BT YSTE 2015 Exhibition Guide

20 5 RDS DUBLIN / 8 -10 JAN.

550

Amazing Projects competing for BT Young Scientist of the Year

5 Exhibition Halls crammed with exciting things to see and do!

EXHIBITION GUIDE www.btyoungscientist.com

Bail ó Dhia ort agus fáilte chuig Taispeántas Teicneolaíochta & Eolaí Óg BT. Is é 2015 an 51ú bliain den taispeántas agus arís eile tá clár imeachtaí den scoth againn anseo duit ag an RDS sna laethanta beaga seo amach romhainn.

Tá ríméad orm a rá go bhfuil éacht déanta againn i mbliana nach ndearnamar riamh cheana ó thaobh líon na dtionscadal ar cuireadh isteach orthu agus líon na mac léinn a bhí rannpháirteach i dtionscadal. Is mar gheall ar an méid tallainne atá againn ar an oileán beag seo gur lean an taispeántas ag dul i méid i measc an phobail gach bliain agus é mar shampla thar barr d’imeachtaí eile den chineál céanna ar fud an domhain.

Agus ní hiad na mic léinn atá rannpháirteach i mbliana an t-aon dream atá ag ardú an chaighdeáin. D’éirigh le roinnt de na hiar-bhuaiteoirí go leor a bhaint amach ar leibhéal idirnáisiúnta le déanaí anuas. I mí Mheán Fómhair, d’éirigh le Paul Clarke a bhain Teicneolaí agus Eolaí Óg BT amach in 2014 an 2ú háit a bhaint amach i gcomórtas Eolaí Óg an AE i Vársá. Gairid ina dhiaidh sin d’éirigh le buaiteoirí chomórtas 2013 Ciara Judge, Sophie Healy Thow agus Emer Hickey an chéad duais a fháil ag Aonach Idirnáisiúnta Eolaíochta Google in California agus tugadh onóir mhór dóibh nuair a ainmníodh iad i liosta na hirise TIME den 25 déagóir is

mó tionchair ar domhan. Nuair a fhéachaimid ar na hiontrálacha a fuaireamar le haghaidh thaispeántas na bliana seo, níl aon amhras orm ach go bhfuil sé de chumas ag ár rannpháirtithe reatha cur tuilleadh leis an rath sin in 2015.

Gheobhaidh tusa deis sna laethanta beaga seo amach romhainn iniúchadh a dhéanamh ar Thaispeántas Teicneolaíochta agus Eolaí Óg BT agus turas a fháil den 550 tionscadal atá ar an ngearrliosta i mbliana.

Feicfidh tú féin an obair chrua, na huaireanta fada agus an síor-chúram a thugann na mic léinn do na tionscadail seo agus go deimhin na múinteoirí a thacaíonn agus a spreagann iad lena gcuid smaointe a fhorbairt. Gan trácht ar an 82 moltóir breá atá againn, ar lucht gairme a bhfuil taithí mhór acu iad go léir i réimsí gnó agus STEM, agus a thugann a gcuid ama gach bliain chun moltóireacht a dhéanamh ar na tionscadail.

Is minic a fhiafraítear dom cén fáth a n-eagraíonn BT an taispeántas seo agus cén fáth a bhfuilimid ina bhun le cúig bliana déag anuas. Is é an freagra a thugaim ná go gcreidimid i ndáiríre i gcumhacht na heolaíochta, na teicneolaíochta, na hinnealtóireachta agus na matamaitice, agus na daoine cumasacha taobh thiar dóibh, d’fhonn saol níos fearr a chruthú.

Le beagnach 170 bliain tá BT i mbun taighde agus forbartha ar theicneolaíochtaí nua lenar athraíodh an bealach a dhéanaimid cumarsáid mar shochaí agus mar a mhairimid ó lá go lá. Mar sin gach bliain, tugaimid ar bhfoireann mhór d’os cionn 200 fostaí BT le chéile agus cuirimid an taispeántas seo ar fáil agus fios againn go bhfuilimid ag déanamh ár gcion, más beag féin é, chun smaointeoirí, anailísithe, teicneolaithe, matamaiticeoirí, eolaithe agus innealtóirí na todhchaí a chothú.

Mar sin féin, ní bheimis in ann an taispeántas seo a chur ar fáil asainn féin agus ní mór buíochas speisialta a ghabháil lenár gcomhpháirtithe tiomanta lena n-áirítear an Roinn Oideachais & Scileanna i bPoblacht na hÉireann, RTÉ, Fearais Analógacha, Elan, Intel, Perrigo, agus an Roinn Oideachais i dTuaisceart Éireann, gan trácht ar lear mór lucht tacaíochta eile a fheicfidh tú liostaithe sa treoir seo. Ba mhaith liom freisin buíochas a ghabháil lenár moltóirí clúiteacha, na múinteoirí, na tuismitheoirí agus lucht eagraithe BT a thug a gcuid ama go flaithiúil ionas go dtarlóidh an ócáid seo bliain i ndiaidh bliana. Níos tábhachtaí fós, ba mhaith liom buíochas a ghabháil leis na mic léinn iad féin as an bhfuinneamh agus as an díograis a léiríonn siad don taispeántas.

Chomh maith leis an 550 tionscadal a bheidh ar taispeáint an tseachtain seo, tá lear mór lucht taispeántais, lucht siamsaíochta agus míreanna speisialta den scoth againn. Is ócáid é seo don teaghlach go léir mar sin tá súil agam go dtaitneoidh an taispeántas leat agus go bhfágann tú an áit seo agus an mórtas céanna agat inár ndaoine óga cumasacha agus atá againne in BT.

Bain sult as do chuairt agus guím gach rath ar gach duine a bheidh rannpháirteach.

Colm O’Neill

Príomhfheidhmeannach, BT Ireland Tá BT ar cheann de na sár-chomhlachtaí cummarsáide agus seirbhísí teicneolaíochta fáisnéise ar domhan. Le breis eolais a fháil, tabhair cuairt ar www.btireland.com

Hello and welcome to the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition.

2015 marks the 51st year of the exhibition and once again we have a superb programme of events for you to enjoy here at the RDS over the coming days.

done so for the past fifteen years. The answer is that we truly believe in the power of science, technology, engineering and maths, and the great minds behind them, to create a better world. For almost 170 years BT has researched and developed new technologies that have altered how we communicate as a society and how we go about our daily lives. So each year, we gather together our extensive team of over 200 BT employees and deliver this exhibition in the knowledge that we are playing our small part in cultivating the great thinkers, analysts, technologists, mathematicians, scientists and engineers of the future.

I’m delighted to announce that this year we have broken all previous records for the number of projects entered and the number of students who participated in a project. It’s a testament to the breadth of talent we have on this small island that the exhibition has continued to grow in popularity every year and has become a shining example for other similar events across the world.

However, we could not deliver this exhibition alone and special thanks must go to our dedicated partners including the Department of Education & Skills in the Republic of Ireland, RTE, Analog Devices, Elan, Intel, Perrigo, and the Department of Education in Northern Ireland, not to mention a host of others supporters whom you’ll find listed in this guide. I would also like to thank our esteemed judges, the teachers, the parents and the BT Redcoats who all give so freely of their time to make this event happen year on year. Most importantly, I would like to thank the students themselves for the boundless energy and enthusiasm they bring to the exhibition.

And it’s not just this year’s participating students that are helping to raise the bar. Some of our former winners have gone on to achieve great success on an international level in recent times. In September, we saw our 2014 BT Young Scientist & Technologist Paul Clarke win 2nd prize at the EU Young Scientist competition in Warsaw. This was quickly followed by our 2013 winners Ciara Judge, Sophie Healy Thow and Emer Hickey who scooped first prize at the international Google Science Fair in California and were honoured in TIME magazine’s list of the 25 most influential teenagers in the world. Judging by the entries we have received for this year’s exhibition, I have no doubt that our current participants have the potential to raise the bar of success even higher in 2015.

As well as the 550 school projects on display this week, we also have a fantastic line-up of exhibitors, entertainers and outstanding special acts. There is something here for all the family so I hope that you enjoy the exhibition and that you leave here with the same sense of pride in our talented young people as we do in BT.

Over the coming days you will have the opportunity to explore the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition and enjoy a tour of the 550 projects that have been shortlisted this year. You will see for yourself how much hard work, long hours and relentless commitment goes into these projects by the students and indeed the teachers who support and encourage them in developing their ideas. Not to mention our 82 highly esteemed judges, all highly experienced professionals in the fields of business and STEM, who give their time freely each year to judge the projects.

I’m often asked why BT organises this exhibition and why we have

Enjoy your visit and I wish the very best of luck to all involved.

Colm O’Neill

Chief executive officer, BT Ireland

BT is one of the world’s leading communications and IT services companies. For more information on BT in Ireland, visit www.btireland.com

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The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015 is proudly sponsored and supported by;

4 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

Suirbhéireacht Gheolaíochta Éireann Geological Survey of Ireland

ONLINE SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR PROJECT MATHS

PHARMA CHEMICAL IRELAND

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The BT Young Scientist & Technologist of the Year 2014 is Paul Clarke from St Paul’s College, Raheny, County Dublin.

THE

AWARDS MAIN AWARDS Here are all the awards that will be presented at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015.

BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of the Year 2015 Individual or Group • BT Young Scientist(s) of the Year Trophy (perpetual) • Cheque for €5,000 / £4,500 • The chance to represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists Best Individual or Best Group • BT Trophy (perpetual) • Cheque for €2,400 / £2,160 Runner-up Individual and Runners-up Group • BT Trophy (perpetual) • Cheque for €1,200 / £1,080 Please note if the title BT Young Scientist & Technologist of the Year is awarded to an Individual, a Best Group Award will also be made. If the title BT Young Scientist of the Year is awarded to a Group, a Best Individual Award will be made.

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CATEGORY AWARDS There are 36 prizes for Individuals and 36 prizes for Group projects. The prizes take the form of 1st, 2nd and 3rd in Junior, Intermediate and Senior sections of each of the four categories: • Biological and Ecological Sciences • Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences • Social and Behavioural Sciences • Technology The prizes are: • 1st prize of €300 / £270 for both Individual and Group projects • 2nd prize of €225 / £202 for both Individual and Group projects • 3rd prize of €150 / £135 for both Individual and Group projects In the event of a tie in any category, the prize money will be split equally. A number of Highly Commended and Display awards will also be awarded in each category by the panel of judges.

REVEREND DR TOM BURKE BURSARY Fr Tom was one of the co-founders of the project and sadly passed away in 2008. In memory of his contribution to the project, a €1,000 bursary is awarded in his name to an individual participant who is deemed by the judges as the best communicator. This will be paid to a student to help them in their second/third level education.

This bursary will be open to participants of all categories across all age groups - but the winner cannot be either the overall Individual Winner or Runner Up.

STUDENT AWARDS

EDUCATOR OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS

• Analog Devices Student Award

These awards will be presented to the teachers whose commitment and encouragement have consistently enabled their students to participate successfully in the following subject areas for the purpose of the exhibition: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Technology and Computing.

This award is presented to an individual or group for outstanding work exhibited in the Technology category, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of the Year. The prize consists of a trophy and an all expenses paid trip to America as the guests of Analog Devices, visiting San Francisco and Los Angeles.

In addition, Analog Devices will donate €2,500 to the school of the winning student(s) as a contribution towards its science laboratory equipment fund.

• Intel Student Award This award is presented to an individual or group for outstanding work exhibited in the Chemical, Physical & Mathematical Sciences category, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of the Year. The prize is an all-expenses paid trip to the USA to compete in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from May 10-15, 2015. The teacher/mentor of the winner(s) of this award will also receive an allexpenses paid trip to ISEF.

• Analog Devices Educator of Excellence Award The winner receives the Analog Devices Trophy and an all-expenses paid trip to America.

• Intel Educator of Excellence Award The winner will receive the Intel Trophy and an all-expenses paid trip to the USA to attend the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair which takes place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from May 10-15 2015. The selected teacher will also have the opportunity to attend sessions at the Intel Educator Academy.

• Perrigo Student Award Perrigo will be offering an award in the Biological and Ecological category to the best placed project, either group or individual, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of the Year. Final details of this award will be announced at the awards ceremony.

• RTÉ Student Award RTÉ will be offering an award in the Social and Behavioural Sciences category to the best placed project, either group or individual, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of the Year. Final details of this award will be announced at the awards ceremony.

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Special awards We are pleased and proud to have a fabulous range of Special Awards at this year’s Exhibition. Each award is industry-sponsored and details of each organisation and awards can be found on the Awards section of our website www.btyoungscientist.com

Full details of all the Special Awards and the criteria for each can be found on our website www.btyoungscientist.com

This year Special Awards will be presented by our partner organisations. Special Awards recognise excellence in specific areas, examples include projects which have a focus on innovation in technology, physics, chemistry, sustainability, recycling, the environment, research or improving cancer awareness.

Each year two school awards are made, one for Best School in Northern Ireland presented by MATRIX and one for Best School in Republic of Ireland presented by NAPD. These are presented on a points based system and cannot be won by the same school in a three year period.

Schools awards

Suirbhéireacht Gheolaíochta Éireann Geological Survey of Ireland

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BT Young Scientist & Technology Judges 2015 SOCIAL & BEHAVIOURAL SCIENCES Prof Joe Barry Dr Barry Brunt Annette Cahalane Prof Catherine Comiskey Dr Catherine Conlon Dr Almar Ennis Ciaran Ennis

Dr Frances Fahy Dr Domnall Fleming Dr Yseult Freeney Dr Kevin Hourihan Dr Jones Irwin Dr Angela Leahy Eoin MacCuirc

Dr Maeve Martin Michelle McCarthy Severs Aebhric McGibney Lynda McSweeney Prof Des McCafferty Nora NicAodha Dr Elizabeth Nixon

Prof Ian Robertson Aidan Ryan David Silke Prof Anthony Staines Dr Joanne Stuart Prof James Williams

CHEMICAL, PHYSICAL & MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES Prof Tom Brazil Dr Mike Byrne Prof Stephen Connon Prof Sean Corish Prof Padraig Dunne Prof Orla Feely

Prof Pat Guiry Dr Graeme Horley Prof Tom Laffey Dr Michael McGrath Dr Ronan McNulty Aoibhinn Ni Shuilleabhain

Dr Fergal O’Reilly Dr Rachel Quinlan Dr Tony Scott Dr Emma Sokell

Colm Buckley Dr Sarah Jane Delany Prof Linda Doyle John Dunnion Dr Carol Gibbons Prof Jim Greer

Leonard Hobbs Joe Hogan Bill Hunt Barry Kennedy Noel King Aaron McCormack

Ann O’Sullivan Dr Diarmuid O’Brien Tom O’Dwyer Dr Mary Shire

Dr Jervis Good Prof Marie Guidon Prof Des Higgins Dr Mary Kelly-Quinn Dr Grace McCormack Prof Jennifer McElwain

Prof Deirdre McGrath Dr John Monahan Prof Ian Montgomery Prof Niall Moyna Prof Grace Mulcahy Dr Kathy O’Boyle

TECHNOLOGY

BIOLOGICAL & ECOLOGICAL SCIENCES Dr Donagh Berry Dr Sarah Culloty Prof Michael Doherty Prof Liam Dolan Dr Evelyn Doyle Hubert Fuller

BT CHAIRPERSON Maureen Walkingshaw

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Prof John O’Halloran Prof Donal O’Shea Dr Brid Quilty Dr Dagmar Stengal

SPECIAL AWARDS CHAIRPERSON Professor Eoin O’Neill

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Quick search - Project category Social and Behavioural Sciences

Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Technology

Biological and Ecological Sciences

1100 - 1618

2100 - 2613

3100 - 3611

4100 - 4616

Quick search - School name Antrim Antrim Grammar School

1595, 2539

Ballyclare High School

2532

St Killian’s College

Christian Brothers College

1214, 1613

Clonakilty Community College

3506, 4510

Coláiste Choilm

3505, 3603

Wellington College

4421

Cavan Breifne College

1503

Loreto College

2509, 4538

Clare Kilrush Community School

4513

Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna 1103, 1301, 4102, 4206, 4301, 4410, 4417, 4419, 4423, 4428 1303, 1402, 3401

Rice College

4101

Scoil Mhuire

2529, 4549, 4611

St John Bosco Community College

1424, 2408

Cork Ardscoil Uí Urmoltaigh

Coláiste Muire - Crosshaven

4506

Coláiste Na Toirbhirte

1204, 1580, 4555

Coláiste Pobal Bheanntrai

1431, 4434

Colaiste Treasa

1583

Glanmire Community College

Ennis Community College, Gaelcholaíste an Chlaír 1427, 4112

Meánscoil Na Mbráithre

1412, 1422, 1512, 1524, 1556, 1604, 2505, 2511, 3602, 4107, 4517, 4519, 4542, 4544

1541, 1572, 3514

Bandon Grammar School

1110, 1206, 1410, 1420, 1425, 1428, 1434, 1522, 1552, 2410, 2526, 3526, 4213, 4433, 4539, 4548

Kinsale Community School 1101, 1109, 1400, 1403, 1405, 1501, 1505, 1511, 1520, 1543, 1592, 2413, 2417, 2501, 2510, 3511, 3517, 4402, 4408, 4413, 4568, 4603 Midleton College

4300, 4530

Millstreet Community School

3411, 4108

Mount St Michael

2209

North Monastery Secondary School

4525

Pobalscoil na Tríonóide

1606

Presentation College

2514, 2518, 4217, 4609

Regina Mundi College

1564

Sacred Heart Secondary School

Boherbue Comprehensive School

1581

Schull Community College

Christ King Girls Secondary School

2207

Christ King Girls Secondary School

4215

10 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

2612, 3611

Patrician Academy

2519 1611, 4518

1540, 1558, 1569, 4536

Mount Mercy College

Bishopstown Community School Carrigaline Community School

3530, 4214

2211, 2531, 3523

1528, 1545, 1603, 4106, 4414

Scoil Mhuire Scoil Mhuire gan Smál - Blarney Scoil Mhuire gan Smál - Blarney

1413 1419, 1561, 1588, 3402, 3533, 4514, 4545

St Aloysius College

4543

Jesus and Mary Secondary School, Our Lady’s Grove

St Aloysius School

1415

Loreto Abbey Secondary School

1514

1519, 1568, 4435

St Mary’s High School

1504, 2310, 3203

Loreto College - Foxrock

St Mary’s Secondary School - Mallow

2401, 4405, 4561

Loreto College - St Stephens Green 1106, 1205, 1418, 2103, 3531, 4111, 4426, 4564

Donegal Coláiste Ailigh

1302, 1587, 4306, 4403, 4407, 4409, 4411, 4416, 4424, 4508

Loreto Convent - Letterkenny

1567, 2537

Magh Ene College

4512, 4613

Moville Community College

4302

Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair

2521, 3502, 3521

St Eunan’s College

4201

Down Abbey Christian Brothers School

2607

New-Bridge Integrated College

4612

South Eastern Regional College - Bangor Campus 4607, 4616 St Colman’s College

4559

St Louis Grammar School

3400, 3406, 3410

Dublin Alexandra College Ardgillan Community College

1597, 2308 2102, 2309, 4104, 4209

Belvedere College

1614, 3305

Blackrock College

1201, 3309

C.B.S. Westland Row

4422

Castleknock College

4550

Clonkeen College Coláiste Chilliain Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan Colaiste Pobail Setanta Dominican College - Drumcondra Fingal Community College

1508, 1531 3408, 1548, 1562 1100, 1615, 2201, 2208, 2303, 2402, 3500, 4522 1414 1518, 1539, 1542, 1557 1500, 1521

Gaelcholáiste an Phiarsaigh

4436

Gaelcholáiste Reachrann

2515

Gonzaga College

2506, 2609, 3607

Holy Child Secondary School

1417, 1507, 2204

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1212, 1553, 1591, 2414, 4557

Loreto High School

1509, 1532

Loreto Secondary School - Balbriggan 1406, 1426, 1529, 3205, 4200, 4207, 4415, 4515 Luttrellstown Community College Malahide Community School

3609 1102, 1610

Mount Sackville Secondary School

1590

Newpark Comprehensive School

1209, 2200

Our Ladys School - Templeogue

2407

Rockbrook Park School

3308

Sandford Park School Ltd

1584

Skerries Community College

3528

St Andrew’s College

2611, 4100

St Colmcille’s Community School

1549, 3512

St Declan’s College

3103

St Dominics College

3605

St Joseph Of Cluny

4406

St Kevins College

1607

St Louis High School

2516, 4534

Sutton Park School

2203, 3101, 3202, 4400, 4507

Synge Street CBS

2101, 2206, 2301, 2304, 2311, 2403, 2603, 2604, 2610

Tallaght Community School

1516, 1601, 2601

The Kings Hospital

4109

The Teresian School - Donnybrook

2538

Galway Coláiste Bhaile Chláir Colaiste Cholmcille Coláiste Iognáid S.J.

1423, 3416 4608 1210, 2210

Coláiste Mhuire

4216

Coláiste Naomh Eoin

3106

Dominican College - Galway

1526

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Galway (continued)

Leitrim

Garbally College

1544, 1609, 2307

Ballinamore Community School

4202

Portumna Community School

4437, 4551, 4563

Carrick-On-Shannon Community School

4520

Presentation College

3536

Seamount College

2530

St Joseph’s College - Galway

4604

St. Mary’s College

1409, 1534, 4418

Kerry Causeway Comprehensive School

3608, 4532

Coláiste Bhréanainn

2507

Coláiste na Sceilge

1612

Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí

1111, 2533

Killorglin Community College

3404

Presentation Secondary School - Milltown

1213

St. Clare’s Comprehensive School

Limerick Ardscoil Ris

1547, 3409

Castletroy College

1200, 3209

Colaiste Ide and Iosef

1207, 3525

Coláiste Iósaef

1407, 1515, 1550, 1574, 1589, 1602

Desmond College

2100, 2400, 2404, 3100, 3201, 3303, 3403, 3405, 3501, 3504, 3520, 3601, 3606, 4500, 4504, 4601, 4605

Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh

2300, 3503, 4212

John The Baptist Community School 1208, 1510, 1535, 1582, 3206, 3515, 4516, 4521 Laurel Hill Secondary School FCJ

Kildare Clongowes Wood College

2600

Kildare Town Community School 1429, 1575, 1598, 1618, 2416, 2613, 4113, 4569, 4606, 4615 Maynooth Post Primary School

St Nessan’s Community College

4105

Oakgrove Integrated College

Patrician Secondary School - Newbridge

1605, 2205

St Columb’s College

1215

St Farnan’s Post Primary School

1579, 4554

St Wolstan’s Community School

1538

St Mary’s College

3304, 4438 1565, 4501, 4505

Grennan College

1546, 1586

Kilkenny College

3204 1401, 4503

St Kieran’s College

2522

Laois Heywood Community School

2602 2202, 2212, 2305, 2500, 2512, 3301, 4203, 4210

St Mary’s Limavady

2520, 2608

Ballymahon Vocational School

1563, 1570

Lanesboro Community College

1107, 1211, 4432, 4547

Mercy Secondary School - Longford

3524

Templemichael College

1433

Louth

Loreto Secondary School - Kilkenny 1576, 1578, 1616, 4556 Meánscoil na mBráithre Criostaí

2412, 3513

Longford

Kilkenny Coláiste Pobal Osraí - Kilkenny

3600

Londonderry

1105, 4304

Salesian College - Celbridge

1554

Salesian Secondary College, Pallaskenry 2306, 3417, 3529, 3535, 3538, 4431

Newbridge College

Coláiste Mhuire

2606, 3207

1300, 1617

St. Mary’s C.B.S.

12 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

3105

Bush Post Primary School

1411, 1525, 1530, 3510

Coláiste Rís

3307

De La Salle College

3102

Dundalk Grammar School

1416

O Fiaich College

4567

Our Ladys College - Drogheda

2104

Our Ladys College - Drogheda

2525, 4305

St Vincent’s Secondary School

2523, 4303, 4526, 4535

C.B.S. Thurles

3208, 3509, 3610, 4562

Cistercian College

1593, 4531

Colaiste Dun Iascaigh

Mayo

4558

Jesus & Mary Secondary School

1585

Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed

Mount St Michael

1203

Presentation Secondary School - Thurles

St Muredachs College

1551

St. Patrick’s College

3104

Meath Loreto Secondary School - Navan

1536, 2409, 2517

St Oliver Post Primary

3407

St Patrick’s Classical School

3414

St Peter’s College - Dunboyne

4404

Monaghan Coláiste Oiriall

1217, 4420

Our Lady’s Secondary School - Monaghan Patrician High School - Carrickmacross St. Macartan’s College

3302 2536, 3200, 4211 4527, 4533

Offaly Colaiste Choilm

3300

Gallen Community School

1404, 3412

Sacred Heart Secondary School

1573, 2415

St. Brendan’s Community School

3537

Tullamore College

4110, 4546

Roscommon C.B.S. Roscommon

2504, 4509, 4528, 4541

Roscommon Community College

4502

Scoil Mhuire gan Smál - Roscommon 1513, 1517, 1523, 1527, 1600, 2502, 2513, 2527, 2534, 4511, 4524, 4529, 4540 Scoil Mhuire Strokestown

1566, 2605, 4412, 4602, 4614

St Nathy’s College

2302, 2406

Jesus & Mary Secondary School

4560

Summerhill College

3413

Tipperary

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1560, 3415, 3532, 4552, 4566

Scoil Ruain

1104

St Joseph’s College

3508

St. Mary’s Secondary School

1555, 1559

Tyrone St Ciaran’s High School

1430

Waterford Blackwater Community School

4537

De La Salle College

1216, 3519

Gael Choláist Phort Láirge

2503, 4565

St Augustines College

3527

Westmeath Athlone Community College

1202, 4425

Marist College - Athlone

3534

Moate Community School

2508, 4205

Mullingar Community College

4600

Our Lady’s Bower

1506, 2528, 2535

St Aloysius College

3306, 3516

Wexford Ramsgrange Community School

4430

Wicklow Arklow Community College

1432

Avondale Community College

1408, 2405, 3507, 4401, 4429

Avondale Community College

4523

Coláiste Bhríde

1108, 1571, 1577, 1594, 4553, 4610

Dominican College

Sligo

Borrisokane Community College

1533, 3604

Gaelcholaiste Na Mara - Arklow Loreto Secondary School

1421, 1608, 2411, 2524 3522, 4204, 4427 1596, 3518, 4208 4103

1502, 1537

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Social & Behavioural Sciences JUNIOR INDIVIDUAL 1100

Title: Rememberability vs. guessability: Entropy and human factors in password creation Overview: To determine whether there is a connection between the human factor in password composition/ usage and the relative entropy of the password.

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jacqueline Farrell Student(s): Cian Tormey

1101

Title: A statistical study on the public’s attitude towards female participation and aggression control in mixed gender martial arts Overview: I am investigating the public’s attitudes towards aggression control and anger levels in martial arts and also the stigma attached to female participation in martial arts.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Jennifer McCarthy

1102

Title: Children’s diets in transition from primary to secondary school Overview: To find out how children’s lifestyles and diets change in their transition from primary to secondary school and why these changes occur.

School: Malahide Community School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Caroline Tighe Student(s): Aisling Lynch

1103

Title: The geography of the voting patterns in the Eurovision song contest Overview: I am looking to see if there is a geographical aspect to the way votes are cast in the Eurovision song contest.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Fearghal Burke

1104

Title: An investigation into postprimary school teacher understanding of dyslexia and the school experiences of post-primary school students with dyslexia Overview: My project aims to assess post-primary teacher understanding of dyslexia and to see if this is reflexed by dyslexic student’s experiences.

School: Scoil Ruain County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Margaret O’Neill Student(s): Joseph Mee

1105

Title: How password savvy are you?

Overview: I aim to check the strength of passwords and educate my peers on the importance of online security.

School: Newbridge College County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Anne Marie Davis Student(s): Aoife Ryan

1106

Title: An investigation to determine techniques to help reduce B and D reversal Overview: I am investigating methods to help students with dyslexia, specifically addressing the B and D reversal problem.

School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jennifer Campbell Student(s): Adrianne Ward

1107

Title: “For behind the parent stood the school and behind the teacher the home” - Does parental involvement in education improve academic outcomes?

Overview: To demonstrate that parental involvement in numeracy/ literacy is effective in improving outcomes and engagement. I will use specific numeracy/literacy programmes in my school on a 1st year group.

School: Lanesboro Community College County: Longford Teacher: Mr Michael Lyons Student(s): Brian Lyons

Overview: For my project, I would like to investigate why students feel it is okay not to wear seatbelts on buses.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Carena McCarthy Student(s): Kendra Kingston

1111

Title: Astuithe dé-ocsáid charbóin agus básanna ar na bóithre a laghdú: Cé chomh maith ar an eolas go bhfuil tiománaithe na hÉireann? (Reducing carbon dioxide emissions and road deaths) Overview: To establish how knowledgeable Irish professional drivers are of fuel efficient and safe driving techniques that will result in reducing carbon emissions and road deaths.

School: Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí County: Kerry Teacher: Ms Elaine Ní Dheargáin Student(s): Laura Ní Eidhin

INTERMEDIATE INDIVIDUAL 1200

Title: Sugar tax: To be or not to be Overview: My project aims to reflect my community’s opinion about the sugar tax proposed by the government and the risks of sugar and obesity.

School: Castletroy College County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Linda Hannon Student(s): Tamara Mahdi

1201

Title: Have iPads facilitated enquirybased learning in schools?

Overview: I want to investigate whether iPads improve the teaching and learning in my school, as it was advertised it would. I will examine teaching practices.

School: Coláiste Bhríde County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Miriam Rickerby Student(s): Grace Hennessy

Title: An analysis of teenagers’ knowledge of the Ebola virus and current crisis Overview: To test teenagers’ knowledge of the Ebola virus and current crisis affecting West Africa, using survey questions and comparing it to methods of obtaining this information.

