NASA is launching 28 brand-new 60-second “news breaks”
for the Kids Science News Network (KSNN). The breaks are
geared for kids in grades 3-5, educators and parents.
Produced by NASA’s Center for Distance Learning at the Langley
Research Center, Hampton, Va., the video and Web-based series
includes animated activities featured in a new section of the
Web site for grades K-2.
Kids frequently ask how a CD works, what makes leaves turn
colors, and how to tell time in space. NASA is answering these
and many other questions, by reaching out to early childhood
educators. NASA wants to help educators teach science,
mathematics and technology concepts through the newest
additions to KSNN programming.
NASA’s KSNN also helps explain everyday phenomena and corrects
misconceptions. The one-minute online videos feature kids
answering science, mathematics and technology questions, as
well as sharing facts about NASA, in an interesting and
instructional format. The companion Web site provides follow-
up written explanations, related print and electronic
resources, activities and computer-graded quizzes.
Although NASA’s KSNN series is designed for children, it is
absorbing enough to interest anyone who wants to know how
things work or what makes things happen. “Hundreds of parents,
teachers and students have seen the news breaks,” said Ron
Shaneyfelt, KSNN program manager. “Their reactions demonstrate
we have a unique product they appreciate and enjoy watching
over and over again. They truly learn something when they
watch,” he said.
In an effort to inspire the next generation of Hispanic
engineers and scientists, NASA’s KSNN series is also available
in Spanish. The Spanish-language series, “Noticiencias NASA,”
features Hispanic children presenting math and science
subjects in a fun and compelling way.
For more information about NASA on the Internet, visit:
For more information about NASA’s KSNN, visit:
For information about NASA education programs, visit:
