06th Feburary 2010
Science Fares Well At Montessori
Stan Bishop

Judging from its ninth annual science fair last week, the Montessori Centre sure seems to keep its pupils sharp, especially in the field of science.
Held at its Rodney Heights location over a two-day period, the fair was the buzz on the minds of the many pupils who, teachers admitted, look forward to each year. And for good reason.
During those special two days, the kids, who are categorized in ages ranging from 5 to 12, get the chance to show off their scientific knowledge through displays. In fact, this year some 157 kids did just that. And no scientific idea seemed off-limits.
From the medicinal properties of local leaves to the effects of soil and water erosion to what actually makes popcorn pop, the pupils seemed to have done their homework well. There were also things to do with how to make glow, exploring the effects of temperature on bubbles, how to pick up salt using pieces of ice suspended on a piece of string and using a solar cooker made of cardboard and aluminum foil to heat a hotdog!

And if you thought the kids couldn’t explain how a stem engine works, what density is and how an electric circuit operates, (and yes, what are earthquakes), think again. The Montessori Centre seemed a scale model of the recently-held Copenhagen Summit.
According to the school’s science coordinator, Miss Liz Altifois, the kids get the opportunity to choose whatever scientific principle they wish to portray. With little (or no) assistance from teachers, they explore the iea and gradually the projects take shape.
But apart from the mere displays, each kid must also explain to the judges on the days what their projects are all about. Even the judges seem mystified by the rational and philosophical narratives that accompany such explanations.
And then, after two days of friendly scientific showcasing, each pupil is awarded a trophy for participation. Overall winners in the respective categories are also awarded top prizes and pupils also get a chance to win in categories such as Best Explanation and Most Creative.

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