COMPETITION CLOSED – WIN Humungous Fungus by Lynne Boddy

Professor Lynne Boddy is a woodland fungi expert at Cardiff University and she told us all about her amazing career in Whizz Pop Bang 99: Fantastic Fungi.

Lynne has written a beautiful book, Humungous Fungus, an exploration of all things fungi which will amaze young readers, and open their eyes to the fungi thriving all around them and we’ve got four copies to give away!

Simply answer this question in the comments for your chance to win a book.

Which one is a part of a mushroom?
a) Gill
b) Hill
c) Spill

Good luck!

This competition closes at midnight on 31st October 2023 and is open for UK residents only. For full terms and conditions visit whizzpopbang.com/terms

Humongous Fungus, written by Lynne Boddy and illustrated by Wenjia Tang. DK, £12.99. Out Now. 


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How to store a magazine collection

Do you or your children have magazine subscriptions that you would like to store neatly? The Whizz Pop Bang magazine binder has been carefully developed to make looking after your precious magazine collection simple!

Our brief was straightforward: to find a way for our readers to make sure that their magazines would stay as good as new for a long time. Lots of binders use metal rings, which means punching holes in treasured editions, and that just didn’t feel right. Instead, our colourful binders use a traditional, non-damaging cord system.

This awesome magazine binder is perfect for storing a whole year’s worth of Whizz Pop Bang magazines. Inside the binder, you’ll find 12 Cordex strings (lengths of super-strong cord). Open your magazine to the middle pages, then slide it under one of the 12 strings. In a couple of minutes, you can slot 12 magazines into the binder in the order of your choice. Once secured, you can flick through your collection with ease – as if it was one giant book!

Storing your Whizz Pop Bang subscription in one of our robust binders is the ideal way to preserve it for many years, allowing readers to refer back to older issues when they suddenly become relevant again as new school topics are introduced and new personal interests are discovered.


Whizz Pop Bang is the award-winning science magazine that brings science to life for girls and boys aged six to twelve (and their parents too)!

Discover how easy it is to enjoy science at home with Whizz Pop Bang magazine. Spark your child’s imagination with lab-loads of hands-on experiments, the latest science news, tantalising puzzles and amazing facts.

Subscribe today to start your child’s adventures in discovery and to inspire the scientists of the future!


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Carl Sagan’s Golden Record

Carl Sagan was an astronomer, planetary scientist, cosmologist, astrophysicist, professor and science communicator who was fascinated by extra-terrestrial life. You can read about him in Whizz Pop Bang 98: Aliens!

Carl was involved in American space exploration since it began in the 1950s. He put together messages that were sent into outer space in the 1970s on the Voyager Golden Record.

Read more about space in these out-of-this-world issues of Whizz Pop Bang!

By NASA – Great Images in NASA Description, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6455682

Copies of the Golden Record were carried by Voyager I and Voyager II. They contained:

  • Messages in 55 ancient and modern languages
  • Sounds from Earth
  • Images of humans and Earth
By NASA/JPL – The Sounds of Earth Record Cover, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=137443

The discs contained diagrams that explain where Earth is and how to play the record. Scientists spent a long time working out how to communicate these messages to aliens!

Here are some examples of things that were included on Carl Sagan’s Golden Record. You can find a full list of everything that was included here.

Greetings in ancient and modern languages

English (this was recorded by Nick Sagan, Carl’s son, when he was six!)
Akkadian (an ancient language used in Mesopotamia about 6,000 years ago)
“May all be very well.”
Arabic
“Greetings to our friends in the stars. We wish that we will meet you someday.”
Cantonese
“Hi. How are you? Wish you peace, health and happiness.”
Hebrew
“Peace”
Korean
“How are you?”
Nguni
“We greet you, great ones. We wish you longevity”
Polish
“Welcome, creatures from beyond the outer world.”
Rajastani
“Hello to everyone. We are happy here and you be happy there.”
Spanish
“Hello and greetings to all.”
Welsh
“Good health to you now and forever.”