School: Blackrock College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Hugo Rowsome Student(s): Scott Donohoe

1109

1202

1108

Title: A statistical study on people’s attitudes and awareness of allergies and anaphylaxis Overview: I will investigate the general population’s attitudes and awareness of allergies/anaphylaxis to provide insight to the knowledge and perception of allergies amongst the public.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Mia Hynes

Title: An investigation into the correlation between personality and height in teenage boys Overview: Why does the taller man get the girl, earn more, run the company and become president? Does his teenage height and personality development predict this?

School: Athlone Community College County: Westmeath Teacher: Mr Leo Smith Student(s): Evie McTague

1110

Title: Is the media murdering murder?

Overview: To determine a correlation between Ireland’s murder rate since 1846, media reporting and the degree

Title: Why do students abstain from wearing seatbelts on buses?

14 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

1203

of influence the media have in peoples’ perception of murder.

School: Mount St Michael County: Mayo Teacher: Maureen Commons Student(s): Hannah Allsopp

1204

Title: How an individuals position in their family affects their personality traits and subsequent career choice Overview: My project is an examination of how an individual’s birth order in their family affects their personality traits and also their subsequent career choice.

School: Coláiste Na Toirbhirte County: Cork Teacher: Mr Pat O Leary Student(s): Celine Lordan

1205

Title: Are aptitude tests a fair representation of a student’s ability?

Overview: I want to find out why aptitude tests are used and if they are fair in differentiating students based on their ability.

School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Yseult Whitaker Student(s): Iman Awan

1206

Title: Using Twitter sentiment analysis to determine the happiest county Overview: Determining which county in Ireland is the happiest by Twitter sentiment analysis.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Dr Edward Gash Student(s): Ben O’Regan

1207

Title: What are the effects of exercise on your emotional and mental wellbeing?

Overview: I will be investigating the positive, emotional and mental effects of physical activity / exercise by carrying out various surveys on P.E. classes.

School: Colaiste Ide and Iosef County: Limerick Teacher: Ms. Joannah Kennedy Student(s): Darragh O’Connell

1208

Title: A statistical analysis of whether segregating males and females for P.E. will increase participation and physical activity levels Overview: We are constantly told at school/in the newspapers that physical exercise is good for us and important to living a long and healthy life. This is because it is linked to having a healthy heart, preventing diabetes and stopping some cancers. However, it appears from my experiences that

some people choose to miss school P.E./sport because they sometimes have to do it with boys and girls together. I would like to see whether doing some sports in P.E. separately would ensure more people participate in and enjoy the activity. This study will also look at which aspects of P.E. teenagers prefer to do with their own gender, and will make recommendations to help increase the number of pupils doing P.E./school sport.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Michelle Buckley Student(s): Liam Passmore

1209

Title: Why do women stay in STEM careers?

Overview: I want to investigate gender inequality in STEM by collecting data from women who have stayed in these fields.

School: Newpark Comprehensive School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Karen Clarke Student(s): Anna Porter

1210

Title: Cyber contagion - The science behind the ice bucket challenge Overview: A study, using epidemiological models, of how viral fundraisers like the ice bucket challenge spread, and from the results finding the ideal fundraising campaign.

School: Coláiste Iognáid S.J. County: Galway Teacher: Ms Niamh Conway Student(s): Kate Duggan

1211

Title: €2.50 too much? - A statistical analysis of the effect of the GMS fee Overview: The aim of my project is to examine the effect that the GMS charge has had on the medications that patients take.

School: Lanesboro Community College County: Longford Teacher: Ms Mary O’Brien Student(s): Mark Lyons

1212

Title: The quality of fire safety procedure in Irish schools Overview: I wish to find out how prepared primary and secondary schools throughout the country are for the event of a fire.

School: Loreto College - Foxrock County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Helen Hennessy Student(s): Aoife Linehan

1213

Title: An investigation into the influence of gender equality education

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on the attitudes of children towards gender roles in the workforce Overview: I aim to investigate if children should be taught about gender equality in the workforce and what age education is most effective in influencing attitudes.

School: Presentation Secondary School - Milltown County: Kerry Teacher: Mr Denis Maguire Student(s): Emily Cahill

1214

Title: Does scientific research lead to job creation?

Overview: One of the Irish government’s main objectives is to create a knowledge economy. Does money given in grants for scientific research lead to job creation?

School: Christian Brothers College County: Cork Teacher: Mr David O’Connell Student(s): Robert Dinan

1215

Title: How much do Irish teenagers know about Asperger’s syndrome?

Overview: My project aims to investigate the level of understanding of Asperger’s syndrome amongst teenagers in Ireland, especially regarding other young people with high-functioning autism.

School: Salesian College - Celbridge County: Kildare Teacher: Mr. Barry ODonoghue Student(s): Tadhg Carey

1216

Title: A study into T.Y. student’s opinions on computer programming Overview: I want to do a survey, based on coding, of T.Y. students across Waterford. I will also note the attendance of a class I have set up.

School: De La Salle College County: Waterford Teacher: Ms Mary McDonagh Student(s): Evan McConnell

opinions.

School: Heywood Community School County: Laois Teacher: Mr Aodhagan O Suilleabhain Student(s): Lisa Daly

1301

Title: The geography of award winning Young Scientist projects Overview: I am looking at the location of all award winning projects at the Young Scientist competition and how they relate to entries per county.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Deirdre O’Connell

1302

Title: Diagoirí in aghaidh Gardaí? Staidéar a dhéanamh ar an dearcadh atá ag diagoirí I dtreo na Gardaí Overview: In this project, I aim to find out the attitude teenagers in the greater Letterkenny region have towards An Garda Síochana using quantitative survey methods.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Micheál Ó Giobúin Student(s): Hugh Carr

1303

Title: An investigation to discover whether young people participate in prayer and the benefits they receive Overview: For this project, I will be hoping to find out if young people pray, and if they do, what benefits they get from it.

School: Meánscoil Na Mbráithre County: Clare Teacher: Miss Roseanne healy Student(s): Conor Murphy

JUNIOR GROUP 1400

SENIOR INDIVIDUAL

Title: Reading speed, comprehension and recall: A statistical study of iPad vs. paper-based reading in 12-16 year old students Overview: To investigate differences between paper and iPad reading through quantitative and qualitative testing of speed, recall and comprehension in approximately 500 12-16 year old students.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Orlaith Cummins Lucy Plant Amanda Draper

1300

1401

1217

Title: Lámhscríbhneoireacht dochtúirí Vs Daoine eile Overview: Bhí mé ag iarraidh hipitéis faoi scríobhneoireacht dochtúirí dóléite a fhoisrú trí foirmle L2A1S2 a chruthaigh mé.

School: Coláiste Oiriall County: Monaghan Teacher: Ms Jane NicPhaidin Student(s): Aoibhín Ní Fhionnagáin

Title: To P.E., or not to P.E.: Introducing P.E. as an exam subject Overview: To investigate whether or not P.E. as an exam subject would be beneficial and to survey students, parents and P.E. teachers for their

Title: Computer training for senior citizens in the Carlow/Kilkenny area Overview: To find out what the computer training requirements are for elderly people living in Carlow/Kilkenny and to develop a computer training

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package.

School: Meánscoil na mBráithre Criostaí County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Mary B. Lenane Student(s): Ronan McMorrow Dean Kiely Oskar Salvbe

1402

Title: What’s your sense of humour?

Overview: The aim of our project is to find out what most people laugh at and the difference between adults and teenagers.

School: Meánscoil Na Mbráithre County: Clare Teacher: Mr Sean Murphy Student(s): Aaron McGannon Michael Rynne

1403

Title: A statistical study of the effects of the incoming water charges on domestic life Overview: Our project is based on the incoming water charges and how it will affect everyday life. We have done a survey on this matter.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Bethan Lewis Kerri Murphy

1404

Title: Make-up: A true reflection Overview: We wish to investigate how make-up impacts the psycho-social behavior of Irish women, both young and old.

School: Gallen Community School County: Offaly Teacher: Mrs Alma Killian Student(s): Lucy Egan Sophie Gilson

1405

Title: A statistical study on the influence of Aqua Phobia as an impediment to swimming in Irish society Overview: Our project aims to investigate people’s attitude towards swimming and Aqua Phobia. We also hope to discover the effects and causes of this phobia.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Deirdre O Reilly Anna Walsh Cara O Dwyer

1406

Title: The effects of meditation and positivity training on school community members Overview: Using a blood pressure monitor, stress tests, questionnaires, an app and interviews, we investigated the effects of meditation and positivity

www.btyoungscientist.com 15

Social & Behavioural Sciences training on our school community.

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Grainne Enright Student(s): Aoife Conroy Jessica Barbulescu Lauren Murphy

1407

Title: Fear of cities by reputation Overview: Our project is about the fear of cities by reputation and the different opinions people from Irish counties have about their city and other cities.

School: Coláiste Iósaef County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Sharon Magner Student(s): Enda O’Neill Daire Brady Joseph Keating

1408

Title: On Wednesdays we wear pirate hats Overview: A study into whether it is possible for a considerably abnormal social behavior to become a social norm in an environment where it is routinely performed.

School: Avondale Community College County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Aoife Sullivan Student(s): Jake Walsh Emma Holt Eden Bryan

1409

Title: The Goldilocks volume Overview: We are attempting to find the perfect volume of sound for concentration using a Stroop test under varying decibel levels.

School: St. Mary’s College County: Galway Teacher: Mr Anthony Carey Student(s): Thomas Caffrey Dion Darcy Thomas Levalds

1410

Title: The Stroop Effect Overview: For our project we would like to investigate the Stroop Effect and whether there is any correlation between the Stroop Effect and people’s spelling abilities.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Carena McCarthy Student(s): Alison Hathaway Amy Bevan

1411

Title: A statistical analysis investigating the link between intense training at the age of 13-16 and cruciate ligament and hip injury at senior level football Overview: Our project aim is to investigate if cruciate and hip injuries are in any way related to intense training at growth spurt age.

School: Bush Post Primary School

County: Louth Teacher: Ms Emma McMahon Student(s): Deborah Malone Ava O’ Shaughnessy Lillian O’ Reilly

1412

Title: A study into the effects of depression on young people Overview: With the use of surveys, we will be studying how depression and other people’s depression can have an effect on young people.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Julie Hanlon Student(s): Edel O’ Raw Eva Heelan

1413

Title: Stress, distress and mode of birth Overview: This project is testing the hypothesis that mode of delivery (C-section or natural birth) determines how we deal with stress later in life.

School: Scoil Mhuire County: Cork Teacher: Ms Shirley Breen Student(s): Emma Walsh Kate Dinan

1414

Title: The study of the brain’s ability to adopt a foreign body Overview: We are going to conduct experiments on randomly selected participants from our school. We will try to prove that the brain can adopt a foreign body.

School: Colaiste Pobail Setanta County: Dublin Teacher: Miss Roisin Breslin Student(s): Grace Thompson Ioana Uncheasu Milica Stankovic

1415

Title: Do fandoms affect teenagers?

Overview: We want to do this project to find out if “fangirling” affects teenagers. We will carry out a series of surveys and tests.

School: St Aloysius School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Deborah Murray Student(s): Benushila Tripathi Roisin Fahy

1416

Title: An examination of intercultural understanding in Irish schools Overview: Our project investigates intercultural awareness and understanding between students and school policies and practices associated with intercultural understanding in Irish primary and secondary schools.

School: Dundalk Grammar School County: Louth Teacher: Mr. Shane Lynch Student(s): Penny Morris Zoha Khan Roisin Murphy

16 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

1417

Title: Ebooks and iPads or traditional books - Which is better for you?

Overview: We will investigate first year students to see whether symptoms like nausea, dizziness and blurred vision are caused by extended iPad use, or are just coincidental.

School: Holy Child Secondary School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Regina Greehy Student(s): Eanna Ferguson Emer Morton Zahra Farrington

1418

Title: Dublin Bikes: To wear or not to wear Overview: A project researching cyclist behavioural patterns while wearing helmets and not wearing helmets, specifically on Dublin Bikes.

School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Louise Kerr Student(s): Anna Clarke Alexandra Phelan Hannah Mulgrew

1419

Title: Occupations and educational standards of politicians - What we want vs. what we get Overview: Looking at people’s perception of what an ideal politician is, including their educational qualifications, compared to the politicians we in reality have in our constituencies.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Blarney County: Cork Teacher: Mr Sean Foley Student(s): Alex Walsh Isaac Wren Paul Dineen

1420

Title: The power of music Overview: For our project, we are going to be studying how the power of music affects the elderly and people with alzheimers.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Carena McCarthy Student(s): Claire O’ Mahoney Georgie Roche Caoimhe Sanchez

1421

Title: Can we stand to be left alone with our thoughts?

Overview: We investigate whether people can sit in a room by themselves for 10 minutes with only their thoughts.

School: Dominican College - Wicklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr John O’Brien Student(s): Ellie Dunne Laura Whitty

1422

Title: Leaving Certificate bonus points!

Overview: Are the 25 extra points an effective incentive for Leaving Certificate students to undertake higher level maths?

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Lorraine Marron Student(s): Cian Sullivan Cian McCarthy

1423

Title: The ice bucket challenge: An analysis into the internet sensation Overview: A study of the ice bucket challenge to determine ways that could have improved the rate of adoption, and possible impacts on other internet applications.

School: Coláiste Bhaile Chláir County: Galway Teacher: Ms Eleanor Nolan Student(s): Meg Regan Ethan Coogan Emily Sheran

1424

Title: How important is local radio to people living in rural Ireland?

Overview: The importance of local radio in rural communities.

School: St John Bosco Community College County: Clare Teacher: Ms Anna Quilter Student(s): Maire Donnellan Claire McNamara Roisin Coffey

1425

Title: Teenage attitudes towards gay marriage Overview: We will explore teenage attitudes towards gay marriage and the factors that could influence how they will vote, as the 2015 referendum approaches. We will survey secondary students using an anonymous questionnaire.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Paula McGath Student(s): Asha Egan McCutcheon Katie Galvin

1426

Title: Can taking pictures actually make it easier for you to forget?

Overview: Our aim with this project is to discover if taking photographs of things we are learning about can help us to remember them.

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Shauna McGee Student(s): Isabelle Martin Meíbh O’Sullivan

1427

Title: Tionchar na Féinphiceanna Féinmheasa

Overview: Tá muid chun ceistneoir a dhéanamh le dhá céad daltaí faoi féinphiceanna.

School: Ennis Community College, Gaelcholaíste an Chlaír County: Clare Teacher: Ms Martina Mc Namara Student(s): Síofra Ní Chonaill Oileán Ní Laighin

1428

Title: The representation of ethnic minorities in children’s media - Does representation really matter?

Overview: We would like to find out if there is a fair representation of ethnic minorities in children’s media in Ireland, England & America.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Carena McCarthy Student(s): Emily Shilling Erika Jeffers Áine Falvey

1429

Title: Can subliminal messages affect student attainment?

Overview: To see if subliminal messages can affect student performance.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Emma Field Hannah Scully Chloe O Donovan

1430

Title: MED awareness and the effects of it Overview: MED, the physical and emotional effects on people suffering from the disease, inventions that may make that person’s life easier and society’s views on the disease.

School: St Ciaran’s High School County: Tyrone Teacher: Miss Roisin Pearson Student(s): Niamh Conlan Rebecca Hughes Oisin McCartan

1431

Title: The labelling of non-gluten free Irish products Overview: Irish companies that make products containing gluten should clearly label the merchandise with a specific logo identifying that it contains gluten.

School: Coláiste Pobal Bheanntrai County: Cork Teacher: Ms Sharon Kingston Student(s): Kate Crowley Clodagh Burke Elena O’Donovan

1432

Title: The happiness project: An investigation into the effect of a

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positive psychology campaign on students and teachers at Arklow Community College Overview: This project involves carrying out a ‘happiness campaign’ via an online survey, by practicing mindfulness, through meditation and by taking part in random acts of kindness.

School: Arklow Community College County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Helen Corbett Student(s): Maedbh Murphy John Naik Maciek Smyk

1433

Title: Round the twist Overview: We will improve road safety in the Longford area. Longford is a town surrounded by a bypass with lots of roundabouts and too many accidents.

School: Templemichael College County: Longford Teacher: Mr. Mick O’Rourke Student(s): Willow Greene Carol Shirren Eireann O’Leary

1434

Title: An investigation into the price of public transport in our local area Overview: We want to see how far your money goes when you use public transport and the reason behind the lack of uptake in public transport.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Carena McCarthy Student(s): Elyse Dennehy Alanna O’Driscoll Gillian Seigne

INTERMEDIATE GROUP 1500

Title: MATHletes: Male vs. female, primary vs. secondary Overview: We are investigating to see which gender and which school level, either primary or secondary, is more engaged in MATHletes used through Khan Academy.

School: Fingal Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Damian Barrett Student(s): Ciara Gilsenan Emma Bodiu

1501

Title: A statistical analysis to investigate the public’s attitude towards mental illnesses and the differences that emerge between age categories Overview: We wish to find a difference in attitudes towards mental health between teenagers nowadays and older generations and see if younger people are more open-minded.

School: Kinsale Community School

County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Maebh Delahunty Aoife Gilleran Ciara Morrison

County: Westmeath Teacher: Mrs Ethna Benson Student(s): Julie Ryan Maeve McMahon

1507

1502

Title: An investigative study into the effects and health and financial benefits of e-cigarettes Overview: Our aim is to discover the effects, positive or negative health impacts and financial advantage of using e-cigarettes versus regular cigarettes and other quitting methods.

School: Borrisokane Community College County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Rachel Ahern Student(s): Rebecca Mulqueen Sabhbh Murray

Title: Liv-er die? - A statistical analysis to predict the outcome of current teenage drinking trends and their effects on the incidence of liver transplants Overview: We are going to predict the outcome of teenage drinking by surveying teenagers and comparing with current liver transplant statistics.

School: Holy Child Secondary School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Regina Greehy Student(s): Emma O’Brien Laoise Maguire Clare Dolan

1503

1508

1504

1509

1505

1510

1506

1511

Title: Farm vs. road accidents Overview: Our project is about farm and road accidents. We are going to research information about farm and road accidents and compile a report.

School: Breifne College County: Cavan Teacher: Miss Kerri-Ann Thornton Student(s): Laura Halton Hannah Macken Aisling Cooney Title: Does mood influence sickness?

Overview: This project is a study of the effect mood has on your well-being.

This was conducted through the method of both online and written survey.

School: St Mary’s High School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Marguerite Alley Student(s): Abbie Gleeson Stacey Murphy Title: A statistical study investigating the public’s awareness of male suicide, support services and education of young people regarding suicide Overview: Our project investigates attitudes towards male suicide, educating youths regarding suicide and the public’s awareness of support services locally available to them.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Marieke Buckley Niamh Twomey Title: HPV: Warts and all Overview: An investigation of Westmeath teenagers’ knowledge and awareness of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and vaccine before and after the delivery of an information module.

School: Our Lady’s Bower

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Title: The effect of strictness Overview: An investigation into how the lenience of teachers can affect a student’s ability and attitude to learning.

School: Clonkeen College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jennifer Egan Student(s): Shane Kelly Daniel Flatman Jake Healy Title: Does something seem catfishy to you?

Overview: Our project aims to find out what people know about fake online profiles and to educate people on how to prevent being catfished.

School: Loreto High School County: Dublin Teacher: Mrs Angela Benson Student(s): Eleanor Keane Sadhbh Molloy Killeen Title: Living with Coeliac’s disease The ins and outs!

Overview: We have three approaches to our project: self-diagnosed Coeliacs, the overlap between Coeliac’s disease and type 1 Diabetes, and the Coeliac lifestyle.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Michelle Buckley Student(s): Meabh Finucane Anna Bonar Rachel Flynn Title: A statistical study on the effect of change blindness and its impact on road safety Overview: Our project aims to investigate the visual phenomena change blindness and its effect on drivers’ ability to focus on the road and

www.btyoungscientist.com 17

Social & Behavioural Sciences their driving competence.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Jessica Sheehan Max Shanahan

1512

Title: Special needs students: Segregation vs. integration in secondary schools Overview: The aim of our project is to investigate whether special needs students would benefit more from integration, rather than attending classes in a separate unit.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Lorraine Marron Student(s): Jayne Collins Maeve Cusack

1513

Title: In Irish society today, are children and teenagers forced to grow up too fast?

Overview: We are trying to see if children and teenagers are forced to grow up too fast by handing them out a survey about their lives.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Fiona Tully Niamh Parker

1514

Title: To investigate some of the physical and psychological reactions teenagers have in the dark Overview: We intend to investigate some of the physical and psychological effects of darkness on teenagers and to discover the underlying causes linked to them.

School: Jesus and Mary Secondary School, Our Lady’s Grove County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Emer O Reilly Student(s): Aoibhe Casey Sofia Gutsayev

1515

Title: An investigation into how senior county hurler’s lives are affected by playing county hurling in comparison to county players of the ‘80s and ‘90s Overview: Our project aims to investigate county players by dividing into three sections; lifestyle, dietary and social and then comparing to players in the 1980/90s.

School: Coláiste Iósaef County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Sharon Magner Student(s): Eabha Barry Niamh O’Mahony Brona Mulcahy

1516

Title: To investigate the attitudes of

teenagers towards amending the Irish Constitution to reduce the voting age to 17 Overview: This project concerns the voting age today in our society and whether or not it should be reduced to 17 years old.

School: Tallaght Community School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Mairead Glynn Student(s): Jakub Kluza Seán Nolan

1517

Title: An investigation into the correlation between musical ability and mathematical ability Overview: We are investigating the correlation between musical ability and mathematical ability.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Catherine Fee Niamh Farrell Laoise Flanagan

1518

Title: Ebola: “1.4 million people infected by January 2015” - Can this crisis be averted?

Overview: We are studying the prediction that there will be 1.4 million Ebola cases by January 2015. We will investigate the possibilities of reducing this number.

School: Dominican College Drumcondra County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Lorraine McCool Student(s): Ellen Corr Ciara Connolly Emily Lawlor

1519

Title: To document transition year students’ understanding and relationships between fast-food, healthy food and exercise Overview: Surveying 400 teenagers to see if they can equate the number of calories in certain fast-foods with the equivalent in healthy food and exercise.

School: Loreto Abbey Secondary School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Alison McKenna Student(s): Fiona Murphy Ellen Toomey

1520

Title: A statistical study investigating international opinions on armed and unarmed standard police forces and their protective methods Overview: With our project, we aim to investigate the public’s opinion towards standard police forces within different countries and their methods of protection against criminals.

18 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Frank Curtin Mackenzie Cahill Kane Curtin

1521

School: Bush Post Primary School County: Louth Teacher: Ms Emma McMahon Student(s): Stephen Gartlan David Finnegan

1526

Title: MATHletes nationwide Overview: The geographical statistics about where Khan Academy (MATHletes) was used the most in Ireland, and which areas were most successful.

School: Fingal Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Claire Scanlon Student(s): Jessica Fitzsimons Marius Senchea

Title: Physical education in Ireland: Fit for purpose?

Overview: We are creating an improved P.E. curriculum for the junior and senior cycle, by testing exercises, keeping a fitness diary and handing out surveys.

School: Dominican College - Galway County: Galway Teacher: Ms Patricia Carroll Student(s): Amy O’Reilly Orna Curran

1522

1527

Title: Empirical study of children’s speech in an early years educational setting Overview: In our project we will observe and record preschool children to reach conclusions on their verbal usage in different social settings.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Dr Edward Gash Student(s): Grace Rowe Olivia Brady Zoe Deane

1523

Title: Can you be like Sherlock Holmes if trained in methods of deductive reasoning?

Overview: We will investigate whether a student can be trained to solve detective-like cases if taught methods of deduction.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Lauren Hunt Molly Mew Lisa McCloat

1524

Title: To fear or not to fear Overview: We aim to find common fears among children, and determine whether children are growing up with anxiety issues because of fears that are not addressed.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Lorraine Marron Student(s): Chelsea Love Siobhan O’Regan Emma Sullivan

1525

Title: Should Irish be optional in second level schools?

Overview: We are going to undertake the challenge of determining whether Irish should be optional in secondary schools.

Title: The correlation between irritable bowel syndrome and generalised anxiety disorder Overview: Our project is based on the connection between IBS and anxiety.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Sinead Harrington Simone McNeill Aoife Donellan

1528

Title: Stand up, stand out!

Overview: We aim to investigate the benefits of standing rather than sitting on students cognitive functioning and if standing desks could possibly be introduced into schools.

School: Schull Community College County: Cork Teacher: Ms Larissa Kelly Student(s): Elyssa Curran Aishling Connolly India Bartholomew

1529

Title: STEM to STEAM - Is art the way forward?

Overview: Our project aims to investigate if integrating art into STEM will benefit students in the STEM subjects of science, maths and technology, and whether STEAM will be an effective change.

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Chris Garvey Student(s): Khadija Gull Ruth Moore

1530

Title: Investigating speech impairments within children with Down Syndrome Overview: Our project aim is to examine speech impairments in children with Down Syndrome and develop a theory in which to

significantly improve their speech ability.

School: Bush Post Primary School County: Louth Teacher: Ms Emma McMahon Student(s): Lisa Mc Carragher Caoilinn Dunne

1531

Title: Public vs. private schools?

Overview: To find out whether it is more beneficial academically to send a student to a public or private school and why.

School: Clonkeen College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jennifer Egan Student(s): Conor Kinsella Maitiu Cawley Matthew Geary

1532

Title: Mal-aware Overview: An investigation into malware, such as spyware and Trojan horses, in mobile phones. In particular we will look at its effects, and also people’s awareness of malware.

School: Loreto High School County: Dublin Teacher: Mrs Angela Benson Student(s): Caoimhe Gaughan Jannet Jambeeva Esmé Sheridan

1533

Title: The attraction of ratio Overview: How attractive is the ‘golden ratio’ in real life?

School: Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Maggie Smith Student(s): Julia Letz Ana Zuazua Ruiz Pia Kolb

1534

Title: Hiding in the net Overview: Our project aims to explore how students answer specific types of questions under different conditions; asked by an adult, by a fellow student, or anonymously online.

School: St. Mary’s College County: Galway Teacher: Mr Colin McCaul Student(s): Shane Hastings Jeroen O’ Flaherty Hari Kharel

1535

Title: To investigate if readability is affected by background and font colours as used in interactive boards and slide shows in the classroom Overview: We will test if there is a difference in the readability of powerpoint slides of different font/ background colour combinations.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Michelle Buckley

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Student(s): Stephen O’Dea Sarah Moroney Darren Kennedy

1536

Title: The science behind the selfie Overview: Our project aims to investigate what drives people to upload pictures on social media and whether the selfie trend can last.

School: Loreto Secondary School Navan County: Meath Teacher: Dr Lisa Darley Student(s): Eve McDonagh Laura Doonan Niamh Moore

1537

Title: An investigative study into the increase of physics uptake in 2014 Overview: We are investigating the increase in participation in Leaving Cert physics and why there is a lack of interest in the subject amongst young girls.

School: Borrisokane Community College County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Rachel Ahern Student(s): Megan King Áine Cleary Aisling Hough

1538

County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shane Guerin Student(s): Ava Barry Sarah Dennehy Chloé Collins Title: Drink pal Overview: Our project aims to find a practical way to alert people as to whether their drink has been exposed to GHB, Ketamine and Rohypnol.

School: Ardscoil Uí Urmoltaigh County: Cork Teacher: Mr Declan Hayes Student(s): Tim O’Driscoll Luke Tobin

Title: The psychological effects of acne Overview: In this project we aim to investigate all the psychological effects of acne, and how having acne can affect people in different ways.

School: Grennan College County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Christina Kehoe Student(s): Ashling Barcoe Ailis O’Shea Sarah Lawlor

1542

1547

Title: To raise awareness of the positive side of dyslexia Overview: Our project is focused on showing people that there is a positive side to dyslexia and there are benefits to having it.

School: Dominican College Drumcondra County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Glenn Webster Student(s): Kate Goodman Aine Ellis Alison Bulman

1543

Title: Ideal conditions for learning Overview: We will investigate the ideal conditions for learning by teaching a sample of 30 primary students a lesson, changing variables and testing each time.

School: St Wolstan’s Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Louise Ward Student(s): Emily Thomas Eimear Delaney Aimee Finegan

1539

1544

1540

Title: An investigation into the attendance levels at women’s sports Overview: A statistical analysis of attendance levels at women’s sports.

We will establish whether women’s sports are under-attended and how this may be changed.

School: Millstreet Community School

1546

1541

Title: A statistical analysis of the public’s perception of feminism in modern society Overview: We aim to survey and analyse the views of the public regarding feminism and discover how feminism is perceived in the 21st Century.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Mia Kovacs Alannah Humphreys

Title: Reward vs. punishment Overview: Our project aim is to determine, through a series of experiments and surveys, which is better to motivate people in Irish education: reward or punishment.

School: Dominican College Drumcondra County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Laura Gillivan Student(s): Saoirse Kennedy Kelly Kellyann Fox MacManus Leah McCabe

County: Cork Teacher: Ms Larissa Kelly Student(s): Culann McCarthy Noah McCarthy Fisher

Title: A statistical analysis of the rural/ urban divide in East Galway and South Roscommon in relation to politics and religion Overview: Our project investigates the rural/urban divide in Ballinasloe and its hinterlands, in terms of politics (allegiances and ideologies) and religion (service attendance and devotion).

School: Garbally College County: Galway Teacher: Mr Cathal Reilly Student(s): Michael Dolan Nathan Donelan Tomás McKenna-Carroll

1545

Title: Influencing the outcome Overview: Teenagers are hardwired towards rebellion. Is it possible that the manner in which an instruction is given will have a bearing on the outcome?

School: Schull Community College

@btyste

Title: Sexism in science: Is science still predominantly male?

Overview: The aim of our project is to find out whether the people of our locality really think science is a career for a male.

School: Ardscoil Ris County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Jack Corrigan Student(s): Eoghan O’Neill Conor Maloner Conor Duignan

1548

Title: An bhfuil éifeacht ag na tréithe inathnuaithe ar do phearsantacht?

Overview: Beidh muid ag fiosrú má tá éifeacht ag tréithe an duine, ag díriú ar dath na súl agus dath gruaige, ar phearsantacht an duine.

