Educational Activities

Rocks and minerals under the magnifying glass
What is the interior of the Earth like? Are the rocks that form the core and the crust the same? In this activity, we will travel to the interior of the Earth to find out about its composition and discover, through experimentation, what the rocks that make up the geosphere are like. We will then learn to distinguish them from minerals and recognize the different types of rocks according to the process of formation. We will then investigate the different characteristics and properties of minerals (colour, hardness, streaks, opacity, etc.) through observation and experimentation. Finally, we will reflect together on the social, economic, and environmental impact of the anthropic exploitation of rocks and minerals over the years and we will learn about the specific case of clay extraction in La Garrotxa.
Volcanoes and Life
Are you ready to go back in time? In this activity we will be revealing the key role of volcanoes in the origins of life on Earth and we will be acting as scientists, following the evolutionary trail. We will be looking at cells under a microscope and discovering the differences between animal and plant cells. This experiment shows how photosynthesis brought about the changes that made life as we know it possible. We will then investigate fossils that show the evolution of different species in the animal kingdom and see how volcanoes have influenced numerous extinctions. We will finally be extracting our own DNA, the key to evolution itself!
(R)evolutionise Energy!
Using experiences, models and prototypes, you will find out what energy is and how it is transformed. You’ll also discover how humans have learned to use different sources of energy throughout history.  Afterwards, we’ll be visiting the Espai Cràter geothermal installation and we’ll do experiments to find out how it works. Students will then be provided with a variety of materials to design and make prototypes of green, energy-powered facilities.  Finally, we will be looking into the importance of using renewable energy sources for environmental conservation and the fight against climate change.