Video makes science exciting for kids

The National Science Center and the Army are producing a short video to inspire elementary and middle school pupils to study math and science.

Kudzo Productions in Alabama was chosen to produce the four- to five-minute video to "encourage them to want to learn more," said John Taylor, the producer. "This will be a fun, interactive clip with music and fast-paced action."

Mr. Taylor originally asked for two weeks to film the video but had to settle for one day of on-sight taping at Fort Gordon and two days at Fort Discovery because of budget constraints, $43,000 for the total production.

"This is the first high-definition film that we've done," said George J. Fry Jr., director of the National Science Center.

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In the video, the two main characters will be transported into a video game called the "Discovery Game." At the end the characters will see what they could look like 20 years in the future. One will be an astronaut and the other a software designer.

Dr. Fry is hoping the concept of the film and its new approach will entice youth to explore job opportunities in math, science and technology.

There were approximately 16 pupils involved in the video. The studio specifically looked at using home-school pupils because typically those pupils' schedules are more flexible.

All of the actors in the video are youth who live in the Augusta area and most are home schooled. Other participants in the taping are from Immaculate Conception School in Augusta.

"The taping of the video was fun and exciting," said Luke Amerson, a sixth-grade home schooler. "Watching the lights and cameras was my favorite part, and it was neat to see how they make video shots."

Fifth-grade pupil and home-schooler Brianna Bowen said filming the video was a slow process.

"I can't imagine how long it must take for a real movie," she said.

Brianna said the producers wanted the pupils to do the same things over and over to get different viewpoints and camera angles.

Luke and Brianna said they would do it all again if asked and that they can't wait to see the finished video, which is expected to be released at the end of March.

For more information about the video, call Jan Hemphill at 821-0200, ext. 5533.