Science Outside the Square

SOS 2009
Doesn’t time fly when you’re having fun? It seems like no time at all since SOS started delivering innovative events on some of the hottest topics in science, but believe it or not, 2009 sees SOS enter its FIFTH fabulous year!

SOS event: Risk, probability and gambling

Join acclaimed science writer Simon Singh to explore a series of scenarios that demonstrate how our intuition can mislead us when it comes to assessing risk. At the same time – using examples taken from the casino, the doctor’s surgery, the law courts and the paranormal – he will explain how mathematics can help us live, thrive and survive in these situations.

When: Tuesday 14 July 2009, 4.00pm-5.00pm

Where: The Memorial Hall, St Peter’s College, Hackney Rd, St Peters

How: FREE but booking required, book on www.riskprobabilityandgambling.eventbrite.com

Who: Adults and suitable for senior secondary students

Simon Singh is a UK-based science writer and broadcaster. He completed a PhD in particle physics before joining the BBC. He has presented Mind Games on BBC4, the Science of Secrecy on Channel 4 and Five Numbers on Radio 4. His first book, Fermat’s Last Theorem, became a No. 1 bestseller, which was followed by the Code Book, a history of codes and code breaking, also a bestseller. His most recent books are Big Bang, a history of cosmology, and Trick or Treatment?, an investigation of alternative medicine.

RiAus and Science Outside the Square is supporting the participation of Simon Singh in the Adelaide Festival of Ideas. For more information click here www.adelaidefestivalofideas.com.au

The Great Big Science Read!

2009 is a big year for science. It’s the UN International Year of Astronomy and a special double-anniversary for Charles Darwin, father of evolution and definitely one of the big names in science. And how does Science Outside the Square best celebrate this? Why, with a Great Big Science Read!

A collaboration between the Science Outside the Square program, News Ltd’s Big Book Club and Little Big Book Club, and the Premier’s Reading Challenge, ‘The Great Big Science Read!’ will be a great opportunity to explore, re-discover and get excited about science-themed books – new and old.

With a different theme a week – from the brain and body to the earth and cosmos – and something for all ages, it’s time to bring out your inner bookworm.

We’ve asked some of Australia’s top scientists, authors and celebrities to name their favourite science books, as well as compiling our own hit-lists and touring some of the best authors, illustrators and popularisers of science to a venue or school near you.

Plus, the public and schools can vote for their personal favourites, and win some great books in the process.

Check the Adelaide Nowand Big Book Club websites throughout June for recommended reading lists, details of events and competitions.

Contact info@riaustralia.org.au to join our mailing list and be first to know just what adventures are coming your way!

SOS is a program of the