Science fair proves fun, enlightening experience
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RONAN — An array of science experiments turned out to be an academic treat for the students at K. William Harvey on Friday afternoon.
The delightful science fair boasted 22 fifth-grade students, who displayed their diverse experiments in the gymnasium of the school. The class invited other students, staff members and teachers to attend.
Even some community members strolled around the gym, observing the elementary projects that ranged from physics to biology.
“This is the first time I’ve ever been to a science fair,” Fifth-grader Harley Shepard said. His experiment involved a watch battery and two lemons.
“It’s actually kind of fun,” he explained, grinning.
Teacher of the class, Jane Whaling taught in Alaska before taking a teaching position at K. William Harvey. Whaling believes that the science fair gives children the opportunity to do hands-on projects. She uses the science fair to teach students about the correct procedure to use when conducting scientific experiments.
“It’s the scientific process,” Whaling said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
The excited children eagerly explained their project to any passerby who would listen, including the younger students at the school.
“I want them to love science,” Whaling said. “I want them to be scientists.”
She explained that math and science are important fields to study. She also implied that there will be many professional math and science opportunities available in the future, so it’s critical to get kids interested in science now.
The little scientists worked on their experiments for a month prior to Friday, researching weekly and observing their projects daily. Some of the students watched plants grow, using a variety of manure. Others experimented with a concoction they called slime, and other groups observed what kind of water sea monkeys could survive in.
But all students expressed their enthusiasm in their explanation of their science fair project, especially to the younger children.
And it’s an experimental experience that the children hope to repeat.
“I think if we have a science fair next year, I’ll probably do this, but bigger,” explained Shepard.