School: Coláiste Iosagáin County: Dublin Teacher: Miss Orla de Bhailís Student(s): Niamh Nic Giolla Phádraig Sibéal Ní Chasaide

1549

Title: Obesity on the rise Overview: Our project aims to try and help young people to understand what calories mean in terms of activity needed to use them up.

School: St Colmcille’s Community School County: Dublin Teacher: Dr Tom Foyle Student(s): Jena Vickery Holly Dunne Lana McKinney

1550

Title: Teenage girl self-esteem Overview: Self-esteem of girls has lowered in recent years. We wish to confirm this and investigate why it has lowered.

School: Coláiste Iósaef County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Sharon Magner Student(s): Caitlyn O Hanlon Valerie Meany Anna O’Riordan

www.btyoungscientist.com 19

Social & Behavioural Sciences 1551

Title: Why can’t we speak Irish?

Overview: We want to investigate why so many of our people cannot speak as Gaeilge, exploring everything from fear to pride about our native tongue.

School: St Muredachs College County: Mayo Teacher: Mr Kevin Boyle Student(s): Aaron Hannon Paul Flynn Christopher Hunt

1552

Title: Adherence and non-adherence to medical treatments Overview: We will investigate what the main cause of non-adherence is and the different ways of trying to solve the issue by conducting a survey.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Dr MAire Flynn Student(s): Aislinn Collins Zoe Daly Marie Dineen

1553

Title: An investigation into the quantity of protein, both natural and synthetic, consumed by gaelic football and rugby players and its effect Overview: An investigation into protein intake levels of gaelic football and rugby players of various categories in our wider community and their preferences of synthetic or natural protein.

School: Loreto College - Foxrock County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Helen Hennessy Student(s): Alison Keane Sinéad Harcourt

1554

Title: Girl talk/Boy talk: Do girls really talk more about their problems than boys?

Overview: We have heard that girls are much better at discussing their issues than the opposite gender. We wish to investigate if this observation is correct.

School: Laurel Hill Secondary School FCJ County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Andrea Enright Student(s): Aislinn Condon Niamh Marron Isobel Cox

1555

Title: The fault in our brain?

Overview: An investigation into chemical imbalances in the brain linked with depression and what causes it, as well as what treatments are available in Ireland.

School: St. Mary’s Secondary School County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Jane Cross Student(s): Bethany Hanrahan

Kathlyn Coleman Saoirse Flanagan

1556

Title: To investigate the significance of a resource department within a secondary school for students with learning difficulties over a long period of time Overview: Our project aims to find out the progression of resource students once they leave secondary school.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Karina Lyne Student(s): Bríd Holland Rebecca Keane Laura Cleary

1557

Title: Does music define us?

Overview: To see if the music we listen to affects the personalities and behaviour of teenage girls.

School: Dominican College Drumcondra County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Laura Gillivan Student(s): Órfhlaith Ní Fhaoláin Niamh Rock

1558

1561

Title: A statistical analysis of the negative perception of mathematics and the effect this perception has on student success Overview: Why maths is generally deemed a difficult subject by students and how this affects students’ attitudes towards the subject and their results.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Blarney County: Cork Teacher: Ms Elaine Keane Student(s): Stephanie O Donovan Katie O Brien

1562

Title: An bhfuil gaol idir an saghas ceoil a éisteann déagóirí le agus a bpearsantacht?

Overview: Imscrúdú a dheanamh ar na steiréitíopaí atá ag daoine faoi lucht éisteachta ceoil áirithe agus an fhírinne a bhaineann leo.

School: Coláiste Iosagáin County: Dublin Teacher: Miss Orla de Bhailís Student(s): Nessa Ní Dhuinneacháin Aislinn Ní Dhúinnshléibhe Saoirse Lambkin Ní Chátháin

Title: What are the consequences of Project Maths?

Overview: A statistical analysis of the impact of Project Maths on: 1) achievement in other subjects, 2) CAO points, 3) candidate’s spare time (parttime work and sports etc.).

School: Millstreet Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shane Guerin Student(s): Bill Kelleher Jasper Eastwood Lennon Darragh Mc Sweeney

1563

1559

1564

Title: Pro-social behaviour in our school Overview: We are investigating prosocial behaviour in our school and attempting to model it by carrying out different experiments.

School: St. Mary’s Secondary School County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Jane Cross Student(s): Niamh Martin Mary Kate Hilliard

1560

Title: A study on the uptake of physics in second and third level education Overview: We wish to investigate why the uptake of physics at leaving cert level and in third level education is so low.

School: Presentation Secondary School - Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Trish O’ Callaghan Student(s): Roisin Coady Sinead O Connell Clodagh Irwin

20 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

Title: Walk, run or jump your way to happiness Overview: Our project aims to find out what type of exercise has the greatest effect on our mental health.

School: Ballymahon Vocational School County: Longford Teacher: Ms Sinead Mulcahy Sinead Mulcahy Student(s): Aideen Donohoe Nicole Singh Kaitlyn Baxter Title: To investigate the possible relationship between a student’s physical response and the presence of growth versus fixed mindset Overview: Our project aims to find out whether people with fixed mindsets have different physical responses to people with growth mindsets.

School: Regina Mundi College County: Cork Teacher: Mr John Murphy Student(s): Claire O’ Sullivan Louise Coombes Ciara Gallagher

1565

Title: An tionchar atá ag gearradh caesrach ar beathú cíche Overview: Táimid ag fiosrú an tionchar a bhíonn ag gearradh caesrach ar na rátaí beathú cíche, in Éirinn agus mórthimpeall an domhan.

School: Coláiste Pobal Osraí - Kilkenny County: Kilkenny Teacher: Dr. Lughaidh Ó Néill

Student(s): Maeve Shaw Carolyn Howes Andi Snyder

1566

Title: Secondary school students and the consumption of unsafe sugar levels Overview: The relationship between the intake of low fat foods and high sugar levels in the diet of pupils at a secondary school level.

School: Scoil Mhuire Strokestown County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Modwena Geoghegan Student(s): Anna Holmes Michaela Kennedy Aisling Tighe

1567

Title: Does faith matter to young people?

Overview: This project is a research project in the social sciences to determine if faith matters to young people in Ireland today.

School: Loreto Convent - Letterkenny County: Donegal Teacher: Ms. Elaine Gallagher Student(s): Ciara Meleady Tara Diver

1568

Title: How well do you know your food?

Overview: Doing this project we aim to discover if mass production and advertisement of food has affected our knowledge of food and attitude towards healthy eating.

School: Loreto Abbey Secondary School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Heather Merrick Student(s): Elizabeth Ring Aoibhin Farrell Deidre Flynn

1569

Title: A statistical investigation into the impact of the black card on gaelic football Overview: To analyse the success of the new black card disciplinary system in gaelic football. It will be statistically compared to sin-bins and the previous system.

School: Millstreet Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shane Guerin Student(s): Niall Murphy Patrick Dineen Mark Dennehy

1570

Title: Outlining the world of grinding Overview: Our project aims to carry out a concluding investigation into the benefits, effects and background of getting grinds in Ireland for the modern day student.

School: Ballymahon Vocational School County: Longford

Teacher: Ms Sinead Mulcahy Sinead Mulcahy Student(s): Patrick Farrell James Gavigan Conor Flood

1571

Title: How have the new rules in GAA impacted the football?

Overview: We analyse the effects of the new rules, e.g. the black card, on the game of gaelic football and whether they are effective. We will look at how they affect the flow of the game, scores achieved, number of injuries, viewers enjoyment of the game and the quality of football.

School: Coláiste Bhríde County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Miriam Rickerby Student(s): Rhys Gaynor Ciara Jordan

1572

Title: Emigration - Its effect on emigrants and their families Overview: We are proposing to do a project on emigration and the effects it has on families and on the people themselves.

School: Ardscoil Uí Urmoltaigh County: Cork Teacher: Mr John O’Sullivan Student(s): Darren Burke Finian O’Regan

1573

Title: The truth behind the bars Overview: Do you read the ingredients on wrappers, e.g. xanthan gum?

Are you blinded by the language companies use? We aim to find the truth behind the wrapper.

School: Sacred Heart Secondary School County: Offaly Teacher: Mr Emmet Mahony Student(s): Roisin briody Kiera Mahon Lauren White

1574

Title: Will Google take over the world?

A study into the effect Google plays in young people’s lives Overview: Our project is to determine whether the technology superpower Google will ever achieve world domination and what role it plays in young people’s lives today.

School: Coláiste Iósaef County: Limerick Teacher: Mr. Brian Clarke Student(s): Aidan Meade Bryan Kennedy

1575

Title: The effect of pylons and high voltage transmission lines on communities across Ireland Overview: We aim to conduct a comparative study of the effects of pylons and high voltage transmission

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lines on communities across Ireland.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Mr Rob FitzGerald Student(s): Diarmaid Critchley Corey Flynn Thomas Murphy

1576

Title: Would you rather cut off your leg or your mobile phone connection?

Overview: Our project aims to investigate the effect young people’s attachment to communicative technology, especially mobile phones, has on their lives today.

School: Loreto Secondary School Kilkenny County: Kilkenny Teacher: Dr Michele Morris Student(s): Sophie O’Grady Imelda Lennon Briana O’Callaghan

1577

Title: The antisocial and nutritional aspects of a gluten-free diet Overview: Gluten-free diets are on the rise. We want to investigate how easy it is to remain gluten-free by looking at the social and nutritional aspects.

School: Coláiste Bhríde County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Erin Murphy Student(s): Sophie Kenny Sarah Byrne

1578

Title: Ebooks, Eproblems? - The impact of ebooks on student learning and health Overview: To investigate whether ebooks have a positive or negative effect on learning and on health in education.

School: Loreto Secondary School Kilkenny County: Kilkenny Teacher: Dr Michele Morris Student(s): Ciara Lawlor Órlaith O’Connell Hannah McKeever

1579

Title: Rock, paper, scissors! How to predict choices Overview: Investigating the psychology of rock, paper, scissors.

Which choices are the most common and what is the best strategy?

School: St Farnan’s Post Primary School County: Kildare Teacher: Mr Andrew Little Student(s): Ethan Treacy Patrick Clabby Audrius Marcinkevicius

1580

Title: A guideline to overcoming OCD at home Overview: To provide guidelines for

mild/moderate sufferers of OCD to help in dealing with or overcoming it, in conjunction with methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy.

School: Coláiste Na Toirbhirte County: Cork Teacher: Mr Pat O Leary Student(s): Ciara Weldon Críosa O’Regan Rosie O’Dowd

1581

Title: Puzzle me this - What age group are the best puzzle solvers?

Overview: Our project aims to investigate at what age the human mind can best solve simple puzzles, using three different puzzle types: kinaesthetic, oral and visual.

School: Boherbue Comprehensive School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Joanne Hamilton Student(s): David O’Connor Michael Vaughan Connie Collins

1582

Title: Does running to the beat speed up your feet?

Overview: The aim of this project is to investigate whether or not music affects the running ability of a teenager.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Kevin Buckley Student(s): liam nicholl Chloe O’Neill Micheal Bourke

1583

Title: Alcohol consumption: Does the apple fall far from the tree?

Overview: This study aims to investigate whether there is a correlation between parental alcohol consumption and teenage alcohol consumption in the North Cork electorate area.

School: Colaiste Treasa County: Cork Teacher: Mr. Derry O’Donovan Student(s): Ian O’Sullivan Eimear Murphy

1584

Title: How can the amount of makeup alter people’s perception of a woman?

Overview: We will be observing how men and women’s perceptions of a woman can be altered based on the amount of makeup the woman is wearing.

School: Sandford Park School Ltd County: Dublin Teacher: Dr Dana Kilroy Student(s): Hannah Harte Eleanor Donohoe

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1585

Title: Safe farm code for national school Overview: Investigating the possibility of introducing a series of lessons to be taught to national school children about farm safety during farm safety week.

School: Jesus & Mary Secondary School County: Mayo Teacher: Miss Niamh Breheny Student(s): Katie Garrett Jacinta Kelly

1586

Title: An investigation into the methods that can be applied to improve dyslexia Overview: Discovering different learning patterns and ways to help young people who may have been newly diagnosed to improve their learning and dyslexia.

School: Grennan College County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Christina Kehoe Student(s): Niamh Sheehy Niamh Gallagher Aoife Naddy

1587

Title: Staidear a dheanamh ar an tionchar ar broga difrúl ar paraiméadar leimniú agus turlaingt i fir agus mná (The effect of different footwear on jumping and landing) Overview: We wish to investigate the effect of different footwear on jumping and landing parameters in men and women.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Micheál Ó Giobúin Student(s): Sophie Orr Niamh Nic Uait Fionn Ó Cléirigh

1588

Title: Thematic analysis of social media friends vs. real friends Overview: Why do we talk to people for hours on social media but ignore them in person? It is our aim to find out why.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Blarney County: Cork Teacher: Ms Elaine Keane Student(s): Rebecca Shine Tara Buckley

1589

Title: The effect of Snapchat on teenagers Overview: We are trying to find out how Snapchat affects teenagers.

School: Coláiste Iósaef County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Sharon Magner Student(s): Łukasz Dębicki Owen Doyle Adam Kirby

www.btyoungscientist.com 21

Social & Behavioural Sciences 1590

Title: Do calories count? - The influence of calorie information on food choices in a secondary school Overview: Our project aims to find out how calorie labelling influences the food purchased by teenage girls from a school vending machine.

School: Mount Sackville Secondary School County: Dublin Teacher: Mrs Evelyn Mcmoreland Student(s): Aoife Hegarty Orlaith Kenny

1595

Title: What factors affect children’s self-perception?

Overview: We will investigate this by handing out questionnaires to P6-P7 children and determining from the results what factors (eg. media influences) have the most impact.

School: Antrim Grammar School County: Antrim Teacher: Mr Robert McKee Student(s): Kerri McWilliam Mollie Smyth

1596

1601

Title: Are snoozers losers?

Overview: We will investigate the sleeping patterns of the junior student population in our school and how these patterns affect their everyday life and performance in school.

School: Tallaght Community School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Mairead Glynn Student(s): Aishling Whelan Lauren Powell

1602

Title: The potential for human photosynthesis Overview: We will be researching whether humans could potentially photosynthesise in the future. We will investigate the public’s opinion on this, as well as outline the effects.

School: Loreto College - Foxrock County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Helen Hennessy Student(s): Claire King Robyn Collins

Title: Anailís Staitistiúil ar an éifeachtacht ag baint le modhanna coinneála foirne in ionaid teagmhála Overview: It is our intention for this project to statistically study the effectiveness of current staff retention methods used by contact/call centre companies.

School: Gaelcholaiste Na Mara - Arklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Rebecca Ní Chonchúir Student(s): Conor Foster Evan Rawl

Title: An analysis of social views towards organised religion and how it affects modern society Overview: We will carry out a survey/ questionnaire asking people if they value religion in their daily lives. We will also research how it affects modern cultures.

School: Coláiste Iósaef County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Sharon Magner Student(s): Josh O’Brien Caitlin O’Brien Jack Hayes

1592

1597

1603

1591

Title: A study, using statistical methods of public attitudes to and awareness of climate justice Overview: Our project aims to find out what people know about climate justice and to improve awareness on the topic.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Hugh Whelan Ken McVitty

1593

Title: iResults: Do students perform better with the aid of iPads?

Overview: We are investigating whether the use of iPads in schools in South Dublin can improve learning and results, as opposed to learning through the use of books.

School: Alexandra College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Eimear O Sullivan Student(s): Caragh Wrynne Sadbh Shanahan Elspeth Young

1598

Title: How politically aware are Irish teenagers?

Overview: We are three students from Cistercian College who want to find out how much Irish teenagers know about politics, through research by questionnaire or survey.

School: Cistercian College County: Tipperary Teacher: Mr Jim McManus Student(s): Fergal Hayes Darragh Treacy Brian Diffley

SENIOR GROUP

1594

1600

Title: Liar, liar, genes on fire Overview: Does a person’s ability to lie vary depending on the colour of their eyes?

School: Coláiste Bhríde County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr Christopher Davey Student(s): Jacqui Whelan Ellen Walsh Charlotte Hale

Title: Is your well safe?

Overview: To establish the awareness of the risks to private wells in the rural population of Kildare.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Beatrice Olayiwola Ciana Fitzgerald

Title: Long-term consequences of Syncope on teenagers’ mental health Overview: Investigating the long-term psychological effects on teenagers due to experiencing syncope at least once in their life.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Barbara Wawrzynek Erin Crowley

22 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

Title: An investigation into the mathematical and artistic abilities of children and adolescents with symptoms of synesthesia Overview: An investigation into whether children and teenagers with symptoms of synesthesia generally struggle with mathematics and excel in art, as is commonly perceived.

School: Schull Community College County: Cork Teacher: Ms Larissa Kelly Student(s): Étáin Nash Fionnula Simpson Elizabeth O’ Sullivan

1604

Title: Anailís staitistiúil ar an tionchar atá ag tacóirí litriú (Autocorrect) ar chumas litriú daoine óga Overview: Anailís Staitistiúl ar an Tionchar atá ag teicneolaíocht nuaaimseartha mar ‘Auto-Correct’ nó ‘Spellcheck’ ar chumas litriú i ndaoine óga sa lá atá inniu ann.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Julie Gleeson Student(s): Róisín MacManamon Shauna Walsh Róisín MacArtain

1605

Title: Can cognitive development in teenagers be enhanced by using EEG bio-sensing technology?

Overview: We intend to investigate if factors such as listening to music, consuming energy drinks, using social media etc. influences the study efficiency of students.

School: Patrician Secondary School -

Newbridge County: Kildare Teacher: Mr Colin Doheny Student(s): David Strogen Séan O Tiarnaigh Niall Ferris-Meldon

1606

Title: How many doors did Donal open?

Overview: Our project looks at teenage suicide in Ireland. It focuses on the impact Donal Walsh’s story has had on teenagers and their faith, the emotions it evoked and how it reached out to teenagers all over Ireland.

School: Pobalscoil na Tríonóide County: Cork Teacher: Ms Crona McCarthy Student(s): Úna Brosnan Paula Cliffe Sophie Monaghan

1607

Title: Will they sign it?

Overview: A study to see whether people are cautious when signing a petition.

School: St Kevins College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Stacy Kenny Student(s): Lorcan Finnegan Kieran Bell Fionn Murray

1608

Title: Remembering the future - Does what will happen in the future affect the present?

Overview: We investigate psi phenomena - the ability of our brain to see into the future.

School: Dominican College - Wicklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr John O’Brien Student(s): Jessica Mahony Freya Sheridan Oonagh Ward

1609

Title: How we make decisions and how these decisions can be affected Overview: Our project is about finding out how we make decisions and how these decisions can be affected using different conditions/scenarios by means of experimentation.

School: Garbally College County: Galway Teacher: Mr Cathal Reilly Student(s): Ciaran Hamill Conor Riddell Mark Bergin

1610

Title: The psychological effects of running Overview: An investigation into the psychological, mental and emotional effects of long-distance running.

School: Malahide Community School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Elaine O’Dwyer

Student(s): Jack Maughan Jack Hussey

1611

Title: An investigation into the policies and practices of the management of anaphylaxis in an educational setting in Ireland Overview: We report on the variation in policies and practices in the management of allergies and anaphylaxis in educational settings in Ireland.

School: Carrigaline Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Geraldine McCarthy Student(s): Eithne Byrne Eimear Brady Jodie Meehan

1612

Title: Personality disorders: Improving awareness amongst young people Overview: Our project aims to raise more awareness and change people’s view of personality disorders, as they are rarely known among young people.

School: Coláiste na Sceilge County: Kerry Teacher: Ms Anne Griffin Student(s): Aoibhin O’Neill Sinead O’Sullivan

1613

Title: To examine the relationship between the increase of tobacco pricing, the number of people smoking and the emergence of electronic cigarettes as an alternative Overview: Our project examines the relationship between the price of tobacco, the number of people smoking and the increased prevalence of e-cigarettes as an alternative.

School: Christian Brothers College County: Cork Teacher: Mr David O’Connell Student(s): Diarmuid Mulcahy Cormac O’Connor Evan O’Connell

County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Kevin Carey Student(s): David McDermott Andrew Eley Micheal Ní Coill

1616

Title: The Irish educational system: How we can improve it for the 21st century student Overview: An examination of the Irish educational system from a social science perspective, examining strengths and weaknesses and its effects on students.

School: Loreto Secondary School Kilkenny County: Kilkenny Teacher: Dr Michele Morris Student(s): Siobhan Campion Alanagh Counihan

1617

Title: Movie madness: An investigation into personality types as an indicator for movie preference Overview: Our project aims to find out whether or not personality type has an effect on people’s movie preferences.

School: Heywood Community School County: Laois Teacher: Mr Aodhagan O Suilleabhain Student(s): Fiona Donohue Bridget-Ann O’Neill Aoife Hosey

1618

Title: Can calisthenics improve student attainment?

Overview: To see if a short calisthenics programme can improve student attainment.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Dermot Luttrell Kelvin Tsang

1614

Title: Nuclear power in Ireland Overview: To learn more about nuclear power and how it can be implemented in Ireland: the advantages, the disadvantages, the barriers and the best way to utilise it.

School: Belvedere College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Stephen Carey Student(s): Gavin Walsh Rory O’Donoghue

1615

Title: Do rugby players cheat at their pre-season concussion screening?

Overview: We want to see if players get low pre-screening scores on purpose in order to get back on the pitch quicker.

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan

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Chemical, physical & mathematical sciences JUNIOR INDIVIDUAL

INTERMEDIATE INDIVIDUAL

2100

2200

Title: Self-similar Sierpinski fractals Overview: To better understand self-similar objects and their fractal dimensions, specifically ones identified

by Wacław Sierpiński. I plan to create fractals using the programming language Scratch.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Donal Enright Student(s): Ben Montgomery

2101

Title: Solving algebraic equations using Lill’s method Overview: Lill’s method is a littleknown graphical technique for solving algebraic equations. I have developed software that allows this powerful method to be used with ease.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Paul Tester Student(s): Moazam Hussain

2102

Title: The hurling helmet: Simple, effective changes that can be made to improve safety Overview: I aim to improve the standard design of the hurling helmet by making simple changes to the padding, outer shell and face guard.

School: Ardgillan Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Mrs Theresa Gannon Student(s): Rían Cathcart

2103

Title: An analysis using agent-based modelling of factors in human behaviours and their impact on infectious diseases such as Ebola Overview: My project is about using agent-based modelling to investigate how changes in human behaviour could impact transmission of the Ebola virus School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Yseult Whitaker Student(s): Claire Gregg

2104

Title: An investigation of mathematical concepts and connections in a garden Overview: An investigation into the many varied mathematical concepts that can be studied in your garden, such as number sequences and both regular and irregular shapes.

School: Our Ladys College - Drogheda County: Louth Teacher: Miss Frances O’Regan Student(s): Niamh Kelly

Title: Antimicrobial properties of essential oils and compounds from spices Overview: To compare the antimicrobial properties of the essential oils of spices with the antimicrobial properties of major constituent compounds of these oils.

School: Newpark Comprehensive School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Karen Clarke Student(s): Jemima Turner

2201

Title: A focus on the Collatz conjecture Overview: My project will look at a famous maths problem; the Collatz Conjecture. If n is odd, x = 3n+1. If n is even, n/2.

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jacqueline Farrell Student(s): Daire Byrne

2202

Title: Investigating the nicotine content of E-Vap cigarettes Overview: There is much controversy over the health risks of E-Vap cigarettes. This project investigates the nicotine content of a selection of E-Vap cigarettes and vapour emitted.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Justine Munoz

2203

Title: Correlation or coincidence? Solar flares, lunar phases and stock market activity Overview: The purpose of this project is to determine whether geomagnetic storms and lunar phases have an influence on people’s decisions regarding the stock market.

School: Sutton Park School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Catherine Tattersall Student(s): Claire Nichols

2204

Title: Magic cubes Overview: I am making a 3x3 cube that will contain numbers. Whatever way you add the numbers (across, down or diagonal), it will add up to 42.

School: Holy Child Secondary School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Regina Greehy Student(s): Kathryn Mooney

2205

Title: An investigation into how temperature affects liquid flow through porous media Overview: My project aims to find out if temperature affects the flow of various liquids through different

24 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

porous media, such as sand.

School: Patrician Secondary School Newbridge County: Kildare Teacher: Mr Colin Doheny Student(s): Jack Murray

the reasoning behind the hexagonal structure of honeycomb cells.

School: Sacred Heart Secondary School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Colm Kiely Student(s): Kasia Mertuszka

2206

2212

Title: What’s so special about a triangle with sides of length 3, 8 and 10 units?

Overview: Is it possible to draw a triangle with sides of integer length, where one of the angles is an integer multiple of another?

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Miss Deirdre O’Neill Student(s): Antanas Murelis

2207

Title: Global warming and changes in Irish grass growth patterns Overview: Devising a mathematical model to calculate potential temperature rise in Ireland over the next 50-100 years and to calculate its effect on Irish grass growth patterns.

School: Christ King Girls Secondary School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Lucy O’ Farrell Student(s): RoseAnne O’Mahony

2208

Title: Exploring self-organisation in the formation of Liesegang rings Overview: I want to show that Liesengang rings can exhibit self-organisation patterns that do not violate the Second Law of Thermodynamics.

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jacqueline Farrell Student(s): Cian Brophy

2209

Title: An investigation into the effects of UV light on milk to improve its longevity Overview: In my project I hope to increase the longevity of milk using UV light in a refrigerated environment.

School: Mount St Michael County: Cork Teacher: Ms Alison McCarthy Student(s): Leah O Donoghue

2210

Title: Predicting tidal and storm surge height in Galway Overview: The goal of my project is to develop a means of predicting the actual tide height in Salthill, Galway.

School: Coláiste Iognáid S.J. County: Galway Teacher: Mr Brian Stewart Student(s): Dylan Roe

2211

Title: The geometry behind beehives Overview: My project aims to explore the geometry found in beehives and

Title: The investigation, development and evaluation of natural sunscreen preparations Overview: This project investigates a variety of potential natural sunscreen substances for their ability to absorb UV radiation and give protection against UV damage.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Megan Doherty

SENIOR INDIVIDUAL 2300

Title: Calcalas le haghaidh réamhmheas na haimsire Overview: A functional analysis of advanced integration and limitation.

Examining calculus methodologies and formulas than can be used to predict various points on a polynomial graph.

School: Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Ciara Ní Dhrisceoil Student(s): Jack O’ Callaghan

2301

Title: Generalisations of some problems posed by H.F. Sandham Overview: In the 1940s and 50s, Sandham contributed problems to international mathematics journals. I prove a number of new results inspired by two of Sandham’s problems.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Stephanie O’ Sullivan Student(s): Gabriel Barat

2302

Title: Analysing Le Chatelier’s principle Overview: This project aims to teach Le Chatelier’s principle through observation of existing and also my own, oscillating reactions with striking colour changes.

School: St Nathy’s College County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Oliver Brady Student(s): Annie Regan

2303

Title: The effect of magnetic fluids on the flow rate of ionic fluids Overview: Can strong magnetic fields influence the flow of ionic fluids? If so, can this be used to detect heavy metal ions in drinking water?

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jacqueline Farrell Student(s): Saif Khalid Syed

2304

Title: An investigation of a cubic identity due to Ramanujan Overview: I prove that an identity discovered by Ramanujan and used in the theory of Diophantine equations is one of an infinite set of similar identities.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Miss Martha Nolan Student(s): Keshav Sapkota

2305

2309

Title: Contribution to solving the subset sum problem in polynomial time Overview: This research is aiming to solve the Np complete problem - the subset sum problem in polynomial time.

School: Ardgillan Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Mrs Theresa Gannon Student(s): Bernard Adegbemi

2310

Title: Investigating the effect of ‘hard’ water on the stability of hair dye Overview: This project investigates the effect of ‘hard’ water (water which contains high concentrations of calcium and magnesium salts) on the stability of semi-permanent hair dye.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Aoife Bolster

Title: A comparative study, using chemical analysis of naturally occurring hormones in willow water Overview: My project aims to examine and compare the salicylic acid and indolebutyric acid concentration of willow water extracted from four Irish native willow species.

School: St Mary’s High School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Marguerite Alley Student(s): Lauren O’Mahoney

2306

2311

Title: A comparison of learning algorithms on the classification of biological sequences Overview: Massive amounts of biological data are now being generated, requiring computer analysis. Using machine-learning techniques, I will analyse biological data and improve existing methods.

School: Salesian Secondary College, Pallaskenry County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Claire Sheehy Student(s): Adrian Kelly

2307

Title: The fundamental inadequacies of the Copenhagen Interpretation Overview: To outline the fundamental inadequacies of the Copenhagen Interpretation of quantum mechanics and how the Many-Worlds Interpretation compensates for such inadequacies.

School: Garbally College County: Galway Teacher: Mr Cathal Reilly Student(s): Rónán Murphy

2308

Title: An investigation into the correlation between slowed proton diffusion and bio-electric signal intensity in grey matter Overview: An investigation into the correlation between proton diffusion measured by MRI and bio-electric signal intensity measured by EEG. A linear correlation was found and formula described.

School: Alexandra College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr John Hennessy Student(s): Elina Shah

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Title: A new theorem concerning the Hofstadter triangle Overview: In 1992, Douglas Hofstadter discovered a new and surprising theorem in Euclidean geometry. I prove a new and equally unexpected theorem related to Hofstadter’s theorem.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Kate Walsh Student(s): Aleksander Kozina

JUNIOR GROUP 2400

Title: Is our ambulance network correctly located to best serve the Irish nation?

Overview: Using data from the 2011 census, HSE and National Ambulance Service, we aim to discover, using graph theory, whether our ambulance stations are best located to serve Ireland.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Donal Enright Student(s): Liam Callinan Leona Mullally

2401

Title: Measurement of radon emanation and its correlation with indoor radon levels in some areas of Mallow Overview: Our objectives are to discover the geographical distribution of radon levels in dwellings in Mallow and investigate factors that affect radon emanation from different sources.

School: St Mary’s Secondary School Mallow County: Cork Teacher: Mr Martin Timmons

Student(s): Shauna Murphy Caoimhe Cronin

2402

Title: The self-assembly of diamagnetic material in magnetic fields Overview: To determine if macro, micro and nano scale diamagnetic materials can be self-assembled into three-dimensional structures using a magnetic field in a superparamagnetic medium.

