal colour)? How is the colour of carrots related to our ability to see? What do autumn leaves, ladybirds and egg-yolks have in common? Are rubies and sapphires simply impure alumina? Since chemistry is the study of reactions, how may a chemist exploit colour to advantage?

These and other questions will be answered and illustrated with slides and demonstrations (including chemiluminescence, a four-colour naturally occurring indicator and clock and oscillating reactions).


www.wrexhamsf.com

Extra-Solar Planets: a Spotter’s Guide

Thursday 13th March

Dr Andy Newsam, National Schools observatory at liverpool John Moores Universityorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The search for planets has always caught the imagination. Now with more than 250 planets found orbiting distant stars, we are starting to understand more about how planets and stars are formed - even learning more about our own earth and sun. But how are these planets found? What does the future hold for “exoplanet” hunters? Are “exoplanets” rare or common? What does all this tell us about life elsewhere in the universe? Come along and find out.


Thursday 13th March

Woodlands for Health and Wellbeing

Thursday 13th March

Alzena Wilmot, Coed lleolorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Why do your spirits lift as you walk through a bluebell-filled wood? Is there some link to an ancestral past in the trees? Is it the sound of the birds or the shape of the leaves which lighten your mood? Can being in woodlands make us healthier and happier?

This presentation explains why woodlands are especially appropriate in promoting physical activity and emotional wellbeing. Examples of the inspirational work being done in woods across Wales will be showcased.

The event is sponsored by Countryside Council for Wales.


Rebreathers – a Short History of Scuba’s Future

James parrott, North Wales Society of engineers organiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

A short talk on the history of and workings of diving rebreathers and why the future of scuba owes more to its history than you would think. This is a non-technical presentation which is open to everyone.



The Magic of Science

Friday 14th March

Tony griffithorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The Magic of Science is a show that demonstrates simple practical ideas in science that children can try for themselves, either with parents or teachers. The Magic of Science is a learning experience. The ideas are designed to encourage the development of a variety of skills.

The aim of The Magic of Science show is to enable children to see that science can be fun. Although no magic is performed in the show, Tony uses his experience in the entertainment world, coupled with that in the teaching profession, to provide an entertaining and educational presentation. Children will go away from the show wanting to try out the ideas shown.


Climate and Sea Level

Friday 14th March

proudman oceanographic laboratoryorganiser: NeWi6.30pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

The talk will discuss recent assessments of climate change and sea level rise as well as the research undertaken at the Proudman Oceanographic Laboratory about these topics and relations with storm surges and ocean circulation.


Friday 14th March

Sex, Flies and Smelly Sticky Tape

graeme Jonesorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

How do you chat up a moth? Do bees only say “Buzz”? Parlez vous ant-speak? If you have ever wanted to talk to insects then this is your chance to learn their lingo. Plus can pheromones get you out of that awkward ‘asking her out moment’? Come prepared for the nasal experience of a lifetime!

This event has been sponsored by The Royal Society of Chemistry, North West Trust.


www.wrexhamsf.com

Materials Magic

Friday 14th March

Steve Allman, Show Me learningorganiser: NeWi7pm NeWi, plas Coch Campus

Instant ice sculpting, super bright glowing wires, invisibility and slime. Join science presenter Steve Allman as he gets downright messy exploring amazing materials. See new materials created and discover the secret of matter in this experiment-laden, fun family show.


Friday 14th March

Scientriffic

Saturday 15th March

organiser: NeWiopen from 10.30am – 4.30pm, NeWi plas Coch Campus

A day of fun, creativity and science ideas for all the family with a wide range of scientific shows and interactive exhibits!

There are lots of new exhibits as well as some old favourites. The scientific shows will feature the topics of Sir Isaac Newton; Astronomy; Vision and Illusion; Science Experiments; The Plague; Solar System and the ever popular Bubble Show.

This event is sponsored by Research Council UK.

Tickets are priced at adults £6, children £4, family tickets £15 and £3 per person for organised groups of 10+. Tickets available from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre on 01978 292015 and Techniquest@NEWI on 01978 293400 or alternatively can be purchased on the day.

The Supernatural Sense: the Origins of Adult Magical Beliefs

professor Bruce Hood, Bristol Cognitive Development Centre, University of Bristolorganiser: NeWi7pm Techniquest@NeWi

Supernatural beliefs are extremely common in today’s modern society. Most people believe that there are patterns, forces, energies, spirits and abilities that defy rational explanation even though the evidence for such phenomena is so weak. Why do most of us believe in the supernatural? Is it because of what other people tell us? Here an alternative position will be examined.

Beliefs also emerge as part of the natural reasoning processes we are all born with. This talk, will offer demonstrations of how our minds construct reality and form the basis of beliefs. Each of us has a mind designed to understand the world by thinking about its invisible properties and structures. Sometimes this leads us to infer the presence of mechanisms that form the basis of later adult supernatural beliefs.


Events for BusinessesWrexham County Borough Council are organising a range of events for the business community during the Wrexham Science Festival.

Topics at the time of going to press include:

Towards Zero Carbon

The energy used to heat, light and run our homes accounts for 27% of all the UK’s carbon emissions. To help tackle this, the Government has proposed that by 2016, all new homes should be zero carbon or should at least utilise low and zero carbon technologies. If you are involved in any way at all in the building trade and need to know more about what is meant by zero carbon, this workshop session aims to provide both answers and solutions.

So You Want To Be organic

This is a unique opportunity for growers to learn the pros and cons of going organic. Our speakers represent organisations that offer advice and support, a national store which purchases and enthusiastically promotes organic produce and local businesses that have taken the plunge and have already embraced the organic ideal. There will also be an opportunity to sample some freshly cooked organic produce.

Turning your food waste green

Aimed at businesses within the catering/hospitality industry.

Medical Conference

Aimed at the medical industry.

for more details on these events visit www.wrexhamsf.com or contact Kay Rickard, events Team Co-ordinator, Wrexham County Borough Council on 01978 292536 or e-mail [email protected]

Events for Schools

The Wrexham Science festival is operating a schools programme which is being organised and supported by Yale College, Techniquest@NeWi and Careers Wales North east. There will be a range of events aimed specifically at primary or secondary school groups.

primary School programme10 - 18 March 2008

The science programme for primary schools will be entirely outreach, with the presentations being held in-school. It will reach the six counties across North Wales.

All the events have a practical session and vary in length from one hour to half a day. The sessions aim to develop and stimulate an interest in science. The National Curriculum for Science, Technology and Maths is embedded across the presentations making these session relevant to the science subjects studied. Some of the sessions available include Hydropower, the Science of Photography, Magnetism and Moving Monsters.

Secondary Schools programme3 - 14 March 2008

Many of the events available in the secondary schools programme can be delivered at school or at venues such as Techniquest@NEWI. Sessions available include Geochemical Investigation, Optic Technium Laser Workshops, Discuss: DNA and Dŵr Cymru workshops.

financial support for the primary and secondary school programme is available to schools in the region through Careers Wales North east.

More details of the activities being run for schools is available from www.wrexhamsf.com

Disclaimer

While the Wrexham Science Festival has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in these pages, the Festival wishes to emphasise that the contents contained are subject to change as required. Specific rooms for the events are set nearer the time and visitors will be notified of these on arrival at the event venue.

We do not accept responsibility for any errors, misdescription or any subsequent alterations that may become necessary. It is the responsibility of visitors to check the accuracy of relevant facts with the Festival organisers before entering any commitment based upon them.

Wrexham Science festival 2008 24

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Wrexham Science Festival 2008

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