WAIMEA — Have you ever taken a close look at a cow’s heart? The students at Waimea Country School (WCS) have, and they were happy to share their knowledge recently in their school-wide science fair.
WAIMEA — Have you ever taken a close look at a cow’s heart? The students at Waimea Country School (WCS) have, and they were happy to share their knowledge recently in their school-wide science fair.
Guest scientists from Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope, W. M. Keck Observatory and the FARM Center were on hand to talk with all students in the school about their projects and give them feedback.
Students appreciated the one-on-one time spent with each of the scientists, making the science fair a powerful learning experience rather than just a time to display projects. Making connections between the classroom and the community is an important part of the learning process at WCS.
Children in all levels at the school participated in the interactive fair by teaching each other about different science topics. The Ohia K/1st multiage class shared some of their favorite experiments they’ve been conducting over the past two months as they’ve learned about the scientific process.
Students in the 2nd/3rd grade multiage class ran stations teaching about six of the most vital systems of the human body. Other students shared models, including an articulated hand made of cardboard, straws and string, and helped visitors understand what neurons are by making their own with pipe cleaners and beads. The biggest hit was the fresh cow heart on display, which students used to explain the workings of the circulatory system.
The 4th and 5th grade students were required to complete individual projects, posing a question, making a hypothesis and using the scientific process to test it. The projects ranged from testing the dyes used in common candies to measuring the intensity of UV rays to using the sun to desalinate ocean water.
It was a day rich in learning at Waimea Country School. Head of School Amy Salling summed up the day this way, “The science fair at Waimea Country School is about teaching and learning. When students are challenged to explain their thinking and are asked questions that require reasoning and thoughtfulness, they deepen their understanding and gain confidence in themselves. And it is a fun event for all.”
