The Young Scientist Program at Washington University in St. Louis promotes science literacy and encourages the pursuit of careers in science by introducing students to areas of scientific study through interactive demonstrations brought into the classroom.

The activities introduce students to underlying scientific concepts that are suitable for students of a variety of ages, from elementary school to seniors. We have created a collection of interactive demonstrations designed to promote scientific inquiry. Keep posted for lots of supplementary materials, including videos, links, follow-up activities, curiosities, information for teachers and much more! 

The Young Scientist Program - Teaching Resources

Teaching Teams. Teams of graduate and medical students present the curricula in small groups, fostering an atmosphere where the students feel comfortable discussing the specific area of scientific study. Each team makes an effort to develop hands-on demonstrations, thus requiring students to pose their own questions, and to find answers through investigation and inquiry. Each year Teaching Teams reaches hundreds of students in the Saint Louis City Public Schools. Learn More >>

Teaching Kits. In 2010, thanks to financial support from the Leon Lowenstein Foundation, teaching kits were developed to expand YSP's reach. The stand-alone kits, some based on Teaching Team demos, can be freely checked out by St. Louis teachers. Each kit focuses on a specific topic. It contains protocols, supplies and equipment for classes to perform experiments, an instructional video with background material on the topic, handouts and teaching points, and materials for evaluation and assessment of what was learned. Learn More >>

The Young Scientist Program - Volunteer Resources

YSP Steering Committee Meeting Minutes. The YSP steering committee meeting is our monthly business meeting where we discuss upcoming YSP activities, events, funding, etc.  All volunteers are welcome, but not required to attend.