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We've done a couple of "fossil dig" things.  For one the matrix was hydrocal, white gypsum cement, that the kids whacked at with oak mallets and chisels. Messy. But the kids felt like they were doing "real" fossil excavation. And once all the matrix was removed we poured more hydrocal over the casts stuck to the bottom.. The next time we opted for loose barley that kids simply swept off the casts stuck to the bottom. Also messy but easier to clean up but less "real." Good for really little visitors though.

David Savory
Science World
Vancouver

-----Original Message-----
From: Informal Science Education Network [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Martin Weiss
Sent: Saturday, November 22, 2008 10:35 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Dinosaur Dig exhibit
Importance: High

ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
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The New York Hall of Science is preparing a traveling exhibition about evolution. We are considering a dinosaur dig exhibit and I'd appreciate some information.

        If you have a dinosaur dig activity are you using a wax-sand matrix? And if so, do you find it difficult easy or just another maintenance routine to prepare and replace the wax-sand mixture?

        If you have a dig are you using rubber pellets or some other matrix than wax-sand and is that satisfactory to older children say 7 yrs
+? Did you decide not to use the wax-sand mixture for any particular
reason?

I appreciate the information and it will help us make a decision.

Would you please pass this to the appropriate colleague?

Thanks,

Martin


Martin Weiss, PhD
Science Interpretation Consultant
New York Hall of Science

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