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jacqueline Farrell Student(s): Evan Carroll Ian O’ Flynn

2403

Title: A partition function congruence modulo 37 Overview: Ramanujan initiated the study of partition function congruences. We have discovered a congruence modulo 37, something that has never been achieved before.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Sean McQuaid Student(s): Mateen Malik Haroon Hussain Andrew O’Neill

2404

Title: So how many do you think?

Overview: This study investigates the ability of both males and females of different age groups to accurately determine different quantities by just observation in limited time.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery Student(s): Claire Nolan Kelli Gayer

2405

Title: An investigation to analyse the percentage of phthalates in EC certified and non-certified loom bands Overview: This project aims to investigate the percentage of phthalates per weight in both EC certified and non-certified loom bands for sale in Ireland.

School: Avondale Community College County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Michelle Finnegan Student(s): Katie Toomey Vada Tobin

2406

Title: Strong eggs Overview: Our project is to investigate which poultry egg is the strongest. We used various experiments such as back titration.

School: St Nathy’s College County: Roscommon Teacher: Dr Oonagh Redmond Student(s): Saoírse Duffy Róisín Byrne

2407

Title: Beating the wall in long distance running Overview: We aim to investigate what the most effective marathon pacing strategy is, with the aim of helping non-elite runners to overcome ‘hitting the wall’.

School: Our Ladys School Templeogue County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Ruth Kelly Student(s): Anna Waters Phoebe Van Egeraat

2408

Title: Numerapp - A new game changer Overview: Development of an app to help students of all ages to multiply, divide and appreciate the value of prime numbers and factorisation.

School: St John Bosco Community College County: Clare Teacher: Mr Leo O Donoghue Student(s): Emmet McMahon Diarmuid O’Donnell Bianca Tully

2409

Title: Quick click allergen detection kit Overview: Our project aims to create a ‘quick click’ kit that allows for people to test for sulphites, a common allergen found in food and drink.

School: Loreto Secondary School Navan County: Meath Teacher: Dr Lisa Darley Student(s): Emma Mc Carthy Niamh Hayes Brianna Morris

2410

Title: Rugby: Is bigger necessarily better?

Overview: How have the weights and heights of most capped wingers at the top eight international teams changed over the last 20 years, and have they improved measurably?

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Paula McGath Student(s): Daniel Hoban Jean-Luc Crowley Debarbouille

2411

Title: A mathematical study of the spontaneous stratification effect Overview: We study spontaneous stratification and try to add to the very limited existing body of knowledge of the subject.

School: Dominican College - Wicklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr John O’Brien Student(s): Rachel Winters Chloe O’Sullivan

2412

Title: Investigating the flow properties

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Chemical, physical & mathematical sciences of granular materials Overview: We are testing the hypothesis that the flow rate of a granular solid is affected by the regularity in shape of its particles.

School: Oakgrove Integrated College County: Londonderry Teacher: Ms Laura Corbett Student(s): Aimee McMichael Leah Fleming Sean Straw

2413

Title: Is the hydrogen fuel cell our future?

Overview: We are investigating whether a hydrogen fuel cell can power our future and if photovoltaic solar panels can generate the hydrogen for the zero-emission energy source.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Madi Hayes Robyn McCarthy

2414

Title: From source to sea: A water quality analysis of the River Liffey Overview: We will test various areas of the River Liffey and determine which area is best for the life of aquatic organisms.

School: Loreto College - Foxrock County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Helen Hennessy Student(s): Shuhan Yan Rosie McCullagh

2415

Title: Honeybees don’t need protractors to make perfect hexagons Overview: To determine whether hexagonal honeycomb is the most efficient storage solution and to show that bees make circular shapes that, under pressure, form the hexagonal honeycomb.

School: Sacred Heart Secondary School County: Offaly Teacher: Mr Kevin Gallagher Student(s): Olivia Summerville Maria Guinan

2416

Title: Cooking oil: Which one is best for your health?

Overview: To establish which cooking oil has the most unsaturated fat and whether this varies with temperature.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Kayleigh Slattery Rafiat Agbona Iga Major

2417

Title: The effects of radio frequencies Overview: An investigation into the effect of radio frequencies from smart meters on the signals discharged from

other devices in the home.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Alana McSweeney Claire Bernard Sarah Cotter

of milk.

School: C.B.S. Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Louise Gallagher Student(s): Thomas Cullen Shane Maher James Finnerty

INTERMEDIATE GROUP

2505

2500

Title: Investigating the effect of various fruit and vegetable juices on the rate of breakdown of hydrogen peroxide from an Alzheimer’s disease perspective Overview: This project is about hydrogen peroxide and Alzheimer’s disease. It investigates the effect of various fruit/vegetable juices on how quickly hydrogen peroxide is broken down.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Rebecca Wright Lauren McCallion

2501

Title: The development of a prototype citizen monitoring water quality test kit Overview: Our project aims to evaluate the use of an oxygen demand test as an indicator of water pollution to be used in citizen monitoring.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Emily Kellett Orlaith Nyhan

2502

Title: An investigation into the disintegration of tanning compounds and possible stabilisation Overview: An investigation into the disintegration of tanning compounds and possible stabilisation.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Emily Crean Lauren Coyne Michelle Hanley

2503

Title: Tidal flow energy in Tramore, Co.Waterford Overview: We want to measure the potential energy of the tidal flow in the backstrand of Tramore.

School: Gael Choláist Phort Láirge County: Waterford Teacher: Mr Seán Ó Catháin Student(s): Luke Foran Eoin Phelan

2504

Title: How fresh is “fresh” milk?

Overview: Our project investigates the amount of lactic acid in various brands

26 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

game by using mathematical concepts.

School: Loreto College - Cavan County: Cavan Teacher: Mrs Carmel Gaffney Student(s): Emma O’Reilly Ciara Finan

2510

Title: E-cigarettes: Are they really the better option?

Overview: Our project aims to (a) expose cells to tobacco cigarette chemicals and e-cigarette chemicals, and (b) conduct a chemical analysis of the contents of these products.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Julie Gleeson Student(s): Aileen Carroll Kaitlyn Bradfield

Title: Earthquakes in Ireland! What’s shaking us?

Overview: We aim to investigate possible causes and effects of earthquakes off the south coast of Ireland and specifically the earthquake that occurred in December 2013.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): James Barry Luke Henderson Tadhg McCarthy

2506

2511

Title: An investigation into the betting odds of horse racing vs. the race result Overview: We will be gathering betting odds data from horse races and examining any correlation between these odds and the outcomes of the selected races.

School: Gonzaga College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Joe O Briain Student(s): Conor O’Donnell Michael Mullin Julien Carthy

2507

Title: Water disinfection using solar power electro-generated hypochlorite for developing nations Overview: By exploiting the natural chloride in water we will use solar powered electrolysis to disinfect water allowing people to drink it, thus helping undeveloped countries.

School: Coláiste Bhréanainn County: Kerry Teacher: Ms. Marian O’ Gorman Student(s): Cian O’Sullivan Luke Murphy

2508

Title: Not “mush-room” for turf anymore!

Overview: As the demand for turf is increasing and less is available, we are trying to make a burnable fuel out of spent mushroom compost.

School: Moate Community School County: Westmeath Teacher: Mr John Paul Casey Student(s): Shane Seery Sean Pettit

2509

Title: A mathematical investigation into the use of game theory in developing winning strategies for twoplayer games and to develop a game Overview: We are going to develop winning strategies for two-player games and apply these to create our

Title: How effective are commercially available hydrophobic coating products at preventing the icing of vehicle windscreens?

Overview: To perform a series of test experiments designed to evaluate the efficacy of various commercial products for the production of hydrophobic vehicle windscreens.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Ann Downey Student(s): Niamh Burns Julianne Downey

2512

Title: Investigating the ability of eggshell membrane to absorb carbon dioxide Overview: Research shows eggshell membrane has the ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the air. This project investigates the amount of CO2 that can be absorbed.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Laura McLaughlin Aine Gillespie

2513

Title: Crater formation: A study in physics Overview: Our idea involves dropping projectiles of different densities from different angles/heights onto beds formed from various substances to establish the relationship between asteroids and craters.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Kate Ward Grace Butler Grace Creavin

2514

Title: Application of sound measurement in a chamber for sensing

pressure and the integrity of a vacuum Overview: The relationship between pressure and sound reading in a pressurised chamber, and hence the design of a system to estimate pressure and/or the integrity of a vacuum.

School: Presentation College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Ian Lehane Student(s): Reggie Kavanagh Tony Cusack

2515

Title: Conas muid féin a chosaint ó ghathanna UV Overview: An t-éifeacht d’uachtair gréine éagsúla agus an costas d’éadaí UV agus na huachtair gréine sin a chur i gcomparáid.

School: Gaelcholáiste Reachrann County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Feargal Mairtin Student(s): Aisling Ní Laoghaire Ailbhe Nic Eoghain

2516

Title: Measuring urban NO2 levels at peak traffic flow under different atmospheric conditions Overview: We will measure urban NO2 levels at peak traffic flow under different atmospheric conditions and examine these measures to reduce NO2 levels, including use of photocatalytic compounds.

School: St Louis High School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Mairead O Brien Student(s): Mathilde Lyons Isabel Browne

2517

Title: The healing power of nano Overview: To create an antibacterial sodium alginate patch containing silver nanoparticles. This will be placed over a wound to prevent infection, exploiting the antibacterial properties of nano-silver.

School: Loreto Secondary School Navan County: Meath Teacher: Dr Lisa Darley Student(s): Catherine O’Connell Laura Cope Eimear Quinn

2518

Title: Using sensors to measure pressure output for enhancement in rowing Overview: To investigate pressure applied in the stroke while rowing, using pressure sensors, and using the data gathered to further improve an athlete’s performance.

School: Presentation College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Ian Lehane Student(s): Jack O’ Donovan Barry Shanahan Patrick Kennelly

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2519

Title: Structural symmetry in projective geometry Overview: We look at structure in the projective plane constructed from recurring linear and polar transformations. We will be examining symmetry and discrete versus continuous transformations.

School: Bishopstown Community School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Emma McDonnell Student(s): Jason Lenihan Anna Mustata

2520

Title: Conkering physics Overview: An experimental study of conkers; collisions between composite materials of differing masses, elasticities, speeds and impact angles with the conker breaking in different ways.

School: St Mary’s Limavady County: Londonderry Teacher: Miss Gerardine Kealey Student(s): Bryan Case Lawrence Roble

2521

Title: Staidéar ar cé chomh randamach is atá an mód suaitheadh ceoil Overview: We are testing to see how random the ‘shuffle mode’ and ‘party mode’ on music players really is, or are they random at all?

School: Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair County: Donegal Teacher: Ms Susan Ní Loinsigh Student(s): Cian Mac Gabhann Michéal Ó Cathasaigh Fionán Laighneach

2522

Title: Model of the expansion of space, with regards to the formation of stars from super-compressed hydrogen clouds and their release of mass through nuclear fusion, GRB and supernovae.

Overview: Our project states that space is expanding in response to a contraction that occurred due to the first stars being born from hydrogen clouds in space.

School: St Kieran’s College County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Eileen Hanrick Student(s): Peter Mullan Eoin Minnock

2523

Title: A statistical analysis of students’ interpretation of data presented in different graphical forms Overview: This project is about students’ and past students’ ability to perceive information from various types of graphs and charts.

School: St Vincent’s Secondary School County: Louth Teacher: Mr John White

Student(s): Alexandria Smyth Anna Turley Hannah McGivern

2524

Title: Development of a solar powered sterilisation device for use in rural health clinics in less developed countries Overview: We investigate the use of a solar powered sterilisation device that can be produced cheaply and can be used in less developed countries.

School: Dominican College - Wicklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr John O’Brien Student(s): Caitlin Griffey Lauren Mckeon

2525

Title: A mathematical analysis of number patterns in winning draws in the National Lottery Overview: An investigation of specific number patterns arising in the winning draws of the biweekly National Lottery over a five year period.

School: Our Ladys College - Drogheda County: Louth Teacher: Miss Frances O’Regan Student(s): Órla Molloy Neasa Early

2526

Title: The effects of raw milk on asthma and eczema Overview: The aim of our project is to prove that raw cow’s milk has a positive effect on asthma and eczema.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Carena McCarthy Student(s): Lauren Bateman Grace KIngston

2527

2529

Title: The perfect cup of tea Overview: To investigate the temperature at which there is most antioxidant activity in tea and the effect the addition of milk has on these antioxidants.

School: Scoil Mhuire County: Clare Teacher: Ms Sue-Ann Sheridan Student(s): Isabel Coleman Aoibhin O’Sullivan Suzanne Conneely

2530

Title: Does shorter mean better balance?

Overview: Our theory is that the shorter a person is, the better their balance should be. This is our study to prove this.

School: Seamount College County: Galway Teacher: Ms Joanne Martin Student(s): Saoirse Hughes Ryah Hotchkiss Mairead Flanagan

2531

Title: Never-ending Pascal: An investigation into the patterns and sequences of Pascal’s triangle Overview: In our project, we investigate the patterns and sequences in Pascal’s triangle that can relate to everyday life and topics we’ve covered in maths class.

School: Sacred Heart Secondary School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Colm Kiely Student(s): Paulina Oramus Roisin O Mahony Anastasia Smetanina

2532

Title: Discovering patterns in music Overview: Our project aims to find patterns in the melodies of popular songs to find out what makes a hit song.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Katie Lyons Ella Healy

Title: Using biomimicry to produce environmentally friendly cement Overview: We will use biomimicry to copy coral’s way of producing its exoskeleton to make environmentally friendly cement.

School: Ballyclare High School County: Antrim Teacher: Mrs Nicola Craig Student(s): Emma Neill Bethany Stewart

2528

2533

Title: Coffee-diesel: Biofuel made from used coffee grounds Overview: The main barrier to biodiesel production is the lack of cheap feedstock. Spent coffee grounds contain as much oil as traditional feedstock. They’re abundant, cheap and biofriendly.

School: Our Lady’s Bower County: Westmeath Teacher: Mrs Ethna Benson Student(s): Aisling Nic Giolla Dé Aobh Nic Ghiolla Phadraig Isebeal O Brien

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Title: Ag baint úsáid as baoithe fuinnimh uisce chun creimeadh an cósta a laghdú agus ag an am céanna lei (Using water energy buoys to reduce coastal erosion whilst generating electricity) Overview: The aim of our project is to reduce the erosion of our coastline whilst generating electricity.

School: Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí County: Kerry Teacher: Ms Elaine Ní Dheargáin Student(s): Janine Ní Chonchúir Lorraine De Nais Ursula Ní Mhochóir

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Chemical, physical & mathematical sciences 2534

Title: An investigation into the removal of oil/petrol from road surfaces using solvents Overview: We wish to investigate whether there is a more efficient way to clear oil/petrol from road surfaces than the way governments/county councils clear it.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Chloe Mannion Caoimhe Duke

2535

Title: Alternative ways to cool the Liebig condenser Overview: We are investigating alternative ways to cool the Liebig condenser in order to avoid the huge waste of water that currently arises in distillation experiments.

School: Our Lady’s Bower County: Westmeath Teacher: Mrs Ethna Benson Student(s): Aisling Benson Maeve Bass Róisín Burke

2536

Title: An investigation into the purification of crystals Overview: Our project is an investigation into how pure you can get crystals using recrystallization, which is a method of purification.

School: Patrician High School Carrickmacross County: Monaghan Teacher: Mr John O’Rourke Student(s): Aaron Duffy Luke Cassidy

2537

Title: Newton’s series Overview: This project involves looking at the ways in which Newton found important mathematical series. We will also derive formulae to represent series that are mathematically important.

School: Loreto Convent - Letterkenny County: Donegal Teacher: Ms. Elaine Gallagher Student(s): Rachel Hannigan Nell Carr Alison Dowling

2538

Title: Is sugar a poison?

Overview: An investigation into the different sugar (glucose and fructose) contents of natural and processed foods.

School: The Teresian School Donnybrook County: Dublin Teacher: Mr. Lorcán Ó hAlmhain Student(s): Clara O’Carroll Emma Russell

2539

Title: Computer encryption: Can Shor’s algorithm be used to crack data encryption keys?

Overview: We will write a script to simulate Shor’s algorithm and test its performance against classic methods.

School: Antrim Grammar School County: Antrim Teacher: Mr Robert McKee Student(s): Caleb Allen David Porter

SENIOR GROUP 2600

Title: Optimisation of airline overbooking strategy using mathematical modelling Overview: We will develop a mathematical model that can maximise an airlines profit on a flight by overbooking seats. The model will work for any flight.

School: Clongowes Wood College County: Kildare Teacher: Mr Stephen O’Hara Student(s): Tim Burke Daniel Kilmartin

2601

Title: An investigation into the use of carbon scrubbers in the reduction of CO2 emissions from car exhausts Overview: A study into the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions through the use of carbon scrubbers in car exhausts.

School: Tallaght Community School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Kate O’Gorman Student(s): Michal Grudzien Allan Finlay

2602

Title: The effect of different catalysts on the production of ethanol Overview: This project investigates the effect of different catalysts on the production of ethanol.

School: St Columb’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mr Liam Burns Student(s): Dennis Blanking James Colgan

2603

Title: A conjecture concerning twin primes Overview: We state a new conjecture concerning twin primes and provide numerical evidence to support it.

We investigate applications of the conjecture in number theory.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Ger Davin Student(s): Noman Huma Chetan Dookhy

2604

Title: Mathematical models of interacting sustainable societies Overview: Civilisations have phases

28 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

of growth, stability and decline. We present a mathematical model of fundamental processes governing the evolution of societies.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Lesley Plunkett Student(s): Nathan McDonagh Adam McEnroe Soban Huma

2605

Title: Desalinating water using pectin from orange peels Overview: The aim of our project is to remove the salt in water using pectin from orange peels and other citrus fruits.

School: Scoil Mhuire Strokestown County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Modwena Geoghegan Student(s): Ethan Paisley Conor Rogers

2606

Title: Investigating the different sequences, patterns and key changes in popular music and how they impact on the success of the song Overview: We plan to explore factors which may make a song popular.

We will look at these similarities and differences from a mathematical perspective in songs.

School: St. Clare’s Comprehensive School County: Leitrim Teacher: Miss Edel McPhelim Student(s): Emer Clancy Niamh McInerney Aoife Feeney

2607

Title: Investigating the inhibition of the enzyme papain Overview: We will use colorimetry to study how well papain breaks down gelatine and we will then add chemicals to see if we can stop it working.

School: Abbey Christian Brothers School County: Down Teacher: Dr Maeve Carey Student(s): Conor Foster Killian McShane Aodhan Donnelly

2608

Title: Using advanced mathematics with differential equations to show how the uses of the Gompertz functions give solutions within pharmacokinetics Overview: This project investigates different methods of using differential equations to produce a safe rate of drug absorption into the body, giving a graphical output.

School: St Mary’s Limavady County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Bennett Student(s): Erin Bennett Caoimhe Cummings Mackenzie Case

2609

Title: A mathematical study of Minesweeper Overview: A study of the mathematical principles and theory governing the game of Minesweeper.

School: Gonzaga College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Daniel Lynch Student(s): Aidan Fitzpatrick Jack Mac Namara Brendan O’Connell

2610

Title: New theorems concerning Engel series Overview: We prove that certain classes of quadratic irrationals have Engel expansions with predictable patterns.

School: Synge Street CBS County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Shane Freeman Student(s): Mustapha Kokumo Adrian Wolniak Jerome Aguilar

2611

Title: To find a cheaper and more environmentally friendly way of antifouling marine vessels by using graphene Overview: Our aim is to use graphene as an alternative to the current toxic paints used for antifouling.

School: St Andrew’s College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Hilary Rimbi Student(s): Patrick Lee Stephen O’Neill Tom Lenehan

2612

Title: A study on a safe substitute for Americium-241 in smoke detectors Overview: Most smoke detectors currently contain a radioactive substance. Alpha radiation is therefore bombarding people in their homes. We aim to find a safer substitute.

School: North Monastery Secondary School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Kieran Ruby Student(s): Robert O’Sullivan Aaron Smith Adam Deane

2613

Title: Plastic bottles - The enemy!

Overview: To see if repeated plastic bottle use will release measurable oestrogenic substances into drinking H2O. School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Caoimhe Daly Orla O Donovan Katie Nealon

Technology JUNIOR INDIVIDUAL 3100

Title: Horizon correction glasses to prevent motion sickness Overview: To design and build a pair of glasses that fool the brain by simulating the horizon, thus reducing motion sickness.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Donal Enright Student(s): Alice Duffy

3101

Title: Web-based interactive dashboard design Overview: A web-based system for building dynamic dashboards/display boards that display information taken from databases and present this information in various widget types.

School: Sutton Park School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Catherine Tattersall Student(s): Adam Barry

3102

Title: Wearable TMO system Overview: A low cost wearable TMO system worn by the referee to aid in the officiating of a rugby match and also to be used as a coaching aid.

School: De La Salle College County: Louth Teacher: Ms Cara Mc Adam Student(s): Martin O Donnachadha

3103

Title: Home automation made easy Overview: A project that is using a smart phone or tablet to control home electrical devices.

School: St Declan’s College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms yvonne nolan Student(s): Stephen Cushen

3104

Title: Does a double chain ring on a racing bike improve efficiency?

Overview: I wish to investigate if adding a double chain ring to an outdoor racing bicycle will improve efficiency, taking weight and speed into consideration.

School: St. Patrick’s College County: Mayo Teacher: Mr Paul Lynch Student(s): Eoghan Pattwell

3105

Title: NetSafe Overview: NetSafe is a program that monitors a child’s online activity. It is programmed in C#.

School: St. Mary’s C.B.S. County: Laois Teacher: Mr Cyril Mulligan Student(s): Caolan Fleming

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3106

Title: Ceall breosla bealach an todhchaí Overview: I mo thionscadal déanaim comparáid idir éifeachtaí fuinneamh na gaoithe agus fuinneamh na gréine mar mhodh athchúrsála ar an uisce I gcill breosla hidrigine.

School: Coláiste Naomh Eoin County: Galway Teacher: Mr Cormac Coyne Student(s): Michael Concannon

INTERMEDIATE INDIVIDUAL 3200

Title: STEM in game development Overview: All STEM subjects are essential in the game development process. I will illustrate this through a 3D mobile game I have developed called “Recineration”.

School: Patrician High School Carrickmacross County: Monaghan Teacher: Mr John O’Rourke Student(s): Jonathan White

3201

Title: Homeless wrap Overview: A lightweight, waterproof, heat retaining, portable cover suitable for homeless, camping and disaster relief situations.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Donal Enright Student(s): Emily Duffy

3202

Title: A design for an enhanced road safety system for motorways Overview: This project involves installing vibration sensors in the central reservation barrier on motorways that would set off flashing LED’s in the event of an accident.

School: Sutton Park School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Catherine Tattersall Student(s): Bethany Doddrell

3203

Title: To investigate the importance of good posture for dentists Overview: Educating 1st year dental students on how to sit on their dental chairs in order to reduce the back and neck problems that many dentists face throughout their career.

School: St Mary’s High School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Marguerite Alley Student(s): Nessa Fitzpatrick

3204

Title: SmartphonePC Overview: To utilise the computational power of modern smartphones to reduce platform fragmentation and progress towards a single device for all of our Information Technology requirements

School: Kilkenny College County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Erica McNiece Student(s): Jack O’Sullivan

3205

Title: An aid for the rehabilitation of clenched fist in Multiple Sclerosis Overview: To provide a mechanical aid for the rehabilitation of clenched fist for people suffering from Multiple Sclerosis.

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Dr. Niamh Mc Nally Student(s): Lauren Murphy

3206

Title: Biometric fingerprint scanning used for credit card payments to combat fraud Overview: For this project I will investigate if biometric fingerprint scanning used to make credit card payments will make a difference in the fight against data fraud.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Kevin Buckley Student(s): Patrick O’Dea

3207

Title: T.E.G Phone Charger Overview: A smartphone charger powered by burning material for use in areas with inconsistant power.

School: St. Clare’s Comprehensive School County: Leitrim Teacher: Miss Edel McPhelim Student(s): Ciaran Gordon

3208

Title: Visualising better passwords Overview: The development of an improved visual password system by dragging smaller images into specified regions of a larger image.

School: C.B.S. Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Mr Brendan Hogan Student(s): Mark Fortune

3209

Title: Surfware - The Safe Web Browser Overview: My project is a safe search engine/web browser for children.

Parents will have 100% control over which websites their child can go on.

School: Castletroy College, Newtown County: Limerick Teacher: Linda Hannon Student(s): Gareth Power

SENIOR INDIVIDUAL 3300

Title: Intelli Sentry - An internet enhanced, data driven, analytical door lock management system Overview: An “Internet of Things”

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device and web-based system which sets out to solve problems regarding security, access management and monitoring associated with traditional door locks.

School: Colaiste Choilm County: Offaly Teacher: Mr Brendan McGlynn Student(s): Conor Walsh

3301

Title: The development of an app controlled device for the safe storage of medications Overview: This project involves the design and development of a device for the safe storage of medications that can be controlled by a mobile phone app.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Lavina Blanking

3302

Title: Memory buddy Overview: An electronic device to enhance independent living for those who suffer memory loss and co-ordinate the care for those more seriously affected by memory loss.

School: Our Lady’s Secondary School Monaghan County: Monaghan Teacher: Ms Kathryn Higgins Student(s): Christopher Carragher

3303

Title: E-Cooker Overview: A safe, clean and sustainable alternative to cooking with firewood or kerosene. Using Peltier effect, this device provides sufficient voltage to power a USB device.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Donal Enright Student(s): Darragh McMahon

3304

Title: An electronic vibrating mat for the aurally impaired - A sensory alert device that converts sound to touch Overview: An electronic vibrating mat for deaf people that will vibrate when receiving a signal from their mobile phone.

School: Coláiste Mhuire County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Emma Ryan Student(s): Justin Cleere

3305

Title: Neurodextro Overview: LED lights that illuminate to form chords on a guitar and ukulele.

This can be used for education or rehabilitation.

School: Belvedere College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Stephen Carey Student(s): Luc Bellintani

www.btyoungscientist.com 29

Technology 3306

Title: Can an adapted NewtonRaphson algorithm optimise Big Data software?

Overview: This project investigates the use of an adapted Newton-Raphson algorithm to optimise the runtime environment for Big Data solutions.

School: St Aloysius College County: Westmeath Teacher: Mr Keith Rowe Student(s): Lochlann O’Regan

3307

Title: QuickCom - A communication aid for the physically disabled Overview: This project will develop a system, using sensors, electronic development boards and LCD screens, that allows severely disabled people to communicate and engage in full conversations.

School: Coláiste Rís County: Louth Teacher: Mr Evan Markey Student(s): Conor Begley

3308

Title: Using speech recognition to design websites Overview: The web application I developed enables people with no programming knowledge to quickly create unique websites with just the use of their voice.

School: Rockbrook Park School County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Codie Preston Student(s): Marcin Gardas

3309

Title: Energy on sail Overview: An investigation into harnessing wind energy to generate electricity using a sail/net, initially in the context of ‘ball-stop-nets’ at sports grounds.

School: Blackrock College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Gerry Aylward Student(s): Declan Norton

JUNIOR GROUP 3400

Title: Pull-it-plug Overview: Have you checked whether all your plugs are off before you go to bed or leave your house? With our device, you don’t have to!

School: St Louis Grammar School County: Down Teacher: Mr Sean Donnelly Student(s): Molly Cunningham Alice McAlea

3401

Title: Virtual tourism Overview: We hope to develop the world’s first virtual tourism system using a combination of 3-D goggles, a game development platform and 3-D models.

School: Meánscoil Na Mbráithre County: Clare Teacher: Mr Sean Murphy Student(s): Adam Daniels Patrick Sheridan Darragh Bennis

3402

Title: ScanSaver Overview: ScanSaver is an app that scans QR codes in businesses, such as restaurants, bars and hotels, for you to get a reduction on your bill.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Blarney County: Cork Teacher: Mr Sean Foley Student(s): Anna O’Connor Sarah Sweeney

3403

Title: Moooooove Over Mammy Overview: ‘Mooooove Over Mammy’ is a device aimed at helping farmers to assist a new born animal safely.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Aoife Culhane Student(s): Jack Corkery Diarmuid O Flynn

3404

Title: Can near field communication (NFC) in phones/tablets aid assisted living for students?

Overview: Investigating whether near field communication technology can be coupled with iOS/Android platforms to assist visually impaired students by delivering important audio messages to them.

School: Killorglin Community College County: Kerry Teacher: Mr Kevin Foley Student(s): Donal Brennan Timothy McGrath

3405

Title: That’s music to my ears!

Overview: Our device helps profoundly deaf people with cochlear implants to listen to music using wireless technology.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery Student(s): Laoise Curtin Emma Roche Aoife Larkin

3406

Title: Eye Spy! Overview: Eye Spy puts a stop to students not wearing their goggles properly in the school workshop and ensuring eye safety at all times.

School: St Louis Grammar School County: Down Teacher: Mr Sean Donnelly Student(s): Aidan Small Jack Rodgers

30 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

3407

Title: Sheep Watch Overview: Sheep Watch will save the lives of sheep by using FM signalling technology in a collar that will alert the farmer to any predator attack.

School: St Oliver Post Primary County: Meath Teacher: Ms Caroline Austin Student(s): Emma McCabe Zoe Maguire Edel Campbell

3408

Title: Oideolaíocht Overview: Táimid chun feidhmchlár, scratch agus cruthanna tríthoiseach a cruthú timpeall ar na rudaí a bíonn fadhbanna le bliain a haon a thuigeaint.

School: Coláiste Chilliain County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Doireann de Nógla Student(s): Caoilfhionn Ní Dheoráin Martha nic ionais

3409

Title: Investigating the benefits of recycling technologies using and comparing a range of animal hair as an alternative to fiberglass attic insulation Overview: This project investigates the insulation properties of different animal hair when compared with fibreglass as a potential alternative natural recycled insulation and a more environmentally friendly product.