Music

Bach, Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F. First Movement, Munich Bach Orchestra, Karl Richter, conductor
New Guinea, men’s house song, recorded by Robert MacLennan
Mexico, “El Cascabel,” performed by Lorenzo Barcelata and the Mariachi México
“Johnny B. Goode,” written and performed by Chuck Berry
Georgian S.S.R., chorus, “Tchakrulo” collected by Radio Moscow
Peru, wedding song, recorded by John Cohen

Images

We can’t include the photographs and diagrams included on the Golden Record because of copyright but you can see some of them here. These show some of the same subjects that featured on it.

If you want to find out more about fantastic scientists like Carl Sagan, subscribe to Whizz Pop Bang, the awesomely amazing science magazine for kids! Learn about inspirational scientists of the past and present every issue – our readers are the in credible scientists of the future!


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Whizz Pop Bang’s trip to Just So Festival was out of this world!

Team Whizz Pop Bang spent a wild weekend meeting hundreds of scientists-in-training at Just So Festival 2023. Thank you so much to Just So Festival for having us back again – we absolutely love being a part of this incredible event.

This year, we brought Jonathan Scott from the European Space Agency (ESA) along to share his amazing knowledge of staying fit and healthy in space. Jon works in the Space Medicine Team at ESA and he used his expert skills to run an Astronaut Training Camp.

Jon brought a replica space suit along for Whizz Pop Bang fans to try on!

We were overwhelmed with the turn out for Jon’s talk and it was fantastic to see so many budding astronauts! A HUGE thank you to Jon, and to all of you who came and joined in the fun. We hope you picked up a thing or two about how astronauts stay fit and healthy on board the International Space Station.

We also ran The Whizz Pop Bang Discovery Den, where young scientists could explore their five senses in some super-fun hands-on experiments.

Children were invited to visit us in ‘The Future’ area in the woodland at Just So Festival and try five different activities linked to the senses.

  • FEEL IT: run your fingers through gloopy cornflour slime (find out how to try this at home here!)
  • SEE IT: trick your brain with optical illusions
  • HEAR IT: test how well sound travels through solids compared to through air using clanger hangers
  • SMELL IT: put your sense of smell to the test
  • TASTE IT: find out how holding your nose affects flavours

They learned some amazing facts, including:

We hope to see lots of you at Just So Festival in future!


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Team Whizz Pop Bang are going to Just So Festival!

It’s not long until the fantastic Just So Festival kicks off – it’s running at Rode Hall, Cheshire on 18th – 20th August 2023. It’s an incredible outdoor adventure for families from bumps to great grandparents, and Whizz Pop Bang are so excited to be a part of the fun that’s in store!

The Whizz Pop Bang team are huge fans of this magical festival, and once again, we’re bringing a sprinkle of science to the programme!


Head to Astronaut Training Camp with ESA’s Jonathan Scott in collaboration with Whizz Pop Bang, the awesome science magazine for kids

Ever dreamed of becoming an astronaut when you grow up? Roll up for an action-packed talk by Jonathan Scott from the European Space Agency to discover the skills and techniques needed to stay healthy on board the International Space Station. Test out some astronaut training exercises, feel how gravity affects us here on Earth and check out a replica spacesuit!

Perfect for children aged 6 to 12.


Discovery Den by Whizz Pop Bang, the awesome science magazine for kids

Come along to an exploration of your senses at this hands-on discovery session run by the makers of the most awesomely science magazine for kids, Whizz Pop Bang! You won’t believe your eyes, ears, noses, fingers or tongues in this interactive session full of weird and wonderful sensations!
Perfect for children aged 6 to 12.

Find out more about the festival at justsofestival.org.uk, where the line up has been announced! Discover a celestial celebration of the planets in The Observatory, step out of 2023 and into the future at The Future stage, hear stories galore in the Spellbound Forest, and so much enchanted adventure throughout the site. There’s something for every member of the family!


