A Day of Discovery: Language Science Fair at Planet Word

Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the National Science Foundation

On Saturday, May 10th from 10 am-2 pm, the Language Science Station proudly hosted the Language Science Fair at Planet Word museum, one of many exciting STEM Day events happening nationwide in celebration of the National Science Foundation’s 75th anniversary.

Over 550 visitors of all ages participated in hands-on activities throughout the museum. From solving linguistics puzzles to meeting trivia-playing robots to seeing their brains light up while listening to speech to exploring icy landscapes in virtual reality, there was something for everyone. Guests met scientists from UMD and 5 other local universities, took part in real research studies, and learned about everything from dyslexia to sign languages to how eye movements help scientists understand how language works. Visitors also collected stamps in Language Science Fair passports as they explored over 20 activities across three museum floors.

In the Friedman Family Auditorium, short talks by experts explored fascinating topics like how we pick up accents, what dogs know about language, myths about African American Language, and what the brain does when we switch languages.

With balloon animals, raffle prizes, and cotton candy, as well as ASL interpreters and accessible programming for all, the Language Science Fair was as inclusive as it was fun. The language science community is grateful to the National Science Foundation for supporting discoveries across the language sciences, and for helping share the joy of language with the public.