Sphere We Go! WonderWorks Branson Unveils New STEM Exhibit Explaining Earth’s Spheres
WonderWorks Branson is unveiling a new exhibit focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The exhibit will be on the spheres, or layers of Earth and is scheduled to open on April 2, 2021.
“This is a great opportunity for the family to learn more about this planet we call home,” said Brenda Dent, general manager at WonderWorks Branson. “We help to make learning STEM concepts fun for everyone, so we are excited about this new exhibit.”
The focus of the new exhibit is on the spheres that make up Earth, including the hydrosphere, atmosphere, geosphere (or lithosphere), and biosphere. Those who check out the exhibit will learn about each of the four layers, as well as how they interact with each other. The exhibit features content and images, as well as a high-definition video that provides a visual explanation of the layers and how they interact. Additionally, there is a 3D hologram exhibit that does not require any special glasses, and will help to enhance the experience.
STEM education, according to the National Inventors Hall of Fame, focuses on teaching children real-world applications that help develop a variety of skill sets. Some of the skills children gain through STEM education include technology literacy, problem-solving, creativity, curiosity, critical thinking, and help prepare them for innovation. Finding ways to introduce them to STEM topics in a fun way can help to get them more interested.
“This is a great opportunity to enhance one’s learning about Earth,” added Dent. “Everyone can benefit from learning more about STEM topics, so this will be exciting.”
To choose the exhibit name, WonderWorks held a poll asking people to choose from three top names created by the attractions team members. Both employees and social media users weighed in, with the following being the outcome of the exhibit name poll: Sphere We Go! is the official new name of the exhibit.
A. Sphere We Go! – 51% of the vote
B. Get Outta Sphere! – 38%
C. Sphere Not These Earthly Layers! – 11%
WonderWorks Branson offers a variety of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activities. They offer STEAM demos throughout, such as an egg drop, bed of nails and the art of origami. Other STEM-related programs offered include virtual learning labs, science fair partnership opportunities, science fun facts and hands-on experiences with each visit.
Additionally, there is a military section that honors those who protect and serve our country. This space highlights STEAM-related job opportunities in the military and showcases some of the technology used in the Army. This section includes interactive exhibits, military artifacts and a theater showing of a short film, titled “American Pride.”
WonderWorks Branson also offers group activities, facilities rentals, homeschool days, birthday parties, scouting days, and sensory days. Located at 2835 W. 76 Country Blvd, it’s the company’s sixth and largest location. Some of the exhibits include a bubble room, Professor Wonder’s adventure, interactive sandbox, illusion art gallery and Xtreme 360 bikes. The fun indoor amusement park offers 46,000 square feet of family-friendly engaging activities, as well as two cafes. They are open 365 days per year, from 10 am to 9 pm, with varying hours throughout the seasons, and when recognizing holidays and special events for current hours of operations, visit the website.
COVID-19 safety protocols being taken include reducing capacity, enhanced cleaning efforts, social distancing measures, hand sanitizer stations, employee health screenings, and employee personal protective equipment (PPE). Guests are encouraged to review all safety rules prior to their visit on the web page devoted to COVID-19.