School: Ardscoil Ris County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Jack Corrigan Student(s): David Hamilton Paul Hamilton

3410

Title: Blitz!

Overview: An effective method of studying for exams or tests using a timed device. Students will aim to beat the timer by answering questions.

School: St Louis Grammar School County: Down Teacher: Mr Sean Donnelly Student(s): Conor Higgins Stephen Cooney

3411

Title: Smoke detector for the deaf or hard of hearing Overview: A smoke detector for the deaf, built using a microphone to pick up the frequency and sending it to a receiver that will notify the victim.

School: Mount Mercy College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Aaron O’Sullivan Student(s): Zainab Baker Aoife O’Driscoll

3412

Title: Alert-Cow calving!

Overview: Our project is a system that alerts farmers via SMS that their cow has started calving.

School: Gallen Community School

County: Offaly Teacher: Mrs Catherine Hopkins Student(s): Sean Flynn Clive Keena

3413

Title: To adapt a car steering wheel that senses driver distraction, alerts the driver and thus reduces the accidents and fatalities caused by driver fatigue Overview: To adapt a car steering wheel that senses driver distraction, alerts the driver and thus reduces the accidents and fatalities caused by driver fatigue.

School: Summerhill College County: Sligo Teacher: Mr Niall McDermott Student(s): Sean Casey Michael Kerins Michael Gilmartin

3414

Title: Digilab Overview: Many primary schools don’t do science because of the lack of facilities. I believe the solution would be Digilab, an interactive computer program and tablet app.

School: St Patrick’s Classical School County: Meath Teacher: Ms O’Sullivan Sinéad O’Sullivan Student(s): Tom Fitzgerald Joe Fitzgerald Conor Mcguire

3415

Title: Gas-Hear: A device to prevent lives being lost to slurry fumes Overview: To develop a new fixed slurry gas monitor that will sound an alarm and send a text when toxic gas levels rise to life-threatening levels.

School: Presentation Secondary School - Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Olivia O’Brien Student(s): Ellen O’Donnell Alice Ryan Estelle Parkinson

3416

Title: Clippy bin Overview: Our innovative new design that will prevent wheelie bins from toppling over in high winds or by an animal.

School: Coláiste Bhaile Chláir County: Galway Teacher: Ms Eleanor Nolan Student(s): Eoghan Furey Ruairi Gallagher

3417

Title: The silent whistle Overview: We aim to develop a wearable device to help sports players with hearing impairments acknowledge the whistle of a referee during a match or training.

School: Salesian Secondary College,

Pallaskenry County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Claire Sheehy Student(s): Ross Fitzgerald Zoe Mangan Padraic Hartigan

INTERMEDIATE GROUP 3500

Title: Building a cluster computer from raspberry pi components Overview: We want to design and build a high end cluster computer from 5 raspberry pi computers that we have in the lab.

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Kevin Carey Student(s): Leo Francis Jack Kiely

3501

Title: So this CAN heat us!

Overview: This project uses recycled materials to produce a household heater that is easily transportable and powered by solar energy.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery Student(s): Diarmuid Curtin Eamonn Browne Conor Kennedy

3502

Title: Staidéar ar thimpistí dréimirí agus an dóigh le iad a dhéanamh níos sábháilte Overview: We are investigating accidents which have occurred while using ladders in the past few years.

We are developing a safety device to prevent ladder accidents.

School: Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair County: Donegal Teacher: Miss Leanna Ní Bhaoill Student(s): Micheal Mac Mathuna Shaun Ó Duibhir

3503

Title: Ultimate kicking tee Overview: The optimum rugby kicking tee - it negates the effects of bad weather on place kicks, giving the kicker the fairest opportunity for converting their place kick.

School: Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Michael Mc Carthy Student(s): Daniel Enright Brian Riordan Ben Ryan

3504

Title: Palm powered controller Overview: I have designed a games controller charger that is powered by the heat of the human hand. This device has many applications in other appliances.

School: Desmond College - Limerick

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County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery Student(s): Sean McElligott Robert Meehan

3505

Title: Wi-Pi Cam Overview: The Wi-Pi Cam is a small Pi camera in a polymorph enclosure that can send video coverage to your mobile phone via a WiFi hotspot connection.

School: St Killian’s College County: Antrim Teacher: Mr Sean Connolly Student(s): Niall Black Murray Emerson

3506

Title: Low-pressure solar powered water desalinator Overview: We are going to create a low cost, efficient, solar powered water desalinator by reducing the pressure to make the water distill faster.

School: Clonakilty Community College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Patrick O Keeffe Student(s): Ruairí McCann Cathal O’Regan

3507

Title: The TB bracket Overview: A device which sits over a cow’s head to ensure that the TB injections are installed in the correct side of the cow’s neck.

School: Avondale Community College County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Aoife Sullivan Student(s): David Fleming Conor Windsor

3508

Title: You’ve got mail!

Overview: We have developed a device that ends worthless journeys to the postbox. A text will be sent to the householder on arrival of post.

School: St Joseph’s College County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Mary Gorey Student(s): Ciara Ryan Jack O’Meara John Ryan

3509

Title: Cytherean industries: Thinking outside the sphere Overview: Our project proposes a roadmap to guide humanity to industrialise space resources and ultimately to enable us to become an interplanetary species.

School: C.B.S. Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Mr Brendan Hogan Student(s): Tommy O’Sullivan Micheal O’Callaghan

3510

Title: Shine and rise Overview: An alarm device that opens

curtains in the morning to a desired length, allowing sunlight into the room and helping to wake up individuals.

School: Bush Post Primary School County: Louth Teacher: Ms Emma McMahon Student(s): Adam Traynor Conor Kenny

3511

Title: There’s more to light than meets the eye Overview: Design, development and testing of a low cost optical spectrometer on a camera-phone.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Lorcan O’Brien Neil O’Brien

3512

Title: An investigation of motorway noise pollution Overview: An investigation into motorway noise pollution, its effects on suburban homes and a comparison of existing and novel noise reduction methods.

School: St Colmcille’s Community School County: Dublin Teacher: Dr Tom Foyle Student(s): Jessica Harris Catherine Cuddy Helena Bonar

3513

Title: A seed harvesting kit for subsistence farmers in developing countries Overview: The aim of our project is to produce a kit for African farmers to save seeds from their own crops, for replanting the following season.

School: Oakgrove Integrated College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Christine Gilmore Student(s): Megan Duffy Zoe McGirr

3514

Title: Tesseract gaming Overview: A first person shooting, free-running, randomly generated video game, in which the player can edit and level up their character.

Harnesses new game-play mechanics.

School: Ardscoil Uí Urmoltaigh County: Cork Teacher: Mr Declan Hayes Student(s): Eoin Murray Ronan Hadyon Ian Campbell

3515

Title: Is there an efficient way to produce hydrogen as a fuel?

Overview: This project tackles the problem of an efficient way to produce hydrogen. For BT, we are demonstrating the experimentation

@btyste

behind our theory.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Michelle Buckley Student(s): Sean Lane Alan Dwane

3516

Title: Can an Android kernel be redesigned to work with a variety of devices?

Overview: An Android kernel that would work with a variety of different devices, with little to no modifications.

School: St Aloysius College County: Westmeath Teacher: Mr Keith Rowe Student(s): Chris Halota Eryk Zaplata Oisin Prendergast

3517

Title: Wireless appliances accessed via your smartphone Overview: Using a wireless radio module and a smartphone we can open a door or turn off lights automatically or via a button.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Joseph O’ Donovan Casey Ring

3518

Title: OkToEat Overview: An app for people with a health condition or allergy that determines whether the food product is safe to eat or not.

School: Gaelcholaiste Na Mara Arklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Rebecca Ní Chonchúir Student(s): Alexandra Purtell Jordan Meadbh O’Connor

3519

Title: Third World thermoelectric generator Overview: We intend to use thermoelectric coolers to make a generator that could be used to power electrical devices in the Third World.

School: De La Salle College County: Waterford Teacher: Ms Mary McDonagh Student(s): Frankie Dolphin Dara Musgrave Conor Giles-Doran

3520

Title: Ladder safety attachment Overview: This project has designed a safety attachment for ladders to prevent ladder-related injuries and fatalities. The attachment prevents the ladder from falling/slipping.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery

www.btyoungscientist.com 31

Technology Student(s): Liam Dowling Conor Leahy

Laura White Kayleigh Brosnan

3521

3526

Title: Cé chomh sábháilte atá do phasfhocal?

Overview: We aim to evaluate how difficult passwords are to crack and find out whether age and gender impact on how secure ones password is.

School: Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair County: Donegal Teacher: Ms Susan Ní Loinsigh Student(s): Niall De Barra Carlo McGinley

3522

Title: Solar updraft technology - An investigation into the possibility of using solar updraft technology in Africa Overview: We investigate the possibility of using solar updraft technology to generate electrical power in Africa.

School: Dominican College - Wicklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr John O’Brien Student(s): Zoe Byrne Carrie Corkish

3523

Title: Waste not, heat more Overview: Our idea involves the capture of escaping heat from a chimney using a metal coil to heat a house’s water supply.

School: Sacred Heart Secondary School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Claire Holland Student(s): Ailbhe Murphy Julie O Donovan

3524

Title: The construction and testing of a differentiating smoke detector Overview: Our project aims to build a smoke detector circuit that can differentiate between different smoke types and to test the circuit with a variety of sources.

School: Mercy Secondary School Longford County: Longford Teacher: Mr. Tony O’ Rourke Student(s): Emma Donohoe Chloe Murtagh Jack Kenny

3525

Title: An examination of the hazards associated with livestock gases and how these gases can be utilized to produce energy in the farmyard environment Overview: Our project aims to examine the hazards associated with livestock gases and to come up with a solution to these problems.

School: Colaiste Ide and Iosef County: Limerick Teacher: Ms. Joannah Kennedy Student(s): Imogen Lyons

Title: A helping hand Overview: The aim of our project is to create an app to teach teens the fundamentals of sign language in their daily conversation.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Dr MAire Flynn Student(s): Aoibh Cassidy Alice Symington Sharon Coombes

3527

Title: The retrofitting of domestic septic tanks with aerobic digesters to improve efficiency Overview: Installing aerobic digesters into pre-existing septic tanks to improve their efficiency at a lower cost than buying a new tank.

School: St Augustines College County: Waterford Teacher: Ms. Nollaig Sheehan Student(s): Shane Coleman Jordan Corby

3528

Title: An investigation into the application of electrostatic precipitation to filter microbeads from waste water Overview: We plan to design and develop a small scale wet electrostatic precipitator capable of filtering microbeads from waste water.

School: Skerries Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Dr Katie Corbett Student(s): Luke Breen Des Cooke Daniel Carey Keatings

3529

Overview: To investigate whether a heated electric eye patch can be designed to replace warm compresses in the treatment of eye cysts.

School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Jamie Bain Student(s): Alex Griffin Nicole Hemeryck Caoilainn McDaid

3532

Title: Medical devices for the (sustainable) future Overview: We will design and make a prototype of an environmentally friendly disposable breath-activated dry powder inhaler for use by asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease sufferers.

School: Presentation Secondary School - Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Olivia O’Brien Student(s): Emma Finlay Ciara Moloney Keelan Flynn

3533

Title: A comparison of the effectiveness of hand shuffling methods versus electronic shuffling, including our electronic shuffling programme Overview: We are comparing different methods of shuffling to see if there are any patterns in the cards. After these shuffles, we will repeat with electronic shufflers, including our programme.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Blarney County: Cork Teacher: Mr Sean Foley Student(s): Cormac Conway Connor Stoyle

Title: Manufacturing an electronically controlled robotic arm Overview: The design and manufacture of a portable, powered robotic arm that is capable of manipulating small hand tools.

School: Salesian Secondary College, Pallaskenry County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Kevin Geaney Student(s): Alex Griffin Kevin Moran

3534

3530

Title: Skin booth Overview: We aim to raise awareness of the danger of UV light on the skin using UV beads and an app.

School: Salesian Secondary College, Pallaskenry County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Claire Sheehy Student(s): Julie Mangan Emily Ryan Ciara Gavin

Title: Postural augmentation device Overview: A device that can aid injured or elderly people to stand up.

School: Glanmire Community College County: Cork Teacher: Mr William Horgan Student(s): Bradley Aherne Eoghan O’ Sullivan

3531

Title: The treatment of common eye cysts using a heated electric eye patch

32 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

Title: Recycling body heat Overview: Our project investigates the potential of recycling the heat in our exhaled breath to warm our bodies.

School: Marist College - Athlone County: Westmeath Teacher: Mr Cian O’Brien Student(s): Jack Brody Corey Reid Oisin O’ Meara

3535

3536

Title: Creating a language and speech development software Overview: To develop a language and speech learning software that will help autistic children learn language.

School: Presentation College County: Galway Teacher: ms jamie connors Student(s): Eoin Dodd Manus Corcoran Ciara Kelly

3537

Title: An Tionchar (The impact hurling boot) Overview: To design a hurling boot that provides sufficient support for hurling/camogie players, as soccer boots don’t support the parts of the foot used in hurling/camogie.

School: St.Brendan’s Community School County: Offaly Teacher: Ms Aisling Duane Student(s): Shiofra Ryan Orlaith Plunkett

3538

Title: Bicycle helmet safety device Overview: 70% of cyclists killed on our roads aren’t wearing a helmet.

We want to combat this by creating a device which ensures they wear one.

School: Salesian Secondary College, Pallaskenry County: Limerick Teacher: Mr John O’Flynn Student(s): Robert Corby Michael Uwatse

SENIOR GROUP 3600

Title: Building in microgravity: A step closer Overview: We sent the first ever Irish secondary school experiment into space. We investigated the effects of microgravity on reinforced concrete.

School: St Nessan’s Community College County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Gavin Doyle Student(s): Jason Hannan Kevin Hanley Jamie O’Connell

3601

Title: Height adjustable crutch Overview: Crutch-users often aggravate their injuries when they need to sit down or stand up. This provides crutch-users the ability to get into sitting position safely.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Donal Enright Student(s): Emma Herbert Danielle O’ Connor Nikita Harnett

3602

Title: To make marathon kayaking safer and eliminate human error Overview: To eliminate human error in safety checks and race finishes of marathon kayaking through the use of an android app and electronic tags.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Julie Gleeson Student(s): Sean Cahill Timothy O Niaha

3603

Title: Time compressed transport tester Overview: Our transport tester simulates road transport conditions to test electronic goods weighing up to 100kg in a time compressed test equivalent to very long distances.

School: St Killian’s College County: Antrim Teacher: Mr Sean Connolly Student(s): Rachael O’ Boyle Eimhear Carey Leah Cosgrove

3604

Title: The point of a parabola: Focusing signals for a better wireless network Overview: Our project aims to build a parabolic reflector and measure how it boosts the signal of a wireless router’s antenna.

School: Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Maggie Smith Student(s): Eleonora Micozzi Lara Sophia Unger

3605

Title: Scivision Overview: Our project is a science revision website for Junior Certificate students, with the entire Junior Certificate science syllabus covered.

School: St Dominics College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Nigel Tierney Student(s): Adaobi Ezenwa Orna Reynolds Chidera Ezenwa

3606

Title: An innovative device that recycles and purifies water used to wash milking machines and transfers it to troughs for cattle consumption Overview: A device that recycles and purifies water used in washing the milking machine and then transfers it to cattle troughs for cattle consumption.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery Student(s): Eoghan Mcmahon Shane Lee

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3607

Title: An investigation into the possibilities and further development of WiFi tracking Overview: Investigating the possibilities of tracking through WiFi, creating our own tracking system, demonstrating it at the BTYSE, and implementing it into our school’s rollcall system.

School: Gonzaga College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Daniel Lynch Student(s): Conor Farrell Andrew Cleary Philip Johnston

3608

Title: Sliotar Tracker Overview: Our project aims to develop a sliotar which can be tracked using a smartphone app. The app will also record distance, speed and impact.

School: Causeway Comprehensive School County: Kerry Teacher: Mrs Jennifer Barry Student(s): Aoife Mahony Breanne Barrett Freya Casey

3609

Title: Smart traffic Overview: Our aim is to use information sharing technology to make our road networks safer and more efficient and make self-driving cars a reality.

School: Luttrellstown Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Peter McCabe Student(s): Akhil Voorakkara Aron Hoffmann Annraoi Campbell

3610

Title: Wise buoys Overview: Our projects aim is to improve water safety through the use of our new and improved lifebuoy.

School: C.B.S. Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Mr Fergus O’Brien Student(s): Jamie Stapleton Paul Hennessy James O’ Sullivan

3611

Title: Badger tracking technology Overview: We are going to develop the technology to investigate whether badgers spread TB when they are around cattle.

School: North Monastery Secondary School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Kieran Ruby Student(s): Peter Lin Wyne Ybanez Naphatsakorn Khotsombat

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www.btyoungscientist.com 33

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FOOD COURT

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04 BT Arena - Opening Ceremony - Awards Ceremony - W5 - Light Fantastic - Roney & Joe Science Show - Titan the Robot 05 The World of Robots 06 Wall of fame

07 The World of Science & Technology 08 Ring Bistro 09 Meeting Points 1 & 2 for coach party departure 10 Primary Science 11 STEM 12 Eco Zone

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13 Food Concessions 14 Screen 3D – Student Club 15 “Bang the Drum” with Irish Aid - Drumming Workshop 16 RSA Interactive Shuttle 17 Food Court

www.btyoungscientist.com 35

Biological & Ecological Sciences JUNIOR INDIVIDUAL 4100

Title: There are no sharks in Ireland... or are there?

Overview: I am researching the overall status of sharks types and populations in Ireland. I am also looking at their migrational patterns to and from Ireland.

School: St Andrew’s College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Nicky King Student(s): Megan Collins

4101

Title: Testing limpet homing behaviour when change factor introduced Overview: This is a shore experiment to determine the homing patterns of a moved community of limpets and an unmoved community over a 60 day period.

School: Rice College County: Clare Teacher: Ms Danelle Fitzpatrick Student(s): James Madigan

4102

Title: Morphological differences in Himanthalia elongata found at different locations in North Clare Overview: I am looking to see if there are morphological differences in Himanthalia elongata found on different shores in North Clare and possible causes of these.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Jessica Kelly

4103

Title: Is music in the hands?

Overview: Does the size of your hand influence the instrument that you would play?

School: Loreto Secondary School County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Aoife McCarthy Student(s): Emily Woods

4104

Title: Myriophyllum spicatum and Elodea canadensis - An ecological study of Wavin freshwater lake Overview: In this project I wish to investigate the invasive Elodea canadensis and a sustainable method of removing this threat from Irish waters.

School: Ardgillan Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Mrs Theresa Gannon Student(s): Jack Curtis

4105

Title: Investigating the connection between allergies and childhood exposure to animals Overview: This is a survey which will attempt to correlate childhood

exposure to animals and incidence of allergies.

School: Maynooth Post Primary School County: Kildare Teacher: Mr. Tom Dixon Student(s): Aisling Doherty-Madrigal

4106

Title: Let snails do the cleaning!

Overview: An investigation into how Lymnea stagnalis controls the growth of algae and maintains the eco-balance of a pond, especially during nutrient overload.

School: Schull Community College County: Cork Teacher: Ms Larissa Kelly Student(s): Fionn Ferreira

4107

Title: The impact of freezing on seed germination Overview: I’m going to perform multiple experiments to test if freezing tropical seeds shall have a positive impact on germination and grow them in a hydroponic.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Julie Hanlon Student(s): Abigail Mulcahy

4108

Title: An investigation into the effects of coffee grounds combined with grey water on seed germination and plant growth Overview: Through my investigation I hope to combine two waste products, coffee grounds and grey water, to create a valuable resource for gardeners.

School: Mount Mercy College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Aaron O’Sullivan Student(s): Kate O’Gorman

4109

Title: Rate of perceived exertion: Does it depend on the gym machine used and the sport teenagers play?

Overview: Does the rate of perceived exertion compared to exercise intensity vary between activities on gym machines for teenage boys who play Rugby or Gaelic?

School: The Kings Hospital County: Dublin Teacher: Mr David Plummer Student(s): Dylan Bagnall

4110

Title: Waste not, want not: The fertiliser potential of kitchen waste compost leachate Overview: This project investigates the fertiliser potential of kitchen waste compost compared to a commercial liquid fertiliser and a control using seed germination and growth tests.

School: Tullamore College County: Offaly Teacher: Miss Jillian Browne Student(s): Cillian Fogarty

36 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

4111

Title: How earthworms react to sound, pitch and rhythm Overview: A study into the behavior of earthworms in response to sound, pitch and rhythm.

School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Yseult Whitaker Student(s): Hana Gallagher

4112

Title: Staidéar ar an beach heala agus an pailín Overview: Táim chun fáil amach faoi céard a dhéanann na beacha leis an pailín atá sna coirceoga agus na beacha agus an mil atá istigh ann.

School: Ennis Community College, Gaelcholaíste an Chlaír County: Clare Teacher: Ms Martina McNamara Student(s): Muireann Long

4113

Title: Age and diabetic neuropathy Overview: To establish whether there is a relationship between diabetic neoropathy and the duration of time a person suffers from diabetes.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Taylor Fagan

INTERMEDIATE INDIVIDUAL 4200

Title: A cellular analysis of the effects of garlic extract on cancer cell growth Overview: To assess whether preparing or storing garlic in different ways affects its ability to inhibit or prevent cancer cell growth, and how it does so.

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Dr. Niamh McNally Student(s): Renuka Chintapalli

4201

Title: An investigation into bacterial counts of holy water in church fonts Overview: This project investigates bacterial counts in holy water in church fonts, and looks for a method of reducing the bacteria levels in the water.

School: St Eunan’s College County: Donegal Teacher: Mrs Maryanne Lavin Student(s): Conor Farrell

4202

Title: The effect of water hardness on the germination of plants Overview: My project will test the effect of water hardness on the germination of plants and determine what the optimum hardness is.

School: Ballinamore Community School County: Leitrim

Teacher: Mr Eamon Geoghegan Student(s): Conor McGrath

4203

Title: A comparative investigation of various clays for possible antibacterial properties Overview: This project investigates a selection of various clays for their possible antibacterial properties and potential use in wound dressings.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Aoife Nash

4204

Title: An investigation into a novel technology that allows water to be filtered through vascular plants Overview: An investigation into a possible solution to the problem of bacteria infected water using vascular plants as a filter.

School: Dominican College - Wicklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr John O’Brien Student(s): Erika Dunne

4205

Title: Hoof wall separation disease in Ireland’s Connemara pony Overview: An investigation into hoof wall separation disease in Ireland’s Connemara pony with analysis to determine the key ancestral lines carrying the defective gene.

School: Moate Community School County: Westmeath Teacher: Ms Irene O’Sullivan Student(s): Colin Doyle

4206

Title: Does the lunar cycle have an effect on the movement of periwinkles (Littorina littorea) Overview: I am looking at the movement of periwinkles (Littorina littorea) on a number of shores to see if it is related to the lunar cycle.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Órlaith Bowen

4207

Title: What is the importance of eye and ear cues in attention and communication of racehorses and ponies, and do they react in a similar way to humans?

Overview: Is there a difference in response to eye and ear cues between a pony and a racehorse and do similar cues apply to humans.

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Dr. Niamh McNally Student(s): Lorna McGuinness

4208

Title: Coiléipteirí Iúrasach Overview: Increasing the size of

Darkling beetle larva by raising them in oxygen rich conditions.

School: Gaelcholaiste Na Mara - Arklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Rebecca Ní Chonchúir Student(s): Tom Kinsella

4209

Title: To investigate the natural degredation and decay of fruit and hence ascertain the optimum time for prevention of decay Overview: The project will test fruit during stages of decay and degradation including changes in sugar content, weight, optimum temperature of mould growth and decay time.

School: Ardgillan Community College County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Aoife Smith Student(s): Ruaidhri Kennedy

4210

Title: A comparative investigation on the effect of various salts on the hibernation of e-coli Overview: This project investigates the effect of various salts on the hibernation of e-coli by slowly evaporating saline solutions to dryness and then rehydrating them.

School: St Mary’s College County: Londonderry Teacher: Mrs Ann Blanking Student(s): Erin McPhilemy

4211

Title: Risk mitigation in the provision of blood-thinning drugs as an early intervention for stroke victims Overview: To look for ways to reduce the risks associated with administering TPA to stroke victims and to communicate information about the patient to medical professionals.

School: Patrician High School Carrickmacross County: Monaghan Teacher: Mr John O’Rourke Student(s): Cillian Gartlan

4212

Title: An bhfuil an citira sprús an crann is fearr chun carbón a thógaint isteach?

Overview: Ba mhaith liom fáil amach cad é an crann is fearr chun Carbón a thógaint isteach, tríd meastachán dlús agus meachan an crann.

School: Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Clodagh Ní Chróinín Student(s): Seamas Bulaeir

4213

Title: An investigation of common Irish plants’ ability to remediate contaminated soils Overview: I intend to investigate the ability of Irish plants, such as whiteclover and bent-grass, to remediate lead, copper and zinc contaminated soils, versus a globally recognised accumulator.

School: Bandon Grammar School

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County: Cork Teacher: Dr Maire Flynn Student(s): Elsa Harte

County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Stephen O’Connell

4214

4302

Title: Injury increasing crop yields Overview: My project is based on the idea of increasing the yield of crops by physically injuring the young seedling.

School: Glanmire Community College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Dan O’Sullivan Student(s): Mark O Dowd

4215

Title: Effect of swimming pool water, sea water and UV light on hair Overview: To study the effect of prolonged exposure to water and UV rays on structure, strength, texture and colour of different types of hair.

School: Christ King Girls Secondary School County: Cork Teacher: Ms Lucy O’Farrell Student(s): Natasha Singhal

4216

Title: The investigation and analysis of soil compaction Overview: I propose to investigate and analyse soil compaction, its causes and its implications on crop yield.

School: Coláiste Mhuire County: Galway Teacher: Ms Geraldine Fallon Student(s): Cian o Leary

4217

Title: To investigate magnetoception in Cornu Aspersum Overview: To investigate if the common garden snail (Cornu Asperum) uses earth’s magnetic field to navigate, and to show how this can be manipulated using electromagnets.

School: Presentation College County: Cork Teacher: Dr Lynda Meiklejohn Student(s): Mark O’Gorman

SENIOR INDIVIDUAL 4300

Title: The viability of insect farms in Ireland; The food source of the future Overview: To determine the possibility of edible insects being a viable and nutritional food source in Ireland compared to today’s traditional livestock farms.

School: Midleton College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Paudie Scanlon Student(s): Kevin Carew

4301

Title: Follow me into a lobster pot Lobster preferences when entering a lobster pot Overview: I am looking to see whether a lobster or crab already in a lobster pot influences another lobster to enter it.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna

Title: To investigate if the shape of an egg affects the hatch rate in chickens Overview: To determine if the shape of a chicken egg affects the hatching rate which could possibly save poultry breeders time and effort when hatching eggs.

School: Moville Community College County: Donegal Teacher: Ms Rachel McGuinness Student(s): Jack McDermott

4303

Title: Brap: Boxers handwrap, preventing wrist injury in boxing Overview: I have designed a wrist support device to reduce wrist injuries in boxing caused by dorsiflexion and plantorflexion of the wrist, and to aid in wrist injury rehabilitation.

School: St Vincent’s Secondary School County: Louth Teacher: Mr John White Student(s): Rachael NíDhonnachadha

4304

Title: An investigation into the negative effects of wearing contact lenses in sport Overview: I intend on investigating the negative effects that contact lenses have on sport performance. I want to compare the perfomance of glasses versus contact lenses.

School: Newbridge College County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Anne Marie Davis Student(s): Aoife Cudmore

4305

Title: To develop and functionalise a graphene-based biosensor to measure attractin, a protein biomarker for highgrade gliomas Overview: To detect and measure attractin by functionalising graphene with anti-attractin antibody and incorporating this into a sensor.

Detectable attractin in the cerebrospinal fluid indicates gliomas.

School: Our Ladys College - Drogheda County: Louth Teacher: Miss Frances O’Regan Student(s): Elle Loughran

4306

Title: Glucós choirpe a iniuchadh Overview: To investigate how blood glucose sugar levels change with exercise, and how to stabilize those levels during and after exercise.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Micheál Ó Giobúin Student(s): Cristian Scally

JUNIOR GROUP 4400

Title: Using enzymes from fruits such

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as pineapples and papaya as natural meat tenderisers Overview: We have investigated the enzyme from pineapple (bromelain) and the enzyme from papaya (papain) as cheap, natural and simple meat tenderisers.

School: Sutton Park School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Catherine Tattersall Student(s): David Deneher Sebastian Groult

4401

Title: How to outsmart a sheep!

Overview: A project that investigates the correct method of catching and holding a sheep to avoid injury to both the farmer and the animal.

School: Avondale Community College County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Michelle Finnegan Student(s): Luke Roche Adam Cowman

4402

Title: To investigate whether there is a relationship between plant biomass and leaf area and to determine the effects of herbivory on plant biomass Overview: To investigate whether a mathematical relationship exists between the plant biomass and leaf area and to determine the effects of herbivory on the plant biomass.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Susan Timmons Ayesha Healy-Thow

4403

Title: Fiosrúchán ar an ngaol idir a bheith deisealach nó ciotach agus cumas éisteachta agus cloisint an cluas dheis agus an cluas chlé.

Overview: Ta muid ag fháil amach an difríocht idir an cluais clé agus an cluais dheis agus comparáid idir deisealach agus ciotach.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Shane Ó Breacáin Student(s): Bronagh Ni Sheridain Sarah NicEanna

4404

Title: The effects of Pro-Cal on the growth of plants Overview: We wish to investigate the effects of Pro-Cal on the growth of broad bean plants.

School: St Peter’s College - Dunboyne County: Meath Teacher: Ms Marie Louise McElroy Student(s): Aoife O Donnell Georgia Dillon

4405

Title: The production of single cell proteins to supply long duration space missions with a nutritious food supply Overview: We are going to investigate the production of single cell proteins

www.btyoungscientist.com 37

Biological & Ecological Sciences in nutritious paste formats, thus addressing the problem of supplying nutritious food required by astronauts on long space missions.

