Teenagers Exploring and Explaining Nature and Science
(Grades 9-12)
Explore nature in the city, participate in hands-on scientific investigations, and learn about career paths in ecology, environmental science, and conservation! Participants in the Teenagers Exploring and Explaining Nature and Science (TEENS) program conduct scientific investigations to learn more about the nature and environment found in Chicago neighborhoods. Working remotely, teens contribute data to existing local, regional and global research projects and develop their own research questions to investigate. Through twice a week video meetings and weekly independent projects, teens will gain experience with a wide range of ecological and environmental science field and at-home laboratory methods. Earn up to $425 for your participation! (All participants will receive a kit with supplies and equipment to conduct investigations.)
Spring Dates
- March 10-May 29, 2021
- Wednesdays, 5-6pm (online meetings)
- Saturdays, 10am-2pm
- Online meetings: 10-11am & 1-2pm
- Independent work & lunch: 11am-1pm
- 30 minutes of additional independent work per week (2 hours total per week)
Eligibility
- Able to attend all program dates
- Age 14-18
- Chicago high school student
- Chicago resident
Benefits
- Earn up to $425 for your participation
- Program supply kit
Highlights
- Explore nature in the city and participate in real-world scientific investigations
- Learn about college and career paths in environmental science, ecology, and conservation
- Investigate Chicago’s connections with global conservation issues
- Develop lasting friendships and network with other teenagers from across the city
How to Apply
The spring program is full and no longer accepting applications. Please check back in April for how to apply for our summer program!
For More Information
Email teens@naturemuseum.org with questions specific to the Nature Museum TEENS program. For inquiries related to the teen application through After School Matters please call 312-742-4182 or email applications@afterschoolmatters.org.
TEENS is generously supported by After School Matters, US Forest Service-International Programs, and The Chicago Learning Exchange (CLX)
Do you ever wonder how a butterfly gets its colors? Or how turtles hibernate? Do you wonder how birds know where to migrate each year? For over 160 years, the Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum has served a unique role in the city of Chicago connecting children of all ages to nature and science through immersive exhibits, fun family events, important conservation research and in-depth education programs, inspiring the wonder in all of us.