Future scientists use bandages and balloons to create self-propelled gondola
Design Challenge: a team of students building a self-propelled gondola with a dust mask, Post-it notes, bandages, balloons and other 3M materials.
Some of the area’s brightest future scientists were on campus recently for the Let’s Talk Science Challenge.
Approximately 230 Grade 6, 7 and 8 students from 18 local schools participated in the event that challenged students’ knowledge of science, technology, engineering and math.
The day began with a science quiz show in which students worked in teams to answer jeopardy-style questions in the areas of chemistry, earth sciences, mathematics and biotechnology.
The second half of the day challenged students’ creativity and ability to ‘think outside the box’ with a design task. A box containing a dust mask, Post-it notes, bandages, balloons and other 3M materials were all students had to work with in order to build a self-propelled gondola in less than 30 minutes.
The winning teams were chosen based on the combined results of both the quiz show and the design challenge: first place was Team CWSA from Claude Watson School for the Arts (Toronto), second place was Exploding Atomorum from Westview Elementary (Hamilton) and third place was 2pm, also from Westview Elementary.
“The Let’s Talk Science Challenge develops problem-solving and teamwork skills in a positive, competitive environment,” said Bonnie Schmidt, president and founder of Let’s Talk Science. “Students who participate in this extracurricular science activity develop positive attitudes towards science, technology, engineering and math learning that help keep them interested in these areas when they move on to high school.”
“In a world that is increasingly shaped by science and technology, Let’s Talk Science supports student learning and engagement through science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” said Schmidt. “This ensures Canadian youth are prepared for the jobs and skills of the future.”
Let’s Talk Science began at McMaster in 2005 by volunteers before growing to become a national charitable organization. This event was one of 23 competitions happening across the country. Let’s Talk Science creates and deliver unique learning programs and services that engage children, youth and educators in science, technology, engineering and math. They strive to prepare youth for their future careers and role as citizens in a rapidly changing world.
For more information about Let’s Talk Science, visit www.letstalkscience.ca.