School: St Mary’s Secondary School Mallow County: Cork Teacher: Mr Martin Timmons Student(s): Eibhlis Myers Anna Burns

4406

Title: Is it possible to dye insulin?

Overview: Is it possible to dye insulin in order to make it more visible (visible air bubbles/volume), in order to help prevent high blood sugar?

School: St Joseph Of Cluny County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Naomi Torpey Student(s): Catherine Murphy Holly Hunt Lucy Gammell

trees in different forests in North Clare and possible factors that affect it.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Ashling O’Connell Claire Reilly

4411

Title: An méid fórsa gur féidir le néad Gabhlán Binne a ghlacadh Overview: We are looking to find out how much weight a house martin’s nest can hold and if they are stronger if built by human materials.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Shane Ó Breacáin Student(s): Sally Ní Annagáin Niamh Ní Chléirigh

4412

Title: Fiosrúchán ar éifeacht dhonnú bréige ar fhás phlandaí Overview: Éifeacht dhonnú bréige ar fhás phlandaí a fhiosrú le coimheastóirí agus airde agus mais na bplandaí a thomhais tar éis tréimhse ama.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Shane Ó Breacáin Student(s): Courtney Coyle Laura Monagle

Title: Growth of probiotics on colostrum, mature milk and baby formula Overview: We are comparing the growth of probiotics on colostrum, mature milk and baby formula to see which milk is the most suitable milk for growth.

School: Scoil Mhuire Strokestown County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Modwena Geoghegan Student(s): Kieran Westerberg Kathy Jones

4408

4413

4407

Title: Sugar on trial: A comparative study to assess the relative sweetness of beet and cane sugar and the resultant potential for sugar reduction Overview: To investigate whether there is a difference between perceived sweetness of beet and cane sugar and whether sugar reduction is an option in our diet.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Eve Casey Cathy Hynes

4409

Title: An bhfuil éifeacht ag cineálacha bia éagsúla a mhaith nó nach maith le daoine ar leathnú an mhac-imrisc.

Overview: Tá muid ag iarraidh fáil amach an bhfuil eifeacht ar na cineálacha bia ar maith le nó nach maith le daoine ar leathnú an mhacimrisc.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Shane Ó Breacáin Student(s): Joyce Wylde Aisling Ní Fhearáin Maighread Ní Cheallabhuí

4410

Title: Pattern of moss growth on coniferous trees Overview: We are looking at the pattern of moss growth on coniferous

Title: A study of how the light emitted by bioluminescent dinoflagellates is affected by common chemical pollutants in Irish waters?

Overview: Our project aims to assess the effectiveness of using bioluminescence algae as a biomonitor of aquatic pollution.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Tina Reynolds Student(s): Hannah Kellett Aisling Hurley Ramiya Reynolds

4414

Title: Perfect pollock: Adding value to Ireland’s line-caught pollock Overview: Our project investigates the effect of breeding pollock on its quality and shelf-life, to increase its value and make it more appealing to consumers.

School: Schull Community College County: Cork Teacher: Ms Larissa Kelly Student(s): Tarah Fleming Aoife Nash

4415

Title: Are teenage girls 13-15 with minor leg length discrepancy more likely to suffer from sports injuries than girls who don’t?

Overview: Using surveys, measuring and a gait analysis application, we are investigating whether teenage girls

38 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

13-15 with leg discrepancy are likely to receive more sports injuries than others.

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Dr. Niamh McNally Student(s): Hannah Rudden Anna Sowray Kelsey Wilson

4416

Title: Imscrúdú ar na táirbhí teirpeacha atá ag brocaileathoir do daoine le pluchas roimh agus le linn aclaiocht Overview: Ta mé ag iarraidh imscrúdu a dhéanamh ar na leas teripeach (má tá said ann) ata ag broncaileathóra ar plúchas roimh/le linn aclaíocht/spórt.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Shane Ó Breacáin Student(s): Jesseka nic an Bhreithiún uí Ghallachór Aoibhinn Ní Ghallachóir

4417

Title: Does size matter when hermit crabs choose a shell?

Overview: We are looking to see if there is a relationship between the size of shell used by a hermit crab and their body size.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Lucy O’Growney Lara Norrish

4418

Title: Insect Farming: Is it the future for Irish farms?

Overview: Our project aims to explore the notion that Irish farms could turn to insects to make a sustainable living, rather than traditional food sources.

School: St. Mary’s College County: Galway Teacher: Mr Anthony Carey Student(s): Patrick Davoren Ethan O’Brien Daniel McDonagh

4419

Title: Examination of the fluctuations of salinity and nutrient content of the water in a turlough close to the sea Overview: We are looking at what effect rainfall has on the salinity and nutrient content of the water in a turlough close to the sea.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Jane O’Loughlin Melissa Roche

4420

Title: Triail chun fáil amach an bhfuil baint ar bith idir BMI an duine agus an méid bachlóga blaise atá acu.

Overview: Tionscnamh ag iarraidh fáil

amach an bhfuil BMI níos lú ag daoine atá nósúil faoi bhia as siocair go bhfuil níos mó bachlóga blaise acu.

School: Coláiste Oiriall County: Monaghan Teacher: Miss Aoife Ní Chonaráin Student(s): Niamh Ní Mhaolábhail Aideen NicGabhann

4421

Title: The rates of dissolution and absorption of different types of aspirin tablets Overview: To investigate the rates of dissolving and absorption of different types of asprin tablets in different carbohydrates and to evaluate their effectiveness.

School: Wellington College County: Antrim Teacher: Mrs Yvonne Johnston Student(s): Becky Patterson Molly Graham

4422

Title: Bacteria found on supermarket fruit, before and after rinsing Overview: We plan to investigate the type of bacteria found on supermarket fruit. We then plan to compare microbial fauna on washed and unwashed fruit.

School: C.B.S. Westland Row County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Karoline Uhlemann Student(s): Chelsea Treacy Erika Burke Beloy Nolasco

4423

Title: A study of the movement of outwintering cattle in the Burren Overview: To investigate, using GPS, the movement of cattle wintering in the Burren in relation to weather, water sources, grass cover and terrain.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Thomas Hartigan Dara Kenneally

4424

Title: An bhfuil éifeacht ag dath do súile ar do radharc?

Overview: Tá muid ag déanamh staidear ar éifeacht ag dath súile ar radharc.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Máistrais Siobhán NiLaighneach Student(s): Caoimhe Doherty Sarah McCloughan

4425

Title: An ecological comparison of conventional tillage versus strip-till after one season Overview: A field of barley was sown half in the conventional way and half by strip-till. Our project compares the soil ecology of each side.

School: Athlone Community College County: Westmeath Teacher: Mrs Susan Auchmuty Student(s): Caoimhe McIntyre Aine O’ Meara

4426

Title: iPads... a weight off our backs?

Overview: We are investigating whether replacing traditional school books with iPads will affect the weight of school bags. This information will hopefully help in developing schoolbag policies.

School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jennifer Campbell Student(s): Susie Gill Rachel Lynch Sarah Kelly

4427

Title: A comparison of mushroom growth using rain water and treated water Overview: We compare the growth of mushrooms using rain water and treated water.

School: Dominican College - Wicklow County: Wicklow Teacher: Mr John O’Brien Student(s): Caoimhe O’Neill Eve Christie

4428

Title: What swims in the rock pools of North Clare?

Overview: We are looking at what fish species are found in the rock pools in North Clare and if they vary from shore to shore.

School: Mary Immaculate Secondary School - Lisdoonvarna County: Clare Teacher: Mr John Sims Student(s): Isabelle Walsh Ellen King

4429

Title: An investigation into the conditions favourable for bread mould growth Overview: The aim of our project is to identify controllable factors that will inhibit bread mould growth and to investigate the effectiveness of certain anti-mould ingredients.

School: Avondale Community College County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Aoife Sullivan Student(s): Sean Byrne Wayne Costello

4430

Title: To study the benefits of direct sowing grass rather than conventional sowing of grass Overview: Our project aims to examine the differences between direct sowing of grass and the conventional sowing of grass.

School: Ramsgrange Community School County: Wexford Teacher: Mr Jonathan Reynolds

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Student(s): Ben Pierce Neil Pierce

4431

Title: Music near a fowl coop as a deterrent to foxes Overview: We investigate whether playing music near a fowl coop keeps the fox away and your hens safe!

School: Salesian Secondary College, Pallaskenry County: Limerick Teacher: Mr John O’Flynn Student(s): Sarah Heavenor Hollie O’Connor Rachel Judge

4432

Title: Relaxation techniques vs. drugs: A safer way to get to sleep Overview: We look at non-medicinal alternatives to help people get a full night of restful sleep.

School: Lanesboro Community College County: Longford Teacher: Mr Michael Lyons Student(s): Rebeka Stavuse Oran Walton

4433

Title: To investigate the force of a scrum Overview: We are going to investigate the force of a scrum by conducting an experiment using forcemeters to measure it.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Finbarr Buckley Student(s): Sam Golden Michael Archer Harry Hall

4434

Title: An investigation into the effects of contaminants on the ecology of Bantry Inner Harbour Overview: A comparative ecological study of Bantry Inner Harbour to establish if one habitat has been affected by the presence of mercury and tributyltin.

School: Coláiste Pobal Bheanntrai County: Cork Teacher: Ms Sharon Kingston Student(s): Eve Murphy Lucy Coakley

4435

Title: Do coastal barn owls have the same diet as midland barn owls?

Overview: We want to analyse barn owl pellets from two contrasting locations: the midlands and the coast.

We have collected pellets from around the country and will dissect them.

School: Loreto Abbey Secondary School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Heather Merrick Student(s): Aisling Round Saoirse O’Donnell Katie Aylward

4436

Title: Craobh ghinealaigh de thréithe

feinitíopa Overview: Tá muid chun craobh ghinealaigh de tréithe feinitíopa a chruthú den ár dhá chlann ag baint úsáid as anailís ginealaigh.

School: Gaelcholáiste an Phiarsaigh County: Dublin Teacher: Miss Fionnuala Nic Giolla Bháin Student(s): Orlaith Ní Cheallaigh Niamh Ní Mhaonaigh

lengths were measured after five days of germination. Analysis of results indicated a strong lunar correlation.

School: Roscommon Community College County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Mary Concar Student(s): Orla Dillon Anita Silva Maria Lohan

4437

4503

Title: Grazing vs. zero-grazing Overview: We aim to investigate the difference in milk production when cows are grazed naturally compared to when the zero-grazing method is used.

School: Portumna Community School County: Galway Teacher: Mr. Paul Maguire Student(s): Billy Tuohy Naise Muldoon

4438

Title: Hip flexor muscle in active and sedentary 2nd level students Overview: We want to investigate whether there is a difference between the hip flexor muscle of active and sedentary, male and female, prepuberty and post-puberty students.

School: Coláiste Mhuire County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Valerie Bergin Student(s): Amy Dunphy Laura O’Sullivan

INTERMEDIATE GROUP 4500

Title: Functional movement training in young GAA players Overview: Our objective is test the functional movement of a group of young GAA players and develop a training programme to improve their functional movement.

School: Meánscoil na mBráithre Criostaí County: Kilkenny Teacher: Ms Lisa Cosgrove Student(s): Conor Cantwell Conor Flynn

4504

Title: To investigate the morphological variation in the shell of Nucella lapillus at exposed and sheltered shores in Ireland Overview: We are investigating the shell Nucella lapillus (dog whelk) to see if any differences exist in their shells between a sheltered and exposed shore.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Leeane Kelly Student(s): Sara Flatley Lauren Moloney

Title: A glove designed to assist healing of burns and abrasions on toddlers hands Overview: Our idea is a glove designed for toddlers. It will act like a sterile gauze, with Aloe Vera inside to cure burns, cuts and blisters.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery Student(s): Jack O’Connor Cillian McMahon Conor Riedy

4505

4501

Title: Cad iad na factóirí atá ag baint le creimeadh ithreach ar shléibhte?

Overview: Táimid ag tomhais factóirí difriúla ar sléibhte chun cúiseanna creimeadh ithreach a aithint in OirDheisceart na hÉirinn.

School: Coláiste Pobal Osraí - Kilkenny County: Kilkenny Teacher: Dr. Lughaidh Ó Néill Student(s): Órla Ní hÓgáin Liza Ní Urthuile Anna Ní Dhubhghaill

Title: The concentration of galantamine in daffodil bulbs relevant to the treatment of Alzheimer’s Overview: We aim to investigate the concentration levels of galantamine in daffodil bulbs. We will then see if Irish bulbs have a commercial level of galantamine.

School: Coláiste Muire - Crosshaven County: Cork Teacher: Ms Sarah Downey-fogarty Student(s): Kate Tolan Amy O’Reilly

4502

4507

Title: An investigation into the effect of the lunar cycle on radicle and plumule growth rates Overview: Seeds were sown according to lunar phases. Plumules and radicle

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Title: Cruthú scala chun an méid SO2 san aer a thomhas.

Overview: Scála bailíochtaithe nua-cumtha le tiúchán SO2 san aer a thomhas ag baint úsáid as póir léicean ar aolchloch mar bith-tháscaire.

School: Coláiste Pobal Osraí - Kilkenny County: Kilkenny Teacher: Dr. Lughaidh Ó Néill Student(s): Sara Ní Bhrolcháin Rachel Ní Dhorchaide

4506

Title: Investigating an enzyme inhibitor in red kidney beans Overview: We are investigating the presence of an enzyme inhibitor in red kidney beans and its effect on human

www.btyoungscientist.com 39

Biological & Ecological Sciences proteases and its help on strict protein diets School: Sutton Park School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Catherine Tattersall Student(s): Sophie Hunter Anna Colwell

4508

Title: An t-am is fearr chun leictrilítí a athshlánú Overview: Nuair a cuireann muid allais cailleann muid na leictrilití seo.Tá muid ag iarradh fáil amach an b’fhearr leictrilití a ghlacadh roimh nó tar éis aclaíocht.

School: Coláiste Ailigh County: Donegal Teacher: Mr Micheál Ó Giobúin Student(s): Niall Hannigan Ruairi ó Laifeartaigh

4509

Title: An investigation into the effectiveness of scrum caps at preventing concussions when playing rugby Overview: Our project will investigate whether scrum caps have any effect on the prevention of concussions. We will also investigate whether they can be improved.

School: C.B.S. Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Louise Gallagher Student(s): Jamie Quigley Theo McGuinness Dan Butt

4510

Title: An investigation into the effect of LED’s on plant growth Overview: Our project aims to design and create an LED plant propagator to improve and develop plant growth compared to traditional propagation methods.

School: Clonakilty Community College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Patrick O Keeffe Student(s): Robbie Matthews Tom O’ Donovan James Hayes

4511

Title: Investigating and comparing the pollution levels of the three main lakes of the River Shannon Overview: We are investigating and comparing the levels of pollution in Lough Allen, Lough Ree and Lough Derg, which are all lakes on Ireland’s longest river.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Eimear Collier Róisín Curley

4512

Title: An investigation into the use of Mycosinate in water purification and milk preservation

Overview: We will investigate if the antimicrobial agent Mycosinate could be used to: (i) keep raw milk fresh, and (ii) decontaminate unpurified water for drinking purposes.

School: Magh Ene College County: Donegal Teacher: Ms Yvonne Higgins Student(s): Rebecca Duffy Megan McGee Martha Cosgrove

4513

Title: How often do bacteria cause mastitis in milking cows?

Overview: We wanted to find out if all milking cows with a high somatic cell count have bacteria known to cause mastitis in their milk.

School: Kilrush Community School County: Clare Teacher: Ms Eileen McMahon Student(s): Róisín O’Connell Éanna Cunningham

4514

Title: To investigate the change in composition of water, before and after it enters a reed bed, and to construct our own reed bed Overview: To investigate the change in composition of water, before and after it enters a reed bed, and to construct our own reed bed.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Blarney County: Cork Teacher: Ms Elaine Keane Student(s): Aoife O Farrell Chloe Kidney

4515

Title: An investigation into the effect of ocean acidification on mussel byssal threads Overview: Will a change in ocean pH affect the growth and strength of a mussel’s byssal threads in our local Balbriggan area?

School: Loreto Secondary School Balbriggan County: Dublin Teacher: Dr. Niamh Mc Nally Student(s): Tess O’Neill Laura Cody

4516

Title: How do storage conditions affect acrylamide levels in potatoes once cooked?

Overview: We wish to investigate how storage conditions within the home affect the acrylamide levels in potatoes once they are cooked at a high temperature.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Mr Kevin Buckley Student(s): Breege O’Dwyer Chantelle Cunningham

4517

Title: To reduce the amount of algal

40 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

blooms by reducing phosphates and nitrates in fresh water, using duckweed to treat water Overview: We aim to reduce the occurrence of eutrophication caused by algal blooms using duckweed, allowing more organisms to be present in the water.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Julie Gleeson Student(s): Tara Lynch Clare Cronin Ciara Power

4518

Title: What’s under your wheels? Roadkill on the L2494, N28 and R613 in November 2014 Overview: The main aim of our project is to investigate the rates of roadkill on three roads and the animals most affected by it School: Carrigaline Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Jennifer Godsell Student(s): Orlaith Hickey Rebecca Allenby Caoimhe Coghlan

4519

Title: The Gearagh, 30 years on: A study on one of Ireland’s rarest habitats Overview: A study on the Gearagh - a post glacial alluvial forest formed at the end of the last Ice Age, located outside Macroom, Co. Cork.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Lorraine Marron Student(s): Alison Clarke Julia Köster Caitriona O’ Driscoll

4520

Title: Birdsong and music: Connections between African and Irish music and development of a new music genre based on the Galapagos Island’s birdsong Overview: Our project investigates connections between African and Irish music through Fourier transform.

It also works on creating new music through birdsongs from Galapagos Islands.

School: Carrick-On-Shannon Community School County: Leitrim Teacher: Mrs Jacqueline Walsh Student(s): Patrick Sweeney Chloe Daniels Annette Moran

4521

Title: To investigate the presence of pesticide residue on apples, analyse the concentration of pesticide from the skin to the core, and develop a safe means of removing the pesticide Overview: We will investigate the presence of chemicals on apples, the possible effects they have on humans and we will work on developing a safe

way to remove the chemicals.

School: John The Baptist Community School County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Michelle Buckley Student(s): Caoimhe O’Brien Gráinne Condon Gráinne Ryan

4522

Title: Animal magnetism: Do large mammals align themselves with the earth’s magnetic field?

Overview: Do large animals align themselves with the earth’s magnetic field, and if so, why?

School: Coláiste Phádraig - Lucan County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Jacqueline Farrell Student(s): John Regan Eibhin Kavanagh Jamie Leonard

4523

Title: An investigation into the theory of the differential in the human colour spectrum Overview: We will investigate how people perceive colours differently.

School: Avondale Community College County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Aoife Sullivan Student(s): Daniel Kavanagh Shaun Roche Josh Traynor

4524

Title: An investigation into the nutritional factors of a hen’s diet and how it affects the quality of their eggshells Overview: By varying the diet of our two different subject groups we will compare the quality of the eggshells produced.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Catherine Geoghegan Kellie Staunton

4525

Title: To investigate two primary factors contributing to cruciate ligament damage amongst GAA players - the footwear and the ground conditions Overview: We are going to survey 70 GAA players who have damaged their C.L. and analyse the trend in relation to the footwear and ground condition.

School: Patrician Academy County: Cork Teacher: Miss Orla Dineen Student(s): Diarmuid O’ Sullivan Paul O’Sullivan Colin Kelly

4526

Title: An investigation into (a) symmetry of sycamore tree, Acer pseudoplatanus, “helicopter” seeds and its effect on dispersal distances Overview: An investigation into the

correlation between the degree of symmetry of sycamore tree seeds and the distance they travel from the parent plant.

School: St Vincent’s Secondary School County: Louth Teacher: Mr John White Student(s): Ciara McLoughlin Aoife O’Malley Aoife McLoughlin

4527

Title: An investigation into the effect of red coloured light emitting diodes(LEDs) on plant development Overview: Our project aims to discover if coloured light emitting diodes significantly affect chlorophyll concentration, stimulating plant growth and development.

School: St. Macartan’s College County: Monaghan Teacher: Mr Hugh Moyna Student(s): Oisín Lavelle Darragh Todd

4528

Title: Are P.E. classes different in single sex and mixed sex schools?

Overview: Our project investigates the differing amounts of exercise that take place during P.E. classes in single sex and mixed sex schools.

School: C.B.S. Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Louise Gallagher Student(s): Mantas Trapulionis Lee Donoghue Ben Cummins

4529

Title: The effect a gluten-free diet has on perspiration in sport Overview: Our project aims to find out whether or not having a gluten-free diet will affect your perspiration levels in sport.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Rachel Fitzmaurice Caoimhe Gaughan

4530

Title: To test the economics of using trace element bolus on finishing beef cattle at grass Overview: We want to see if treated cattle come to slaughter weight earlier and if they gain more carcass weight than our control group.

School: Midleton College County: Cork Teacher: Mr Paudie Scanlon Student(s): Julie Ryall Maeve Kingston Amy Chambers

4531

Title: Formulating sustainable diets for producers in Ireland and Uganda Overview: The aim of our project is to create sustainable diets sourced from local enterprises that can be be used by families in Ireland and Uganda School: Cistercian College

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County: Tipperary Teacher: Mr Jim McManus Student(s): Brian Cullinan Edward Moore

4532

Student(s): Megan Ring Wiktoria Maslach Daniel O’Callaghan

4537

Title: School chairs damaging and affecting youths’ backs Overview: We want to investigate the problems caused by bad posture and the impact of school chairs on young student’s backs.

School: Causeway Comprehensive School County: Kerry Teacher: Mrs Jennifer Barry Student(s): Eilish Harrington Róisín Stack Megan Casey Lawlor

Title: The gliding ability of butterflies based on the shape and angle of their wings Overview: We are investigating how the shape of specific species of butterflies’ wings and the angle they are at affects their ability to glide for longer distances.

School: Blackwater Community School County: Waterford Teacher: Ms. Mary Jane Maher Student(s): Ellen Meaney Emma Dwyer Maud Farrow

4533

4538

Title: Is the native Irish Arbutus unedo L. phylogenetically different to a mainland European Arbutus unedo L. Overview: We will compare the evolutionary genome of the native irish arbutus unedo L. to that of the mainland european arbutus unedo L. through chloroplast sequencing and analysis.

School: St. Macartan’s College County: Monaghan Teacher: Mr Hugh Moyna Student(s): Louis Madden Ultan O’Rourke

4534

Title: To investigate the growing threat from swarms of jellyfish around the Irish coast Overview: This project will investigate the threat from swarms of jellyfish that are having a harmful effect on tourism, aquaculture and fisheries as their numbers expand.

School: St Louis High School County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Mairead O Brien Student(s): Marion Castro Martha Malone

4535

Title: Do cheap sunglasses really protect your eyes against UVA,UVB and HEV? Overview: To investigate whether or not brand reputation, tint and cost of sunglasses affect the overall performance in blocking out harmful UV rays and protecting the eyes.

School: St Vincent’s Secondary School County: Louth Teacher: Mr John White Student(s): Amy McArdle Caoimhe Mc Evoy Warr Ciara Babington

4536

Title: Wild Wednesday - What has Darwin taught us about trees?

Overview: The Millstreet area was badly affected by storm Darwin. We are examining what trees fell, why they fell and what happened next.

School: Millstreet Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shane Guerin

Title: Effects of pyramidology on plant growth Overview: We aim to see if the pyramid has any effect on plant growth, and if so, which type is best in comparison to other shapes.

School: Loreto College - Cavan County: Cavan Teacher: Ms Michelle Rogan Student(s): Beth Carolan Lauren Cooley

4539

Title: Differences in muscle imbalances in certain sports and how this leads to injury Overview: Our project aims to determine how muscle imbalances lead to injury in certain sports. We will help prevent injuries by developing information packs for coaches.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Dr Edward Gash Student(s): Alex Eames Jan Donnelly Conor Robinson

4540

Title: An investigation into the correlation between ingestion of spicy ethnic food and subsequent cooling effect on core and peripheral body temperature Overview: We aim to observe the change in core and peripheral temperatures after consumption of spicy food. Students sample a dish with spice added gradually and temperatures are recorded.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Mr Padraig Harlow Student(s): Katie Lavin Laoise Fitzpatrick Grainne Whyte

4541

Title: An investigation into the variety of rare and threatened birds inhabiting Roscommon bogs during winter Overview: Our project aims to investigate the various species of rare and threatened birds which inhabit Roscommon bogs during winter.

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School: C.B.S. Roscommon County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Louise Gallagher Student(s): Jack Harkins Eoghan Grady

4542

Title: The effect that earthworms have on the level of nitrates and phosphates found in various mineralised soils Overview: We are investigating how earthworms increase or decrease the phosphates and nitrates in varying mineral content soils.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Ms Julie Gleeson Student(s): Aela O’Toole Siún Ní Mhuimhneacháín

4543

Title: Development of small-scale wormeries for use in apartments Overview: To investigate whether it is possible to have a small scale wormery in an apartment. We want to see the easiest and fastest way to decompose food.

School: St Aloysius College County: Cork Teacher: Ms Aine Hyland Student(s): Sorcha Phelan Olivia Roche Sarah Reardon

4544

Title: The impact soil pH has on the colour of hydrangeas Overview: Our project aims to investigate pH levels of soils surrounding hydrangea flowers and determine how to manipulate the soil pH to create newly coloured flowers.

School: Coláiste Choilm County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Karina Lyne Student(s): Clodagh Fitton Aisling Murphy

4545

Title: An investigation of left/right hearing perception based on empirical findings and brain stimulation tests Overview: To establish whether or not the right and left ears hear sounds and notes differently and to see if this has any knock-on effects.

School: Scoil Mhuire gan Smál Blarney County: Cork Teacher: Mr Sean Foley Student(s): Jennifer Murray Ciara O’Connell

4546

Title: Baby formula: Hot or not?

Overview: To investigate the levels of vitamin C and the ideal temperature for cooling in different methods of making baby formula.

School: Tullamore College County: Offaly Teacher: Ms Noreen Flynn Student(s): Ciannait Goulding Emily Deverell Katie Rabbitte

www.btyoungscientist.com 41

Biological & Ecological Sciences 4547

Title: The development of a risk model to determine the expansion and potential environmental impact of Asian clams in lower Lough Ree Overview: We will carry out a qualitative and quantitative survey in multiple sites to determine the expansion and potential environmental impact of Asian clams in lower Lough Ree. School: Lanesboro Community College County: Longford Teacher: Mr Michael Lyons Student(s): Conor Walton Jeffrey Kok Chloe Kenny

4548

4552

Title: An exploration into the effects of slurry usage on the earthworm population, and hence on the soil health of Irish farms Overview: To examine whether the widespread use of slurry on Irish farms impacts negatively on worm population and soil profiles, leading to increased flooding and poorer soil.

School: Presentation Secondary School - Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Emma Kavanagh Student(s): Bronagh Morrissey Lucy Kennedy Flavia Alverez

Title: The benefits of biomass heating in poultry houses vs. using gas heating Overview: Can we produce better chickens more economically by using biomass? We discuss what the risks and benefits of using poultry litter as a fuel are.

School: Bandon Grammar School County: Cork Teacher: Mrs Carena McCarthy Student(s): Harry Sweetnam Kevin Deane

4553

4549

4554

Title: An investigation into the potential usage of Fucus vesiculosus and Fucus serratus as a raw material for thermal energy production Overview: To investigate the potential of North Clare seaweeds Fucus vesiculosus and Fucus serratas as biomass for energy production based on their calorific value, as determined by bomb calorimetry.

School: Scoil Mhuire County: Clare Teacher: Ms Sue-Ann Sheridan Student(s): Aoibhe Cronin Ciara McInerney

Title: Fast food or home food Overview: The differences in the digestion of fast food compared to homemade food, considering the time of digestion and the amount of waste produced.

School: Coláiste Bhríde County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Miriam Rickerby Student(s): Krystian Jakobczak Adam Rochford

4558

Title: Seed to feed in 7 days Overview: To study the nutritional value of conventional feeds against sprouted feeds and the effect that this has on animal growth, and the cost effectiveness of same.

School: Colaiste Dun Iascaigh County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms. Stephanie Hassett Student(s): Shauna Burke Gerard Walshe Brian O’Connor

4559

Title: Eye can fingerprint your history Overview: Our project is based on human DNA and fingerprints. We will carry out experiments involving fingerprint patterns and ancestry tracing.

School: St Farnan’s Post Primary School County: Kildare Teacher: Mr Andrew Little Student(s): Courtney Percival Ellie Casey Lauren McCarthy

4555

4560

Title: A greener tee Overview: A biodegradable golf tee, possibly made of seaweed, that will biodegrade in a short period of time and supply nutrients to the soil.

School: Castleknock College County: Dublin Teacher: Mr Kieran Gallagher Student(s): Jake Killeen Ben Healy

4551

4556

Title: An examination of sensory stimulation of rhythm and sound on the behaviour of horses by the measurement of heart rate Overview: Our project aims to find a list of music stimuli that help horses relax in an unnatural environment, so that people can handle them with ease.

School: Portumna Community School County: Galway Teacher: Ms Niamh Barry Student(s): Shauna McEvoy Clodagh McDonagh

Title: Can the odour from herbal extracts act as a natural repellent to food bin flies?

Overview: Evaluation of the ability of natural extracts to repel flies from food bins. Application of trace rosemary extract results in a 50% reduction in flies.

School: Loreto College - Foxrock County: Dublin Teacher: Ms. Helen Hennessy Student(s): Erica Dowling Alison Nolan

Title: An investigation into the use of nettles to recover phosphate from waste water Overview: To investigate a treatment process for the removal of phosphorus from waste water sources that otherwise could result in eutrophication in receiving waters.

School: St Colman’s College County: Down Teacher: Miss Pauline Chambers Student(s): Jamie Brannigan Adam Connolly Adam Toner

Title: Can small amounts of hydrogen peroxide and gluconic acid make milk last longer?

