Science and podTheatre

The entire concept of podTheatre depends on science. 

Biology

Everything done to create a podTheatre production involves human physiology. While there is a limit to how much can be discussed around the podTheatre theme, a lot of lessons can definitely be developed.

Words are read, converted into audible speech. Sounds are heard, and given meaning. Even pushing the buttons on a mixer board involves dozens of aspects of human biology. A cue is heard, triggering a memory that the sound effects person needs to slam a door. Nerves trigger muscles, and the door slams on cue. How does this chain of events happen so quickly?

Hearing

Hearing is an amazing process. How do the bones in the ear work? How do we convert the vibrations of sound waves into meaning? Do individuals with hearing impairments still "hear" our podTheatre production?

Speaking

Other animals can mimic sounds. Some can even communicate with a limited "vocabulary." But how do humans speak? What makes language possible?

How Waves Work

Waves are a basic concept in the physical sciences. Sound, light, liquids, and even the earth's crust move in waves. What are the qualities of all waves? What makes one wave different from another? Concepts of amplitude, frequency, energy, and form are some of the ideas classes can explore.  

How "Terrestrial" Radio Works

Before rushing into podTheatre and current science, nothing beats a lesson dealing with old-fashioned AM radio. Students can build crystal radios, experiment with short-wave radio, and more. Radio isn't dead, of course, with HD radio and satellite radio taking the place of AM/FM radio. Experiments can easily demonstate radio frequencies, interference, and other aspects of terrestrial radio waves.

How an MP3 Player (or anything else) Works

With so much technology involved in podTheatre, there are many "how it works" topics a class could pursue.

• How does an MP3 player work?
• How does a MIDI keyboard work?
• How does a microphone work?
• How does the Internet work? (Huge, huge topic...)

Students can create long lists of topics to explore. Groups working together could create Web pages or presentations on what they learn.

Inventor Biographies

Students should learn about Marconi, Edison, and others involved in the science and technology of radio. Learning about scientists is often the best way to get students interested in exploration.