Whizz Pop Bang is an awesomely amazing monthly science magazine that brings science to life for children aged six to twelve (and their parents too)! There’s lab-loads of hands-on experiments, mind-boggling facts, puzzles, news and fun packed into each month’s magazine. Whizz Pop Bang sparks imaginations and inspires the scientists of the future from the moment it comes bursting through their letterbox. Subscribe today at whizzpopbang.com!

If you’re not lucky enough to be going to Just So Festival this year, but want to have heaps of fun with science, browse back issues in our shop now!


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How to play mancala

Have you ever wondered how to play mancala? It’s an ancient game with lots of variations, but this brilliant video explains how to play one version of it.

If you’d like to try playing mancala, why not start by making your own upcycled set from planet-friendly materials?

Find out how to turn an egg box into an awesome African mancala game in Whizz Pop Bag: Safari!

Get ready to journey through the African savannah inside this wild edition of Whizz Pop Bang! Look out for thundering wildebeest, circling vultures and mischievous meerkats whilst you find out about the incredible adaptations that allow animals to survive in scorching African habitats.


You’ll be able to print leopard-print paper and craft a safari diorama, complete with its own watering hole and real live grass! Discover ten awesomely amazing safari animals, find out how walkie talkies work and get up close with one of the largest and most ferocious predators around – the glorious lion! Meet an elephant keeper at a very special Kenyan animal sanctuary, find out about Thomas Odhiambo who used science to find Earth-friendly ways to control pests on crops and see if you can spot the camouflaged creatures hiding in our photo gallery!


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Whizz Pop Bang reader and their magazine collection

Calling all Whizz Pop Bang superfans!

This autumn (November 2023) we’ll be celebrating 100 issues of Whizz Pop Bang magazine! We’d love to showcase some of our biggest fans in the Issue 100 Wonder Club pages.

Send us a photo of you with your favourite edition of the magazine or tell us your favourite facts, experiment or joke from Whizz Pop Bang by September 20th 2023 to be in with a chance of appearing on our special superfans page!

Send your photos, facts, experiments and jokes to Y@whizzpopbang.com or Y, Whizz Pop Bang, Unit 7, Global Business Park, 14 Wilkinson Road, Cirencester, GL7 1YZ.

For a chance to appear in Whizz Pop Bang 100’s extra-special Wonder Club pages, we must receive your email or letter by 20th September 2023 – but we love hearing from our readers all year round, so please get in touch any time!

Don’t forget to include your name, age and address. We can’t return any post, sorry.


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Ancient Egypt Magazine issue 55 from Whizz Pop Bang science magazine for kids

Whizz Pop Bang: ANCIENT EGYPT Magazine Issue 55

The Hidden Science of Mummies and Pyramids

Do you know a mini-scientist who is learning about the ancient Egyptians at school? Or are they just fascinated by history and science and want to discover more about this interesting time period?

Whizz Pop Bang Issue 55: Ancient Egypt magazine

Inside issue 55, ANCIENT EGYPT, kids will get to unravel the mysteries of mummies, decipher hieroglyphics, and even create their very own mummy! They’ll also explore tomb matching games, make papyrus, play the Pharaohs’ board game, and crack secret codes. It’s a perfect mix of fun and learning that’ll keep them engaged and entertained.

Inside an ancient Egypt magazine for kids

Discover what an Egyptologist does

“DNA is the blueprint for life, so studying ancient Egyptian DNA helps us unlock the secrets of the mummies, such as their family history and the diseases they carried.”

Dr Konstantina Drosou

In each issue, Whizz Pop Bang features a remarkable scientist, and this time we introduce Dr Konstantina Drosou, a Lecturer in Biomedical Egyptology. Dr Drosou sheds light on the significance of studying ancient Egyptian DNA. Dr Drosou’s expertise adds a new dimension to the exploration of ancient Egypt, offering young readers a glimpse into the fascinating world of scientific research and discovery.

Did the Ancient Egyptians invent the toothbrush?

In addition to the ancient Egypt activities, Issue 55 delves into the intriguing history of the toothbrush. Children will learn about the evolution of dental hygiene and the inventors who paved the way for modern oral care. Find out how the ancient Egyptians’ chewing sticks and toothpicks turned into today’s toothbrushes.

