Explore D&D&History: Guardians of the Double Helix ages 8+
Embark on an epic journey with this campaign, which weaves together science, history, and adventure. The party will dive into the heart of 1950s scientific discovery as they protect the groundbreaking research of Dr. Rosalind Franklin. The future of scientific history rests in their hands!
You’re standing at the coffeemaker in the staff breakroom at King’s College, London. It’s January, 1953, and your friend Rosalind is explaining her new theory to you.
“Based on an x-ray image I took last week, I think that DNA is formed into a spiral structure. Everything points to the molecules being shaped like a helix; I’m just not sure if it’s two strands or three.”
You nod, and ask if she’s working on the same project as James Watson and Francis Crick. “I am, but they keep whispering behind my back. I think they’re up to something; can you keep an eye on my manuscript for me? I have to go out of town, and I don’t trust them. I need you to keep the manuscripts safe, please.”
You happily agree; after all, how hard could it be to keep three silly little chemistry papers from falling into the wrong hands?
Embark on an epic journey with this campaign, which weaves together science, history, and adventure. The party will dive into the heart of 1950s scientific discovery as they protect the groundbreaking research of Dr. Rosalind Franklin. The future of scientific history rests in their hands!
You’re standing at the coffeemaker in the staff breakroom at King’s College, London. It’s January, 1953, and your friend Rosalind is explaining her new theory to you.
“Based on an x-ray image I took last week, I think that DNA is formed into a spiral structure. Everything points to the molecules being shaped like a helix; I’m just not sure if it’s two strands or three.”
You nod, and ask if she’s working on the same project as James Watson and Francis Crick. “I am, but they keep whispering behind my back. I think they’re up to something; can you keep an eye on my manuscript for me? I have to go out of town, and I don’t trust them. I need you to keep the manuscripts safe, please.”
You happily agree; after all, how hard could it be to keep three silly little chemistry papers from falling into the wrong hands?
Embark on an epic journey with this campaign, which weaves together science, history, and adventure. The party will dive into the heart of 1950s scientific discovery as they protect the groundbreaking research of Dr. Rosalind Franklin. The future of scientific history rests in their hands!
You’re standing at the coffeemaker in the staff breakroom at King’s College, London. It’s January, 1953, and your friend Rosalind is explaining her new theory to you.
“Based on an x-ray image I took last week, I think that DNA is formed into a spiral structure. Everything points to the molecules being shaped like a helix; I’m just not sure if it’s two strands or three.”
You nod, and ask if she’s working on the same project as James Watson and Francis Crick. “I am, but they keep whispering behind my back. I think they’re up to something; can you keep an eye on my manuscript for me? I have to go out of town, and I don’t trust them. I need you to keep the manuscripts safe, please.”
You happily agree; after all, how hard could it be to keep three silly little chemistry papers from falling into the wrong hands?
Academic Fine-Print for Grownups:Students in this class will make imaginary characters that are based at King’s College, London in 1953. From there, their characters will safeguard Dr Rosalind Franklin’s manuscripts, which detail her theory that DNA exists in a double-helix form, against rival scientists and others.
Students will be immersed in real-world history via a fictional, fantastical narrative. Optional homework about the time period and the historical culture will be assigned, and they can gain credit in the game for completing it. Students will gain insight into the history and culture of the time period, as well as teamwork, improvisation, and math skills.
For your Curriculum Records, we will cover:
History and Culture
Ethics
Intro to Academic Research
Dates and Location:
Section D: Ages 8+ will meet on Wednesdays from 4-6pm EST, and will run from Wednesday, December 4 through Wednesday, December 11. Both classes will be held over Zoom.
Requirements: Age 8+, or at the instructor's discretion. No prior knowledge or experience of Dungeons and Dragons is required, as instructions for creating a character will be sent ahead of time. Students will be given access to an online dice roller, so physical dice are not required.
Class Etiquette: I expect and require gentle, respectful language in my classes, and ask that all students come to class prepared to treat each other with kindness. These classes are a great opportunity for your kiddos to practice social/soft skills, with the underlying perspective that we’re all in this together.