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National Science Week 2021

Black and white photo of young students in a science lab
09 August 2021

To celebrate National Science Week 2021 (14-22 August) the Library has put together a range of events, videos and eresources for scientists of all ages.

Deceptology: the science of magic

Join magician extraordinaire and Tricky Nick author Nicholas J Johnson to learn some magic tricks - as well as the science behind magic!

In four fun videos, Nicholas demonstrates magic tricks like rope folding and card disappearing to show how and why we fall for illusions and deceptions.

Each video has an accompanying activity to engage children in both the magic trick and the science behind the magic! Perfect for use in the classroom or for remote learning, for ages 9-12.

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Children's Storytelling Workshop with Aussie STEM Stars

Tuesday 17 August, 4.30-5.30pm (online)

Join award-winning authors Claire Saxby and Emily Gale as they showcase the Aussie STEM Stars series and describe what it's like writing the biographies of STEM superstars.

The STEM stars themselves will then challenge you with a range of exciting STEM-based activities for children to problem-solve, design and get creative with.

Program suitable for children ages 8-12.

Book now

Nature Illustrated

Wednesday 18 August, 6-7pm (online)

As part of the Inspiring Victoria acclimatise program for National Science Week, join us for an online discussion with experts in natural history about the history of documenting nature through illustration. 

We’ll explore how and why we record nature through illustrations, and spotlight the iconic yet unappreciated work of ornithological illustrator Elizabeth Gould whose work documented bird species around the world.

You’ll leave this event with a new respect for nature, and appreciation for this essential blend of art and science.

Book now

Explore our online resources

Discover our science and technology databases, including articles, dictionaries, research reports and much more.

We even have an archive of National Geographic from 1888 to 2015!

View databases

Read writer Alicia Sometimes' blog on the art of science writing.