Magazine article for kids about the invention of the toothbrush.

For Parents: Extra-Curricular Reading and Learning Support

If your child is fascinated by ancient Egypt, or they are covering this topic at school and need some extra support, this magazine will provide valuable educational content. The activities, experiments, and historical information will deepen their understanding of this ancient civilization. By engaging in hands-on projects, children will gain a more comprehensive knowledge of the ancient Egyptians. Whizz Pop Bang’s ANCIENT EGYPT Magazine is an excellent supplement to their primary education, offering a fun and interactive way to explore this captivating subject.

For Teachers: Enhancing Ancient Egypt Education in Primary Schools

Lesson plan to teach primary aged children about ancient Egypt.

As a teacher, you strive to make learning exciting and memorable for your students. Whizz Pop Bang’s ANCIENT EGYPT Magazine can be a valuable resource to enhance your ancient Egypt curriculum. The magazine’s activities and experiments align with the national curriculum, providing an engaging supplement to your lessons. If you are have a subscription to our ever-growing library of teaching resources, you can even incorporate the magazine’s content into your teaching plans. Use the downloadable lesson plan and PowerPoint presentation provided and create interactive and engaging classroom experiences. These resources enable you to bring ancient Egypt to life and ensure that your students not only gain knowledge but also enjoy the learning process.

Supporting Your Home Education Journey

For families who home educate, Whizz Pop Bang’s ANCIENT EGYPT Magazine will come in really handy to help your children. Designed to be educational and engaging, it allows parents to create a well-rounded curriculum for their children. With its hands-on activities and experiments, the magazine caters to different learning styles, making it ideal for homeschooling environments. By incorporating the magazine into your home educating, you can provide your child with a comprehensive understanding of ancient Egypt while fostering their curiosity and love for learning.

Whizz Pop Bang is committed to making learning fun and accessible. By creating engaging content that aligns with the national curriculum, we support both parents and teachers in their quest to provide children with a well-rounded education. Whether your child is exploring ancient Egypt for their own interest or you’re seeking innovative ways to teach the topic in the classroom or at home, our ANCIENT EGYPT Magazine, Issue 55 is an excellent educational resource.

Unleash the wonders of ancient Egypt and watch your child’s love for learning flourish. Spark curiosity, foster exploration, and make learning about ancient Egypt an exciting adventure with Whizz Pop Bang.

Have you got a copy of the magazine? If you do, here’s a helpful kit list of items you’ll need to be ready for the activities featured in this issue. Don’t worry there’s still loads of science fun to be have even if you don’t have every single item on the list!

Kit list of items needed for Whizz Pop Bang issue 55: Ancient Egypt

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Whizz Pop Bang science party bag magazines

WPB science party bundle image

Are you planning a science birthday party for your budding mini scientist? Read on to discover how to plan the perfect science party. We’ve got a brilliant idea for plastic-free party bag favours, too!

If you want a zero waste party bag idea that won’t break and end up in the bin five minutes after the party ends, why not pick up a bundle of Whizz Pop Bang magazines? Choose from our large catalogue of back issues – why not choose your child’s favourite topic, a theme to fit the party, or something different for each guest?

If you’re buying ten or more copies, just drop us a line at hello@whizzpopbang.com letting us know what you’d like to buy and if you want UK or international postage, and we’ll send you a price within two working days.

If you need ideas for DIY science parties check out our Spy Science issue that comes with a free stargazing party planner!Whizz Pop Bang science magazine for kids Issue 13 Spy Science

Whizz Pop Bang science party ideas

Free pullout star map:

Whizz Pop Bang Science magazine for kids pull-out star map

More ideas for DIY science parties for kids:

Science party ideas take home gift
Plastic test tube filled with colourful sweets with a note to say “Thanks for coming to my science party!”

Science party ideas making slime
Science party idea for kids: make your own slime 

Science party ideas making snow
Science party ideas: making fake snow

Science party ideas Harry Potter potions
Science party ideas for kids: Harry Potter potions


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