4-H Delivers

Inyo & Mono Counties 2010 4-H National Youth Science Experiment

The Issue

Inyo & Mono Counties 4-H Youth Development Program serves a rural youth population that are geographically isolated. The 2010 4-H National Youth Science Experiment was a successful way to bring cutting edge science curriculum to our youth. In addition, by offering this engaging experiment our 4-H program hoped to spark an early youth interest in science.

What Has 4-H Done?

Inyo & Mono Counties 4-H partnered with the Inyo County Office of the Superintendent of Schools at their annual 5th and 6th grade Inyo County Outdoor Science School. On October 19, 4-H volunteers visited two fifth grade classes at the science camp to deliver the experiment. The 4-H National Science Experiment was scheduled to occur during the student’s free time in the evening. Even with attendance being optional, over 50 youth participated in the experiment.

The Payoff

To encourage youth interaction and interest in the science experiment, youth completing the experiment were given a 4-H NYSD t-shirt, and asked to bring a friend back and teach them. This encouraged increased participation and youth taking a leadership role in teaching their peers.

Author: Serena Dennis, 4-H Program Representative at sldennis@ucdavis.edu