[ RadSafe ] Fwd: Boy Scouts nuclear science merit badge

[Chris Alston]

Corey

I have nothing useful to offer, except that I think that you would
find that they would eagerly soak up whatever info you were to impart
to them.  E.g., one does not need calculus, or even algebra, to grasp
the concept of half-life in a way that is readily applicable, all that
one really needs is the ability to multiply repetitively by 0.5.
Admittedly, a basic ability to use a scientific calculator is very
helpful, because one can work with partial half-lives, and the
ingrowth of decay products.

Please note, the crucial idea here has very broad general utility, as
in, say, half-times in pharmacokinetics, or in the clearance of dust
from the air in a ventilated room.  The earlier they start thinking
exponentially, the better for their educational and professional
progress, IMHO.

Cheers
cja



-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, December 05, 2012 8:23 AM
Subject: [ RadSafe ] Boy Scouts nuclear science merit badge

I was asked to be a counselor for some boy scouts hoping to get merit badges
in nuclear science.  Most of the kids are ages 13-15.  Some of the topics
(basic physics, radiation safety, radiobiology etc) seem a bit advanced for
kids in their early teens.  Perhaps I'm wrong though.  Does anyone have any
experience they would like to share? Is there any advice on teaching nuclear
science to younger students or counseling this merit badge specifically?

thanks

--
Corey Clift, M.S.
3364200752