Overview: We aim to see if we can slow the rate of bacteria growth in milk by using small amounts of hydrogen peroxide and gluconic acid.

School: Coláiste Na Toirbhirte County: Cork Teacher: Mr Pat O Leary Student(s): Orla Coffey Sorcha O’Donnell Leaghanorah Carroll

4550

4557

Title: The physiological demands of swimming: An investigation into whether our training makes the grade.

Overview: Our project aims to analyse our swimming training using scientific tests to determine whether our training is optimal.

School: Loreto Secondary School Kilkenny County: Kilkenny Teacher: Dr Michele Morris Student(s): Thea Harte Eimear Moore Caoimhe Ryan

42 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

Title: Artificial vs. natural: An investigation into the impact of artificial turf pitches on athletes’ muscles and joints Overview: We aim to investigate how artificial turf pitches impact athletes’ muscles and joints compared to natural grass, and the advantages and disadvantages of both pitches.

School: Jesus & Mary Secondary School County: Sligo Teacher: Mr Luke Saunders Student(s): Eamonn Kilgannon Sean Carrabine Orlagh O’Dowd

4561

Title: Does oestrus cycle affect meat quality in heifers?

Overview: We will investigate if the meat from heifers that are slaughtered while in oestrus is of poorer quality than that of heifers that are not.

School: St Mary’s Secondary School Mallow County: Cork Teacher: Ms Emer Hallihan Student(s): Aoife Browne Cait O’Mahony

4562

Title: Infinity log trainer Overview: Our project’s aim is to design an efficient training timetable to prevent young sportspeople from suffering burnout.

School: C.B.S. Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Mr Brendan Hogan Student(s): Seán Ryan William Creedon Darragh Byrne

4563

Title: To investigate whether a protein rich diet could increase the mass and size of chicken eggs Overview: Our aim is to determine whether or not the introduction of more protein into the diet of chickens would result in larger and heavier eggs.

School: Portumna Community School County: Galway Teacher: Ms Marie Nagle Student(s): Anita Conroy Evelyn Kennedy Helena Horrigan

4564

Title: Encouraging horses to eat by adding various flavours to their feed Overview: We will add a flavour to horse feed to encourage the horse to eat the feed.

School: Loreto College - St Stephens Green County: Dublin Teacher: Ms Yseult Whitaker Student(s): Kate Madden Annie Madden

4565

Title: To what extent is the vegetation in Fenor Bog changing? Why, and what are the implications?

Overview: Investigating the changes in vegetation in Fenor Bog, including the various reasons/causes for these changes and making recommendations as to how to stop these changes.

School: Gael Choláist Phort Láirge County: Waterford Teacher: Mr Seán Ó Catháin Student(s): Aodan Fullam Conall de Paor

4566

Title: To compare the cancerous effects of e-cigarettes to normal cigarettes and observe how they affect cancer cell growth Overview: Our project’s aim is to compare the liquid from e-cigarette cartridges that contain nicotine to normal cigarettes and see how they affect cancer cell growth.

School: Presentation Secondary School - Thurles County: Tipperary Teacher: Ms Emma Kavanagh Student(s): Michelle Ryan Caoimhe Lanigan

4567

Title: An apple a day: An analysis of the effect of maturity level on malic

acid, Brix and starch levels in various varieties of apple Overview: The effects of maturity on malic acid, Brix and starch levels in various varieties of apple and the benefits of daily consumption on stamina and energy.

School: O Fiaich College County: Louth Teacher: Mr Kenneth Rea Student(s): Laura McGahon Molly McShane

4568

potatoes Overview: Our project is an investigation into how different storage conditions, e.g. room temperature, light or dark, affect the colour of the potato.

School: Scoil Mhuire Strokestown County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Modwena Geoghegan Student(s): Rachel Feely Aisling Reynolds

4603

Title: Using seaweed as a biomonitor for measuring pollution in sea water Overview: To determine if seaweed is a good biomonitor for pollution in sea water. We also want to investigate if one colour of seaweed is a better biomonitor.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Ciara Manning Molly Dunican

Title: An investigation into the antimicrobial activity of selected Irish seaweeds Overview: We will examine the antimicrobial activity of selected Irish seaweeds against common GRAS bacteria.

School: Kinsale Community School County: Cork Teacher: Mr Shaun Holly Student(s): Sadhbh O’ Hanrahan Ali Hill Ciara Walsh

4569

4604

Title: How effective are lettuce/raddish seeds as an indicator of toxicity in agricultural land?

Overview: To see how effective lettuce/raddish seeds are as a bioassay.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Cian Ryan Leon Murphy David Kelly

SENIOR GROUP 4600

Title: Sphagnum peat moss as an alternative to commercial flower foods Overview: To find an organic everyday and longer lasting alternative to a standard packet of flower food for fresh cut flowers.

School: Mullingar Community College County: Westmeath Teacher: Ms Leanne Moore Student(s): Aoife Woods Amy Allard Eve Ryan

4601

Title: A statistical investigation into the treatment of the Verroa Mite and its effect on the native Irish Apis Mellifera Melliferra (AMM) Overview: A statistical investigation into the treatment of the Verroa Mite and its effect on the native Irish Apis Mellifera Melliferra (AMM) School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Ms Aoife Culhane Student(s): Terri Keane Julie Cantillon Kiara Carroll

4602

Title: An investigation into the effects of storage conditions on the colour of

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Title: Ecological study of the canals in Galway Overview: We conducted this study to determine the level of pollution in local canals in Galway through chemical and biological testing.

School: St Joseph’s College - Galway County: Galway Teacher: Dr Neil Spellacy Student(s): Dawood Mahmood Ahmed Kamal

4605

Title: An investigation into calving and colostrum management practices on Irish dairy farms that may compromise neonatal calf health Overview: This project investigates calving and colostrum practices on Irish dairy farms. It aims to identify practices that may contribute to calf mortality in early neonatal care.

School: Desmond College - Limerick County: Limerick Teacher: Miss Marie Corkery Student(s): Chris Scannell Padraig Collins

4606

Title: The effect of core stability exercise on dynamic balance in 12-18 year old basketball players Overview: To establish if a pre-set core stability exercise programme has any effect on core stability.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Rebecca Campbell Alekandra Kwiatkowska

4607

Title: Investigating bird feeding habits in an enriched woodland.

Overview: Monitoring bird feeding habits and preferences and introducing new food sources to

encourage different species to nest in the woodland and guiding future management strategies.

School: South Eastern Regional College - Bangor Campus County: Down Teacher: Mr Jonathan Cash Student(s): Ashleigh Brimacombe Ashleigh Reid

4608

Title: Má imríonn tú? Íocann tú!

Overview: An aidhm atá againn ná an éifeacht atá ag gortaithe don corp a scrúdú agus le féicéal an bhfuil bealach cosc a chur leo seo.

School: Colaiste Cholmcille County: Galway Teacher: Ms Anna Ní Fhlatharta Student(s): Aoife Gibbons Caoimhe Ní Choisdealbha Aoife Nic Ghiolla Choinnigh

4609

Title: A study of the air pollution of Cork city and the surrounding region using leaf yeast (S.Roseus) as a biological indicator Overview: We propose to do a study of air pollution in Cork and the surrounding regions using the growth of leaf yeast as a biological indicator.

School: Presentation College County: Cork Teacher: Dr Lynda Meiklejohn Student(s): John Fehilly Louis Roberts

4610

Title: Which cattle breed has the lowest carbon ‘hoof’print?

Overview: An investigation into whether or not Aberdeen Angus has a lower carbon footprint (hoofprint) than continental breeds e.g. Charolais, Limousin and Simmental, and the consumer and farmer’s reaction to this.

School: Coláiste Bhríde County: Wicklow Teacher: Ms Miriam Rickerby Student(s): Padraig Doyle Una Sinnott Tommy McGing

4611

Title: A further investigation into the anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties of North Clare seaweed extracts Overview: Screening extracts of Fucus vesiculosis and Fucus serratus for anti-bacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes, Salmonella enterica and Staphylococcus epidermidis, and secondly for antioxidant activity.

School: Scoil Mhuire County: Clare Teacher: Ms Sue-Ann Sheridan Student(s): Emma Greene Aideen Bonito Rachel Hehir

in commercial premises and developing a method of sanitation Overview: We are investigating the presence of microorganisms on the rind of lemons that are found in restaurants and bars and devising a process of eradication.

School: New-Bridge Integrated College County: Down Teacher: Mrs Dara Morgan Student(s): Maria McAnearney Rachel Kitchen Fiona McIlroy

4613

Title: The effect of stress on the antioxidant levels in red lettuce Overview: We want to see if applying stress to red lettuce will increase its antioxidant levels, which is proven to help cure chronic diseases such as cancer.

School: Magh Ene College County: Donegal Teacher: Ms Yvonne Higgins Student(s): Isabella Pawlowski Emer McGurran Darragh Elliott

4614

Title: To study the effects of habitat cultivations on the decreasing bumblebee population Overview: We are studying the effects of habitat cultivations on the decrease in bumblebee population by observing three different habitats in our local area.

School: Scoil Mhuire Strokestown County: Roscommon Teacher: Ms Modwena Geoghegan Student(s): Rachel Flannagan Roisin Mc Caffrey Aisling McCarthy

4615

Title: The occurrence of hypothermia in springboard divers Overview: To determine whether springboard divers suffer from hypothermia during a training session.

School: Kildare Town Community School County: Kildare Teacher: Ms Sinead Sheils Student(s): Evaline Schepers Jordan Kaye Kim Foran

4616

Title: Testing the antibacterial properties of woodland flora Overview: This study will investigate the antibacterial effects of a range of indigenous flora.

School: South Eastern Regional College - Bangor Campus County: Down Teacher: Mr Jonathan Cash Student(s): Michael Spurway Hayley Donaldson Danielle Craig

4612

Title: Investigating the presence of microorganisms on the rind of lemons

@btyste

www.btyoungscientist.com 43

THE RONEY & JOE SCIENCE SHOW Roney and Joe are not only two of the brightest young Irish scientists in the fields of astrophysics and chemistry... they are also best friends.

They are being unleashed from their labs in Trinity College so that they can bring the Science Gallery Dublin live show experience to the RDS stage. This explosive, messy show will demonstrate just what it means to be a scientist. Using cutting-edge demonstrations and an explosive flair for the unexpected, they will take you on an interactive journey from the formation of the universe to the formation of friendships.

About Science Gallery Science Gallery is a world first. A new type of venue where today’s white-hot scientific issues are thrashed out and you can have your say. A place where ideas meet and opinions collide.

Since opening in 2008, over 1.7 million of you have visited us in Dublin - ranking us amongst the top ten free cultural attractions in Ireland. We’re all about opening science up to passionate debate and want your opinion.

in association with

REUBEN FROM RTÉjr

SATURDAY ONLY @ 11.15

Reuben is a magician, street-performer, comedian, mime artist and all round entertainer, guaranteed to keep audiences of all ages laughing throughout his entertaining live performance.

You can catch Reuben everyday in a whole variety of shows on RTÉjr including ‘Reuben Bó & Co’ and ‘Neverbored’, in which Reuben comes to the rescue of bored children and shows them how to entertain themselves playing fun games.

You can also catch him and Bó the cow every weekday in the RTÉjr Post Room where they check out all the viewers’ artwork - and wish them Happy Birthday!

Reuben started out in RTÉ as the ‘warm up guy’ for young studio audiences. He now both writes and performs in front of the camera. Reuben has represented Ireland in the Montreal ‘Just For Laughs’ festival with his unique stand-up act for adults and has sold-out his own one-man show in Vicar Street, but his focus has always been on children’s entertainment.

Oozing funny ideas for all ages to enjoy, come join Reuben on the main stage!

RTÉjr is Ireland’s dedicated children’s service bringing original entertaining and educational content to the under-7s in a commercial-free environment. RTÉjr TV channel is available on Saorview Channel 7, Sky Channel 624 and UPC Channel 600 and RTÉjr radio is available on DAB. Find out more via rte.ie/rtejr and follow @RTEjr

44 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

ST E LL A R A DV E NT URES Beginning aboard the International Space Station, we will view our Spaceship Earth from a vantage point of 430km above our home in space and hear of how we use this unique vantage point and technological stepping stone to the stars to monitor and care for our fragile blue planet.

Audiences will then be taken on an impossible journey back through a wormhole to the beginning of time itself, to witness the dramatic birth of the universe, stars and formation of the Solar System.

Through live narration and stunning 3D, you will learn how we all use space every day to communicate and navigate our way and how space has transformed society forever for the betterment of all mankind.

Finally, we will try to answer the question, ‘How big is the universe?’. We will travel through space and time to see just how big the universe really is.

Come and join us for this incredible 3D journey through the cosmos!

Image Credits: Orion Nebula - NASA, ESA, M. Robberto (Space Telescope Science Institute/ESA) and the Hubble Space Telescope Orion Treasury Project Team, Mars - NASA/ESA and The Hubble Heritage Team STScI/AURA, Jupiter - NASA, ESA, Michael Wong (Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD), H. B. Hammel (Space Science Institute, Boulder, CO) and the Jupiter Impact Team

Facebook.com/BTYSTE

@btyste

www.btyoungscientist.com 45

Making his annual appearance at the Exhibition this year due to incredible demand. A show to entertain both young and old alike - Titan is transported around the Arena on a docking station driven by Dave the Man in Black.

After some adjustments to the controls, Dave the Man in Black ‘fires up’ the equipment and brings Titan to life - much to the shock of the audience around! This performance is not to be missed. Seeing is believing!

Titan has appeared in many European countries including Ireland, Spain, France, Czech Republic, Belgium, Sweden and Germany. Titan has also appeared across the globe including performances in China, Hong Kong, USA, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Doha.

LIGHT FANTASTIC SHOW

W5 are back for BTYSTE 2015 and are exploring your universe on the main stage with science at the speed of light!

From infrared to ultra-violet, the visible spectrum will have nowhere to hide from our watchful eyes. Celebrate the start of UNESCO’s International Year of Light with this truly enlightening experience.

W5 will also provide opportunities for you to get hands-on with science. Pit yourself against physical challenges, wrap your head around mental puzzles or just try out some fun activities as YOU do the science at the W5 stand.

46 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

WORLD OF ROBOTS The World of Robots is the biggest open robotics contest in Ireland. Presented by the Irish robotics company, Mechatrons, there are over 20 different competitive categories that anyone can enter.

All you need is a robot built to meet the specifications of your chosen challenge. Competitors come from all walks of life; individuals, engineers, schools and universities all battling it out.

Challenges include maze solving, sumo, artbots, robocup (soccer), boxing, wrestling, micromouse, rope climbing and heavyweight robot battles to name just a few.

Robot battling is a true sport of the future. It has all the right elements: mad science, gladiatorial combat, plucky garage inventors, and hi-tech machinery. Brutally effective, utterly vicious machines have now evolved from one based on an

engineering challenge, to that of hi-tech operational challenge with space age materials.

The mechanical evil that is the combat robot consists of robots using arms and blades and blunt objects to bash and slash and break each other apart. One type of combat robot, the Wedge Bots now have enormous power that they can put into one simple, cunning attack: slide a wedge under another robot, flip all of its 100kgs over 2m into the air, and watch it flail about like a dying cockroach or smash its belly with 14 tons of axe power.

It’s not just contests at the World of Robots though. There are robotic displays of famous robots such as R2-D2, Daleks and Skeletron. There is even a robotic Creeper from Minecraft!

Want to build your own to enter next year? Start your robot building career by talking to the Roboteers and finding out how to get started or visit www.mechatrons.com.

Robots are the future and the future is now.

It’s time you were part of it.

2014 WINNERS

in association with

Facebook.com/BTYSTE

@btyste

www.btyoungscientist.com 47

The RDS Primary Science Fair is part of the RDS Foundation’s Science programme which aims to encourage the development of science and mathematical skills in primary school aged children by fostering education innovation. Further details are available at www.rds.ie/science

Are you looking for a unique way to get your class excited about science?

The RDS Primary Science Fair is an opportunity for primary schools to exhibit a class project on one day of the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition.

2016 dates: Thursday, January 7 to Saturday, January 9 Open to 4th, 5th, 6th class and Key Stage 2 To add your school to our mailing list, and make sure you receive all important updates, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Email: primarysciencefair@rds.ie Web: www.rds.ie/primarysciencefair Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheRDS Facebook: www.facebook.com/RDSdublin Call: 01 240 7990

Did you know that primary schools from all over the country are given an opportunity to exhibit a class project at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition? The RDS Primary Science Fair provides an exciting opportunity for approximately 3,000 primary school students to investigate a question or problem and receive feedback from experts in the field.

The RDS Primary Science Fair is not a competition, the emphasis of participation is on the development of children’s core scientific skills by working as a class to question, observe, record and then make sense of what they find and to support teachers to develop their confidence and skills in teaching STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) using an inquiry-based approach. International studies have also demonstrated a direct link between primary school science engagement and later academic science achievement.

Projects this year include: ‘Do cows have blue eyes?’ and ‘Why don’t aeroplanes fall from the sky?’ and are on display in the Clyde Room. Come along and see what these very young scientists are exploring:

THURSDAY 8 JANUARY Exploring how environmental factors affect biodegradation: How long does it take for debris to break down?

Brierhill N.S., Ballybrit, Galway, County Galway Why was Knockma left behind after the Ice Age and how do extremes in climate effect our landscapes?

Corrandulla N.S., Corrandulla, County Galway What is the link between lung capacity & heart rate in relation to fitness?

Scoil Éanna, Bullaun, Loughrea, County Galway Which building design will best withstand an earthquake?

Scoil Iósaif Naofa, Oranmore, County Galway Blas. Cen fáth go nathrionn sé?

Scoil Na Maighdine Muire Gan Smál, Camus, County Galway What type of boat will carry the heaviest load?

Carrakennedy N.S., Liscarney, Westport, County Mayo What is the commonest colour in Irish wildflowers?

Killasser N.S., Killasser, Swinford, County Mayo Why are pipes round?

Holy Family B.N.S., Askea, Carlow, County Carlow Which building material is most resistant to corrosion by acid rain?

St Vincent de Paul Senior Girls’ School, Marino, Dublin 9 Are the hardest conkers produced naturally or can we influence their strength?

St Ultan’s N.S., Ballyfermot, Dublin 10

48 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

What is the most time and water efficient way to boil our frozen vegetables?

St Mochta’s N.S., Clonsilla, Dublin 15 Does age or sex influence your reflexes? Boys versus girls! Old versus young!

Our Lady of the Wayside N.S., Kilternan, Dublin 18 Ear ear! How do the ears work?

St Andrews N.S., Lucan, County Dublin Do dark materials absorb more heat? How can this be applied to everyday life?

Graignamanagh Boys’ N.S., Graignamanagh, Kilkenny, County Kilkenny Are our hands really clean?

Rushall N.S., Pike of Rushall, Portlaoise, County Laois Where do mini-beasts like to live?

Bunscoil Buachaillí Réalt na Mara, Donacarney, County Meath Senseless: No Nose, No Taste?

St Finian’s N.S., Killyon, Hill of Down, Enfield, County Meath Why do giraffes have such long necks?

St Brendans P.S., Moorpark, Birr, County Offaly How safe is our water?

St Francis’ Boys School, Clara, County Offaly How do bogs preserve bodies?

St Tola’s N.S., Killulagh, Delvin, County Westmeath

THURSDAY 8 JANUARY (CONTINUED) Which brand blows the best bubbles?

St Kevin’s N.S., Gorey, County Wexford What fruits contain the most sugar?

S.N. Phadraig Naofa, Avoca, County Wicklow How high to loop the loop?

Sacred Heart N.S., Aughrim, County Wicklow Do girls have better peripheral vision than boys and, if so, why?

St Joseph’s N.S., Glenealy, County Wicklow Acid Attack! Which drinks cause the most dental erosion?

St Laurence’s N.S., Kindlestown, Greystones, County Wicklow Can exercise improve your memory?

Baltydaniel N.S., Newtwopothouse, County Cork Do cows have blue eyes? If not, why not?

Darrara N.S., Cruary, Clonakilty, County Cork Why do we need to drink water?

Midleton Educate Together N.S., Midleton, County Cork What is the level of sugar in the drinks we consume and how does this affect us?

Ovens N.S., Ovens, County Cork Does the size of our head determine our intelligence?

Scoil Mhuire Lourdes, Carrigaline, County Cork Which method of planting makes crops grow bigger/ better Biodynamic planting or normal planting?

Scoil Naomh Fionan, Rennies, Nohoval, Belgooly, County Cork

How does friction affect travel?

St Enda’s N.S., Kilnadur, Dunmanway, County Cork What sea creatures inhabit the rocky shore of Kinsale and what adaptations help them survive?

Summercove N.S., Kinsale, County Cork Do car / motor emissions have an effect on the germination rate of plants?

Carrickerry N.S., Carrickerry, County Limerick How do different everyday liquids effect plant germination and growth?

Courtneay Boys N.S., Gortboy, Newcastle West, County Limerick How do the amounts of different gasses in the atmosphere effect the temperature of our planet?

Learning Hub Limerick, Thomondgate, County Limerick How and why do we forecast the weather?

St Patrick’s G.N.S., Dublin Road, Limerick City, County Limerick What impact has sugar on your fitness level?

Gaelscoil Aonach Urmhumhan, Gort Lán Rua, County Tipperary How can one best grow three times the number of plants in an small area?

St Brigid’s N.S., Donaskeigh, Curraghpoor, County Tipperary Sound: Does it really travel in waves?

St Joseph’s Primary School, Dungarvan, County Waterford

FRIDAY 9 JANUARY Does hens’ feed affect the taste of their eggs?

St Oliver Plunkett N.S., Kilkerrin, Ballinasloe, County Galway Is Lego an effective learning tool in a primary school?

Stokane, Enniscrone, Sligo, County Sligo Does age affect memory?

Scoil Naomh Peadar’s Pól, Ballon, County Carlow Which water is cleaner for us to swim in, the River Liffey or the Royal Canal?

St Laurence O’Tooles C.B.S., Seville Place, Dublin 1 Can solar panels (as a source of clean fuel) be used to power a vehicle?

Alexandra College Junior School, Milltown, Dublin 6 How does the process of Osmosis affect different foods?

Sutton Park School, Sutton, Dublin 13 Do we learn better from using our dominant style?

St Michael’s Special School, Chapelizod, Dublin 20 Is the penalty in hurling working?

Scoil San Treasa, Mount Merrion, County Dublin How do Lego Bionicle joints relate to human joints?

St Patrick’s S.N.S., Skerries, County Dublin What is the easiest, cheapest, and ‘best’ way to make new paper from used paper?

Maynooth Educate Together N.S., Maynooth, County Kildare Can alternative energy power a house?

Piper’s Hill Community N.S., Killashee, County Kildare What are the hiding habits of Helix Aspera (aka the garden snail)?

Primrose Hill N.S., Celbridge, County Kildare How effective is rice in absorbing moisture from damp footwear?

Scoil Naomh Mhuire, Staplestown, Naas, County Kildare Would you site a windmill in The Windy Gap? St Joseph’s N.S., Ballyadams, Athy, County Kildare Should clash of the ash be a thing of the past?

Scoil Mhuire Fatima, Timahoe, County Laois What mixture makes the best rocket fuel?

Le Chéile Educate Together N.S., Drogheda, County Louth

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Do all onions make us cry and what methods work best to alleviate this?

Scoil Naomh Barra, Wilkinstown, Navan, County Meath Who is better at reacting? Boys versus girls!

Ardnagrath N.S., Walderstown, Athlone, County Westmeath How clean are my gum-shields?

Scoil Phadraig Milltown, Rathconrath, County Westmeath Can we train our senses?

Bunscoil Loreto, Gorey, County Wexford How to identify birds visiting the school playground and what influences their feeding preferences?

Kilcommon N.S., Churchlands, Tinahely, County Wicklow Can we design and make a homemade Hawkeye goal-line technology system with Raspberry Pi? St Peter’s Primary, Bray, County Wicklow Is there more to our soil than dirt?

St Mochulla’s N.S., Tulla, County Clare Does 6 weeks of core training improve sporting performance in preteens?

Barryroe N.S., Lislevane, Bandon, County Cork How do different types of music affect how our brain works?

Killavullen N.S., Killavullen, Mallow, County Cork How can we harness the sun’s energy through the use of a solar panel?

Our Lady of Mercy N.S., Bantry, County Cork How does the birdlife change during the rising and falling tides at Glounthaune Inlet, Cork Harbour?

PALS Afterschool, Ballinglanna, Glanmire, County Cork How do wind turbines convert wind to electricity?

Scoil Bhríde, Midleton, County Cork Can we make our own drinking water from our local river?

St John the Baptist N.S., Midleton, County Cork What are the healing, cleaning and biodegradable properties of banana skins?

Firies N.S., Firies, Killarney, County Kerry

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www.btyoungscientist.com 49

FRIDAY 9 JANUARY (CONTINUED) What are the migratory birds that are found in Tralee Bay during the winter months?

Moyderwell Mercy Primary School, Tralee, County Kerry Which indigestion remedy is the most effective?

Ashford N.S., Ballagh, County Limerick What type of cup keeps a liquid hot the longest?

Killoughteen N.S., Newcastle West, County Limerick How effective is salt as a food preservative in comparison to refrigeration?

Scoil na Maighne, Moyne, Thurles, County Tipperary With multiple helium balloons, how much weight can be lifted and why?

Garranbane N.S., Garranbane, Dungarvan, County Waterford

How can we harness energy from the world around us?

St Andrew’s N.S., Malahide, County Donegal How can code be used to control electronic components?

St Patrick’s P.S., Derrygonnelly, County Fermanagh Can you design a bridge to support a high volume of traffic?

St Patrick’s Primary School, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh Which citric fruit has the most Vitamin C? Is it lemon, grapefruit, orange or lime?

Gaelscoil Eois, Cluain Eois, County Monaghan Is it possible to make a miniature funfair with working models and machines?

St Teresa’s P.S., Omagh, County Tyrone

SATURDAY 10 JANUARY Does the size of wheels on a cart determine the force needed to move it?

Carramore N.S., Carramore, Swinford, County Mayo The Dandelion: The great survivor pest or provider?

St John’s N.S., The Neale, Ballinrobe, County Mayo Can we trust our senses?

Belgrove Senior Boys, Clontarf, Dublin 3 How do earthquakes happen and why do volcanoes erupt in different ways?

St Columba’s N.S., North Strand, Dublin 3 What would the ideal design for a man-made orbiting settlement for space look like?

John Scottus N.S., Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 What is the most efficient form of renewable energy for our school wind or solar?

Star of the Sea B.N.S., Sandymount, Dublin 4 In a battle between Vikings, Normans and WW1 warships, which boat would stay afloat?

St Eithne’s G.N.S, Raheny, Dublin 5 Which hovercraft can go the furthest?

St Joseph’s B.N.S., Terenure, Dublin 6 Why don’t aeroplanes fall from the sky?

St Clare’s Primary School, Harolds Cross, Dublin 6W What is the breaking strength of a paper-maché bridge?

St Fintan’s N.S., Sutton, Dublin 13 Can we make a hovercraft that will carry a child?

St Kilian’s German School, Roebuck Road, Dublin 14 What methods and myths actually work to prevent ourselves crying while cutting up onions?

Balscadden N.S., Balscadden, Balbriggan, County Dublin Can body language help interpret the different languages, which children in our class speak natively at home?

Bracken Educate Together N.S., Balbriggan, County Dublin Can different food types help stick insects grow faster?

Castle Park School, Dalkey, County Dublin Does exercise have an effect on lung capacity?

Donabate Girls’ School, Donabate, County Dublin Is climate change a threat to our planet?

Kill o’ the Grange N.S., Deansgrange, County Dublin Do different liquids affect plant growth?

St Mary’s N.S., Garristown, County Dublin The five second rule: fact or fiction?

Newbridge Educate Together N.S., The Curragh, County Kildare Is Playdough Electric?

Scoil an Linbh Íosa, Prosperous, County Kildare What can the Rubik’s Cube teach us about mathematics and computing?

Scoil Bhride Milltown, Milltown, County Kildare

50 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

The battle of the bins: Do kids prefer a character-based or plain recycling bin?

St Bridgid’s Primary School, Kildare Town, County Kildare Can meditating, mindfulness and positive thinking help improve children’s performance both mentally and physically?

An Fraoch Mor, The Heath, Portlaoise, County Laois What factors influence floating?

Lanesboro Primary School, Lanesboro, County Longford Does one bad apple spoil the bunch?

Réalt na Mara School, Dundalk, County Louth Which is the best killer of micro-organisms: lemon, bread soda, vinegar or bleach?

Scoil Mhuire, Our Lady’s Island, Broadway , County Wexford How could we make our classroom chairs more functional and safe for school use?

St Aidan’s Primary School, Enniscorthy, County Wexford Beautiful bugs and butterflies: How can we encourage biodiversity?

St Ibars N.S., Clohamon, Bunclody, County Wexford How is vegetable growth affected when watered with chlorinated, fresh or bottled water?

All Saints, Carnew, County Wicklow How can we streamline our car to make it faster?

Newtownmountkennedy Primary School, County Wicklow Water: If we were more aware would we take more care?

St Gerard’s Junior School, Bray, County Wicklow Why when you hear a recording of yourself does it sound different to “your normal voice”?

Wicklow Montessori Primary School, Ballyguile, County Wicklow Can we reuse used water?

Barefield N.S., Barefield, Ennis, County Clare Growing plants in a Hydroponic System: Will the quality of lights used affect growth?

S.N. Eoin Baiste, Ballyvaughan, County Clare How do wind turbines turn wind into electricity?

Derryclough N.S., Drinagh, Dunmanway, County Cork How can we decrease the amount of fuel consumed in the process of recycling?

St John’s G.N.S., Carrigaline, County Cork Kerry’s Gold: What gives our beaches their colour?

Nagle Rice N.S., Milltown, County Kerry How does rotar blade design effect wind turbine efficiency?

Scoil Mhuire, Brosna, Tralee, County Kerry Does pollution effect the growth of lichens?

Doon Convent N.S. , Doon, County Limerick How is colour created and used in our environment?

