There are lots of words in lots of languages in the world. There's a word for almost everything we can imagine! But how did words start? And why do languages all sound so different? Let's take a ride in a time (and place) machine with Dr Howie Manns to learn about how and why people come up with words.

How did people come up with words?

Imagine This is a science podcast for the young and curious. Have you ever wondered how bees make honey? Or how do fish breathe underwater? Or, very importantly, where your poo goes when you flush it down the toilet? Imagine This is a series of puzzling science questions from inquisitive young minds. Our host, Dr Niraj Lal, chats to kids and Australia's leading academics, taking you on imaginative adventures to learn about the world around us and find the answers together. 

This podcast is suited to kids aged 4 and up, though all members of the family are sure to learn something!

Kids & Family

We can see them after a sun shower... or the spray of the sprinkler... we can even sing them! But why can't we ever catch them? Nij shares the ingredients to make a rainbow in this special episode of Imagine This...

How are rainbows made?

Family trees have so many branches. You're on one branch, your parents on another, your grandparents on another and great grandparents after that... Could it go all the way back to the first person? Let's ask archaeologist Associate Professor Michelle Langley about how humans came to be...

Who was the first person in the world?

Let's follow the slimy, shiny trail down the garden path all the way to... the Snail Whisperers! Drs John and Lorelle Stanisic will show us the secret lives of snails and how they get their famous spiral shells.

How do snails get their shells?

Fabric is everywhere. It's on the bus seat and the welcome mat... It's the curtains and the carpet... it's our snugly blankets and beloved teddies... and all our clothes! But what is it all made from? And how? Join textiles expert Emma Peters as we follow the journey of cotton from field to fabric.

How is fabric made?

Every morning and every night we have to get the toothpaste and our toothbrushes and clean our teeth... But why? Let's visit dentist Dr Mihiri Silva for a check up and learn why it's so important to look after our teeth.

How did people come up with words?

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