Fairgreen N.S., Belturbet, County Cavan How do non-Newtonian fluids behave under different conditions?

St Anne’s N.S., Bailieborough, County Cavan

here’s to the next 50 years... proud display partner BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition

t: +353 1 4506006 www.jrdisplays.ie

Robots, is focused on interactivity and highlighting the simple dangers that lurk around every corner of the farm yard. In the Industries Hall we will showcase our association with Embrace Farm and their powerful awareness campaign “What’s left behind”.

PHARMA CHEMICAL IRELAND

Stand 1: IBEC PharmaChemical Ireland, and the Irish Medical Devices Association the two Ibec groups which represents the pharmaceutical, chemicals, the medical devices and diagnostics sectors respectively, will be joined with representatives from Eli Lilly and Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Teleflex Medical and Stryker Ireland. The representatives on the stand will showcase how science and technology play an integral role in our daily lives. Visitors to the stand will be delighted by a range of interactive demonstrations from exciting chemistry experiments, to demonstrating an innovative access airway medical device and keyhole surgery using innovative medical technology instruments and cameras. This is a great opportunity to find out about the range of careers in both the Biopharma and medtech sectors. The pharmaceutical, chemicals and medical technology industries are vital for Ireland’s economy. These growth sectors generates over 58 % of the country exports employing over 50,000 people, and represent significant and exciting career opportunities for future graduates.

To coincide with our participation with the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition and our association with Embrace Farm we are also rolling out a series of farm safety awareness signs highlighting the danger of farm activity to farmers. These signs focus on falls, machinery, slurry and cattle as these are the four major areas where accidents occur.

Stand 5: Irish Centre for High-End Computing (ICHEC) The Irish Centre for High-End Computing (ICHEC) is a national technology centre that manages Ireland’s fastest supercomputer, Fionn. Through high performance computing (HPC), we enable scientists and industry to carry out large-scale simulations and data analysis in a wide range of areas from nanotechnology, climate and weather, geology, astronomy to genetics.

This year the ICHEC stand will showcase the importance, power and potential of HPC in meeting the world’s energy demands from conventional (oil and gas) and renewable (wind and tidal) sources. Also on display will be a visualisation of a 100-year climate model of Earth that highlights our need for a diversity of energy sources. Visitors to the booth will experience hands-on demonstrations and informative presentations from our staff, along with the chance to participate in a competition for an exciting prize!

Stand 2: Coláistí Samhraidh (An Gaeltacht) Is é CONCOS an scáth-eagraíocht do formhór Choláistí Samhraidh na tíre.

Tá na Coláistí Samhraidh lonnaithe i ngach Gaeltacht, chomh maith le roinnt Colaistí sa nGalltacht.

Stand 6: The Patents Office

Tá fíor-thábhacht ag baint le Coláistí Samhraidh chun feabhas a chur ar labhairt, líofacht agus saibhreas na Gaeilge do dheagóirí a bheas ag iarraidh na marcanna is mó a bhaint amach san Árd Teistiméireacht. Tá 50% marcanna le fáil ar an Teanga Labhartha, sé sin, 40% don béaltriail agus 10% don cluastuiscint.

The Patents Office is a statutory office under the direction and control of the Controller of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks and operates under the aegis of the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. The role of the Patents Office is to provide an efficient and effective system of industrial property protection that will encourage technological progress and promote enterprise through the implantation by the Office of the relevant legislation. This is to be achieved through the protection of industrial property rights in the fields of patents, trademarks and designs and the dissemination of relevant information in conjunction with each of these activities.

Bígí linn i Samhradh 2015 chun spraoi, spórt agus craic a bheith agaibh agus sibh ag cur feabhas ar bhur chuid Gaeilge!

Irish Language Colleges Concos is the umbrella organisation for most of the country’s Irish Language Colleges.

Irish Language Colleges are located in all Gaeltacht regions as well as some in non-Gaeltacht regions.

Irish language Colleges have a very important role to play in improving fluency and enriching the spoken Irish Language for teenagers who want to get the highest marks possible from the Leaving Certificate.

Stand 7: Teagasc

There is 50% of marks given on the spoken language, 40% for the Oral exam and 10% for the Aural exam.

Join us this summer (2015) for fun, sport and craic while improving your Irish!

Stand 3: Henkel Henkel is a global leader of brands and technologies organised into three business areas: Laundry & Home Care, Beauty Care and Adhesive Technologies. Founded in 1876, Henkel holds leading market positions both in the consumer and industrial businesses, with brands such as Persil, Schwarzkopf and Loctite. Henkel employs about 47,000 people and reported sales of 16.4 billion euros in 2013. Henkel Ireland Operations & Research Ltd, located in Tallaght, Dublin is a centre of excellence for adhesive technologies. New innovative products are developed at the R&D centre where there are currently 130 employees, the majority of whom are science & engineering graduates. The technology centre is one of the primary locations of the Global Acrylics Technology, with a focus on fundamental & applied research in cyanoacrylate and acrylic technologies. The technology centre collaborates with universities and academic research institutes in many areas including composites, nanotechnologies and advanced material science.

Teagasc supports science-based innovation in the agri-food sector to underpin profitability, competitiveness and sustainability. It contributes to the national programme of innovation activities including the creation of commercially-applicable knowledge. Teagasc is committed to transferring its discoveries from the lab to industry for the benefit of the Irish economy.

Developing partnerships and collaborations with industry is central to our strategy.

Companies can engage with us by way of services and contract research, collaborations and commercialisation of intellectual property. We offer specific capabilities, services, know-how and specialised infrastructure and we have available technologies developed in-house for which we are actively seeking industrial partners for commercialisation. A critical element of our service offering is Moorepark Technology Ltd. (MTL), a modern plant containing pilot-scale processing equipment for the dairy industry. The meat industry is served by a meat technology centre, and specialised laboratories are available in support of the overall food industry.

Stand 8: Veterinary Council of Ireland The Veterinary Council of Ireland’s stand represents a veterinary clinic where visitors will learn what is involved in being a veterinary practitioner or veterinary nurse. Visitors will be able to try their hand at closing a wound in an animal, or they can search with an endoscope for a foreign body in a dog’s trachea – you never know what you may find in there! The stand has been put together with the help of the UCD Veterinary School and is staffed by students who will answer any questions you may have about working in veterinary medicine. Veterinary medicine is a hugely important profession, dealing not just with animal welfare but with food safety, new food sources, livestock healthcare, medical research, and environmental protection.

Stand 4: ABP 2014 has been a particularly challenging year when it comes to farm safety, with 26 farm fatalities on Irish farms – up from 16 fatalities in 2013. ABP Food Group is the country’s leading beef processor and we believe that we can play a role in helping create awareness about this problem and ultimately reduce the amount of accidents on farms.

Through our association with the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition our aim is to help change attitudes at school-age level and empower young people to be ambassadors for farm safety in their own communities across Ireland. Our stand, located beside the World of

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Stand 9: Easons Easonology is a completely new Eason developed zone in which Challenge, Creativity and Discovery inspire learning and fun with games, gadgets and science sets. Come visit our

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Easonology stand in the Science & Technology area where we will be demonstrating science based games and hosting fun challenges throughout the day. Join the “Lego Mixels Race” to see if you can beat the current record by building a Mixels model in the fastest time. Why not challenge your friend or one of the Easonology hosts to a Wacky Robot race.

Great prizes to be won for you and your school!

You can also check out our range of Science games and gadgets available nationwide at the Easonology stand.

For more info on Easonology visit www.easons.com

Stand 10: The Psychological Society of Ireland The Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) is the Learned Society and Professional Body for psychology in Ireland. Its object is to advance psychological science by supporting and disseminating research, practice and study of psychology in a way that seeks to inform and educate society and to enhance the quality of life of our citizens. Achieving this goal involves activities such as maintaining the highest quality and standards in psychology education and training through accreditation of degree and diplomas in third level educational institutions, and by ensuring that psychologists’ research and practice meet the highest professional and ethical standards. This year, PSI is showcasing some of the wonders and benefits of psychological science. Among the attractions is the opportunity to test your motor skills using our interactive reaction time experiment with the chance of winning a prize. Tweet us using #PSIBTYS for another chance to win a prize and to receive information on careers in psychology and upcoming events. See our top 5 visual illusions, famous and infamous psychology experiments from history, and our evidence based tips for promoting mental health and wellbeing.

Stand 14: The Marie Keating Foundation The Marie Keating Foundation is a charity which provides cancer information and awareness to the public. We work closely with schools and have visited many schools to date. The Foundation has developed a Schools Programme, which is a programme we deliver in schools on cancer education. We would be pleased to visit your school and would like to hear from you on info@mariekeating.ie or call us on 01-6283726. A visit from one of our nurses can offer students the opportunity to have short targeted information talks – as well as information packs, we also have teaching aids like tar-in-a-jar and smokelyzer, which show the damage smoking causes, as well as fat chunks, alcohol measurements and skin and mouth cancer demonstration models. You can also hear about how doing something kind or telling us about something kind that has been done for you could help win the Marie Keating Foundation €60,000 as part of Electric Ireland’s Powering Kindness campaign. Come by the stand and learn why tweeting and posting to Instagram and Facebook using #poweringkindness and @ mariekeating can make all the difference during Powering Kindness Week, 17th-23rd January.

Stand 15: Tour America Tour America is proud to be a 100% Irish owned travel company based in Dublin and Cork.

October 2015 will see us celebrating 20 years in business. During the worst recession that Ireland has ever seen, Tour America is delighted to have grown and sustained the test of time and we owe our successes to our extremely dedicated and loyal team of travel experts, to you, our loyal customers and to our suppliers who provide us with excellent product deals year round.

ONLINE SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR PROJECT MATHS

Stand 11: TheMathsTutor.ie Ireland’s Leading Online Support System for Project Maths Want to improve your maths?

Confused by all this Project Maths stuff? We’re here to help!

We specialise in Project Maths support, and we’ll help you to get on top of it, one topic at a time.

We provide you with Video Lessons, Interactive Exercises, and Online Support, all specially designed for Irish secondary school students. If you find it hard to learn maths from oldfashioned textbooks, you will love this new approach!

At themathstutor.ie, we’ve taken the grind out of maths! No need to waste time and money going to expensive grinds any more – learn and get support from home or on the move, any time of the day, on your laptop, tablet or smartphone. We’re there for you, 7 days a week!

Remember, our system is the only one that fully covers Project Maths, with Irish teachers teaching the Irish syllabus, and supporting you every evening and at weekends. Don’t waste your time on topics that aren’t on the Irish syllabus – we’ve got you covered for your exams!

Our team literally “wrote the book” on exam technique and we’ll show you how to maximise your maths grade. With all this support for Irish maths students, no wonder we were voted the top-rated e-learning system by The Irish Times!

You can try out themathstutor.ie with no obligation, and you can choose to upgrade to Full Membership at any time. We’ve had rave reviews from students, parents and teachers – so now it’s your turn to try it out for yourself!

SPECIAL OFFER! We’re running a very special offer during the BT Young Scientist Exhibition, so make sure to call to our stand and say hello. Looking forward to meeting you!

Stand 16: NUI Galway – Cell Explorers The students and staff of the College of Science at NUI Galway maintain vigorous research activity across the full range of Science disciplines including Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and the Biological, Biomedical, Environmental and Marine Sciences. At our stand you can experience the thrill of scientific research by participating in Cell EXPLORERS activities. This programme is an initiative of science communication and public engagement run by the School of Natural Sciences at NUI Galway. Cell EXPLORERS promotes biological and biomedical sciences through practical discovery. Please visit our stand and participate in these activities, which represent only part of the wide range of opportunities for scientific study and research at NUI Galway. Find out more at our stand about opportunities to study at NUI Galway, whether your scientific interests are in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, health science, earth or marine science, environmental science or any combination of these.

Stand 17: University College Cork Visit the exhibition of the College of Science, Engineering and Food Science, UCC, to experience the latest breakthroughs and amazing discoveries of our world-renowned research scientists.

Meet with our scientists and students to discover exhibits of interest for children, students and adults alike. Investigate everything from ancient dinosaur fossils to a modern crime scene investigation.

To celebrate the year of George Boole don’t forget to check out our brand new dominos app!

Stand 12: Centre for Talented Youth Ireland The Centre for Talented Youth Ireland provides fun academic enrichment courses to high ability students between the ages of 6-16 years old on Saturdays, and the summer. We run courses in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Tralee, Wexford, Athlone, Sligo and Letterkenny. Subjects include medicine, how to make a computer App, forensics, veterinary science, novel writing, psychology and more.

Stand 13: Institute of Physics in Ireland There will be hands on action at the Institute of Physics stand as we put the fun into fundamental physics. 2015 is the UNESCO designated International Year of Light so the IOP team will be exploring lights, colours, shadows and much more.

Along with exhibits and demos you won’t leave empty handed as you can pick up plenty of posters, details on hundreds of physics career options and a guide to all the third level physics courses in Ireland.

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Stand 18: University of Limerick (UL) www.ul.ie The Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick www.scieng.ul.ie with the UL Mathematics Applications Consortium for Science and Industry www.macsi.ie provide you the opportunity to experience interactive activities in Engineering , Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Equine Science, Electronics, Architecture, Design, Mathematics, Computer Science, Gaming, Architecture and much more. The Faculty offers extensive teaching and research programmes in a wide range of industry relevant scientific and engineering disciplines. All programmes include periods of co-operative, industrial or teaching experiences. The Faculty carries out world-leading research which translates into practice and develops a broader understanding of the careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

The University of Limerick invites you to visit the campus to experience our progressive and exciting facilities (including a 50m swimming pool). Our programmes in Science, Engineering, Technology and Mathematics are wide and varied, offering many unique and sustainable careers essential to the growth of our economy. Whether it’s the study of cloud computing,

the pursuit of renewable energy technologies, the development of innovative company solutions or pioneering scientific research, the study options within Science and Engineering at the University of Limerick are extensive. www.ul.ie.

118 nationalities and a wide range of social backgrounds and age-groups.

Committed to excellence in teaching, research and innovation, Trinity guarantees a distinctive, all round undergraduate experience that will change your life forever.

Trinity’s Faculty of Engineering, Mathematics and Science offers world class teaching.

Are you interesting in studying Astrophysics, Biochemistry, Botany, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth Sciences, Engineering, Genetics, Geography, Geology, Immunology, Mathematics, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Physics, Physiology, Science, Statistics or Zoology?

Stand 19: Coláiste na Rinne, Gaeltacht na nDéise, Co. Phort Láirge Tá Coláiste na Rinne suite i nGaeltacht na nDéise i gCo. Phort Láirge. Bunaíodh Coláiste na Rinne i 1905 agus tá cúrsaí éagsúla idir lámha ann le breis is céad bliain anois. Bíonn Scoil na Leanaí ar siúl ó Mheán Fómhair go deireadh Bealtaine, bíonn Cúrsaí Samhraidh ann i mí an Mheithimh, i mí Iúil agus i mí Lúnasa. Eagraítear cúrsaí do mhic léinn, lucht ollscoile agus daoine fásta freisin i gcaitheamh na bliana. Tugann Gaelscoileanna, Gaelcholáistí agus scoileanna eile turais - 3 lá nó 5 lá - ar Ghaeltacht na nDéise freisin. Tá gach eolas maidir le Coláiste na Rinne ar fáil ag www.anrinn.com.

Visit our stand in the World of Science & Technology hall to find out more about these exciting courses.

Hold our friendly cockroaches, see live chemistry experiments or have a chat with our friendly staff and demonstrators who are more than happy to answer any of your questions.

Coláiste na Rinne has been promoting the Irish Language, the cultural and heritage of Gaeltacht na nDéise, for over 100 years. It provides many different courses in Irish and through the medium of Irish to a wide variety of students each year. See the College website for all information www.anrinn.com.

Stand 23: Junior Cycle for Teachers Junior Cycle for Teachers (or JCT) is a dedicated continuing professional development (CPD) support service of the Department of Education and Skills. The aim of JCT is to support schools in their implementation of the new Framework for Junior Cycle through the provision of appropriate high quality continuing professional development for school leaders and teachers, and the provision of effective teaching and learning resources.

Stand 20: Coláiste Uisce Coláiste UISCE is a unique activity based Irish Language College and Adventure Centre situated in the heart of Mayo’s Gaeltacht, where the teaching of Irish is intertwined with the enjoyable experience of modern exhilarating adventure and water sports. ‘Learning Irish is fun’ is our motto at Coláiste UISCE. We now have over 21 years’ experience in providing safe, educational and enjoyable Irish and Adventure courses. The teaching of Irish through the thrilling medium of adventure sports helps students develop a positive attitude towards learning Irish. We believe that changing a child’s attitude towards Irish is the most important step towards learning the language. We are extremely proud of our excellent teacher to student ratio of 1:6 during water sports. The 1:6 ratio ensures that each student receives quality instruction and personal attention which is unparalleled in any other Irish college. Outdoors our experienced instructors put into practice what students have learnt in the classroom. Learning Irish and changing student’s attitudes is much easier in the outdoor class room. Students from Coláiste UISCE’s not only return from the Gaeltacht speaking Irish with increased ease but they will also have a greater understanding of the language as a result of our practical approach to teaching the language

JCT will have staff from their Science team on the exhibition stand who will be able to answer questions about the new Junior Cycle Science subject specification that will be introduced in schools from September 2015. The team will also share their plans for teacher CPD with attendees and will have plenty of ideas and exemplars of innovative science teaching that will be sure to engage both teachers and students alike.

JCT are delighted to be present at this year’s BT Young Scientist competition.

Stand 24: whowhatwherewhenwhy - W5 W5 is a multi award-winning science centre in Belfast, home to over 250 interactive exhibits that let you explore flight, weather, sound, levers, pulleys and so much more. As one of the top visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, W5 has been engaging visitors and educational groups with science, engineering and maths for over ten years. Part of their achievements over that time is to have developed creative demonstration shows that really bring science to life! Why not drop by our stand to try out some of our favourite science tricks?

Visit the W5 website at www.w5online.co.uk.

Stand 21: Sightsavers Sightsavers is an international organisation working with partners in more than 30 countries to prevent and cure blindness in the developing world, and to support blind and disabled people to live independently. 80 per cent of blindness in the world is avoidable or curable.

90 per cent of people who are blind live in developing countries. This is incredibly unfair. In developing countries, just as health care is more difficult to access, so too is educational and occupational support for those who lose their sight. Most people who lose their sight can no longer work. They become dependent on their families. People with disabilities deserve the same opportunities as everyone else. Every year, we support our partners to carry out millions of eye examinations and refer people for treatment to prevent blindness and restore sight. Through community volunteers in developing countries, we enable the distribution of medication to prevent blinding diseases. We fund operations for people who need them, and train eye care workers and surgeons. We work with national governments, strengthening systems that tackle the problems at the root of avoidable blindness – the sorts of things most of us take for granted, like access to clean water, sanitation facilities and education. We make changes for the long term, and help change systems from the inside to ensure support continues to be given to the people who need it. We work with partners to train specialist teaching staff; supply glasses, Braille kits and other learning tools; and educate communities to reduce stigma around visual impairment and blindness. Because of Sightsavers, people who are visually impaired or have other disabilities are supported to live independently, get an education and earn an income. Sightsavers change lives for the better, for the long term.

Stand 22: Trinity College Dublin (Coláiste na Tríonóide, Baile Átha Cliath) Trinity College Dublin is recognised internationally as Ireland’s premier university offering a unique educational experience across a range of disciplines in the arts, humanities, engineering, science, human, social and health sciences.

Located in the heart of Ireland’s busy capital city, the state-of-the-art facilities include the Science Gallery, a modern Sports Centre, and the Trinity College Library, the largest research library in the country.

Trinity has a vibrant community of 16,800 students representing every county in Ireland and

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Stand 25: Science Spin Magazine Science Spin is Ireland’s general science magazine and covers all the sciences from astronomy to zoology and is written in clear language with a lively presentation. Science Spin makes the best in science available to everyone. News and features written by scientists and award winning journalists cover topics such as ageing, fossils, space and fusion power. Also, we have recently introduced a ‘Family Science’ section that includes a number of interesting experiments and projects that can be done by children and their parents and there are regular articles on individuals who talk about their current job and how they chose science as a career.

Spin also has wildlife, news and features. Annual subscription is only €30 and the digital edition is distributed to all those who register their and email address on our website. www. sciencespin.com The digital page-turning edition has live hyperlinks to email addresses and web pages. Viewers can read the publication on line, zoom in, turn pages and download information to their desktop or tablet. Science Spin is published six times a year and is available on subscription or through newsagents Call to our stand in the World of Science and Technology zone and pick up a free copy of the magazine and we look forward to meeting and talking to you.

Stand 26: Irish Science Teachers’ Association / Eol Oidí na hÉireann The Irish Science Teachers’ Association is the professional association of science teachers in the Republic of Ireland. It is over fifty years in existence and is the longest established provider of CPD for science teachers in Ireland. ISTA is a voluntary organisation and works in close collaboration with international organisations such as ASE UK & Scotland and EU via Scientix.

It is a founder member of ICASE (International Council of Associations for Science Education).

ISTA is one of the pioneers of collaborative learning, linking in with DES, NCCA, SEC, IoPI, BTYSTE, SciFest, industry and Third Level institutions. Many organisations communicate their outreach initiatives via our association as we have an extensive communication network. www. ista.ie @IrishSciTeach & Facebook.

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ISTA organises events at both national and local levels. The ISTA Annual Conference is a very popular event and internationally renowned speakers are invited to present frontier science to teachers. “Science at National & International Level” will be held in UCC on 27th-29th March 2015.

All welcome!

Stand 27: Science Gallery Ireland Science Gallery Dublin is delighted to be at BTYS 2015! Over three days we’ll be levitating discs with supercooled magnets, showing you some amazing designs realised through our 3D printer and offering you all manner of interesting pop up workshops with our MAKESHOP. Joe and Roney, part of Science Gallery’s extended family will be entertaining you daily with the “The Roney & Joe Science Show” and if you’re feeling inspired you can come visit us and meet the science heroes themselves.

A groundbreaking initiative pioneered by Trinity College Dublin, Science Gallery is a new kind of space where art and science collide. Since opening in 2008, over 1.8 million visitors have experienced 30 exhibitions ranging from living art experiments to materials science and from the future of the human race to the future of play. With a target audience is 15 - 25 year olds, Science Gallery focuses on providing programmes and experience that allow visitors to participate and facilitate social connections, always providing an element of surprise!

Stand 28: Analog Devices Analog Devices is a world leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of a broad range of high performance and very innovative analog, mixed-signal and digital signal processing (DSP) integrated circuits (ICs) used in virtually all types of electronic equipment. Used by over 60,000 customers worldwide, our signal processing products play a fundamental role in converting, conditioning and processing real-world phenomena such as temperature, pressure, sound, light, speed and motion into electrical signals to be used in a wide array of electronic devices. Headquartered in Boston, USA, Analog Devices’ European base are its development centers in Limerick and Cork which now employ over 1200 people working in the general fields of science and technology.

Analog Devices is proud to support the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition and view our support as added encouragement to students in 2nd level education to consider areas in Science and Technology when considering choices for 3rd level education. Irish Engineers working with Analog Devices hold the largest number of US patents in Ireland because we just love to invent and innovate! Our engineering team would like to welcome you to our stand in the Technology Hall where our engineering team will open your mind to the fun, interesting and downright weird applications of science and technology in everyday life. Come and test your skills, knowledge and scientific understanding with some of the new demos which we have on display this year. Can you escape from the Laser Vault and avoid breaking the laser beams? What’s new in our technology corner? Find out how our RGB ball uses persistence of vision to create a cyclic multi-colour effect. Test your brain-power with our interactive Mind Boggle Quiz but most of all visit our stand to stimulate your interest in the amazing world of Science and Technology.

Stand 29: SFI Discover Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) is the national foundation for investment in scientific and engineering research. SFI invests in academic researchers and research teams in the Higher Education Institutions in Ireland, who are most likely to generate new knowledge, leading edge technologies and competitive enterprises.

SFI Discover, the education and public engagement programme of SFI, aims to increase interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among students, teachers and members of the public. The mission is to contribute to Ireland’s continued growth and development as a society – one that has an active and informed interest and involvement in STEM. SFI Research Centres help link scientists and engineers in partnerships across academia and industry to address crucial research questions, foster the development of new and existing Irish-based technology companies, attract industry that could make an important contribution to Ireland and its economy, and expand educational and career opportunities in Ireland in science and engineering.

SFI supports the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition in order to promote the benefits of investing in scientific and engineering research to young people and the general public and to encourage young people to consider undertaking a career in science and engineering.

Come visit our stand in The World of Science & Technology.

Science Foundation Ireland Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin 2 Website: www.sfi.ie

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Stand 30: European Union The European Union stand in the World of Science and Technology (Stand number 35 in the Industries Hall) has a special focus on Food Research.

Every day there will be interactive areas where you can: • Test your knowledge about food and exercise by taking part in the ‘Food4Me Quiz’. You will be surprised at what you learn & could even take home a prize!

• Learn how packaging protects our food and how we can protect the environment when we dispose of it in the correct way.

Free resources for students, parents, teachers and the general public will be available on the theme of Food Research, Horizon 2020 – the EU’s €80 billion Research & Innovation Programme (2014-2020) - and on the European Union in general.

Information officers from the European Commission Representation in Ireland, the Joint Research Centre and the European Parliament Office in Ireland will be available to assist you with questions about EU policies.

So drop in to see us at the EU stand No. 35 and find out more about what the EU is doing in the area of Food Research - we look forward to meeting you!

For any questions about the European Union: The European Commission Representation in Ireland website is: www.euireland.ie You can visit us in person: European Union House, 18 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Call us: 0 1 634 11 11 Follow us: Facebook - @EUIreland Twitter - @ eurireland

Stand 31: Coder Dojo Giving kids and young people all over the world better access to the Magic behind the technology that surrounds us and touches almost everything that we do in our lives, CoderDojo is a global community of free programming clubs for young people. The CoderDojo community is at BT Young Scientist for another year of fun and video games! CoderDojo helps young people in almost 550 locations across 55 countries learn how to code, everything from apps and websites to robots that can bring you a cup of tea. This year at the BT Young Scientist, the CoderDojo booth will be showcasing the creativity inspired and encouraged at CoderDojos across the world. Some of the projects on display will be games made by students around Ireland for the “This is not a Game” Ocean Challenge, a collaboration between CoderDojo and the US Embassy in Dublin to get Irish students coding their first video games!

Don’t miss it and make sure to drop by!

Stand 32: National Children’s Research Centre The NCRC is located on the grounds of Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, and is the largest centre for health research on children in Ireland. Ireland has one of the largest populations of under 18 year olds in Europe- almost 1/4 of the total population. Research on and for adults is not always directly relevant to children- some diseases are only found in childhood, children respond to drugs differently to adults, and children are growing and developing so it is important that any treatment that they receive does not affect this. Also, children and young people are the future adults, so healthy children will mean a health adult population in the future.

The NCRC aims to promote Better Health for Children Through Research. We have teams of clinicians and scientists who carry out research on a wide range of diseases of children and our stand illustrates some of these which span from premature infants to 18 year olds. Our theme this year is to promote healthy life choices by young people to guarantee their future health.

Stand 33: Deer Park Schoolwear Deer Park is Ireland’s leading School Jumper manufacturer. For 30 years now they have being manufacturing the highest quality school knitwear. Apart from creating much needed employment in Ireland, they can ensure first-hand that only quality raw materials and standards of production are used. This gives you the longest lasting School Jumper on the Irish market.

There is no comparison when it comes to generic imported jumpers. In fact unlike most of their competitors, Deer Park actually knit their jumpers still in Ireland. This creates over 50 Irish Jobs in their local community in Kildare.

Deer Park invites you to call to their stand and see first-hand the product collection they offer.

They will explain the major differences between a true Irish quality brand - Deer Park and other imported jumpers. They will dispel the myths over pricing and explain why the school jumper is the one item of the uniform they feel should be maintained.

Also check out their new range of Softshell School Jackets - the smarter alternative to the traditional school jacket that students much prefer to wear!

Is your School Jumper Deer Park? If so, pop along to the stand where they will also be having giveaways throughout the week.

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DeerParkSchoolwear or check out www.deerpark.ie

Stand 34: EMC Do you have a natural talent or a passion for maths, science and technology? Do you want to be involved in the next big wave in information technology; storing and analysing huge volumes of structured and unstructured data? Well, so do we! Come along to the EMC stand to learn more about Flash and how EMC is Redefining Storage. Talk to our employees about the unique culture and working environment that has won EMC Ireland a “Great Place to Work” every year since 2010. We’re waiting to meet you.

EMC, the world’s leading developer and provider of information infrastructure technology and solutions, celebrates 27 years in Cork and its sixth year as a Centre of Excellence (COE). With 30+ business functions, it is the largest EMC manufacturing site outside of the US and EMC now employs over 3,000 people in Ireland.

Stand 35: Bell Labs Scientists at Bell Labs are transforming the way in which we connect to one another and with the information around us. Since 1925, its scientists have been leaders in the fields of Information Technologies and Communications – pioneering technologies such as the transistor, laser, UNIX, digital imaging, the concept for cellular networks, and optical networking – technologies at the heart of today’s information society. Bell Labs’ scientists have been recognized by many of the world’s most prestigious technology societies for their contributions, and have been awarded with 7 Nobel Prizes in Physics for their insights ranging from the nature of subatomic particles to the beginning of our universe. Bell Labs is the research organization within Alcatel-Lucent.

for invention rights, the III team in Ireland will utilize their vast experience to develop the fund’s investment strategy, build a patent portfolio, and monetize through licensing and selling activities. III will also leverage Intellectual Ventures’ North American and Asian based operations to grow the global IP market. Buy We acquire inventions from individual inventors, small to large sized companies, universities, start-ups, and brokers, and then develop and compile the IP assets into highly relevant industry-focused portfolios. License and Sell We engage with companies around the world, of all sizes, to minimize their Invention Gap™ exposure—the difference between the invention rights they have and the invention rights they need—acting as a strategic partner for present and future intellectual property needs.

Stand 39: Health Products Regulatory Authority We are the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and our role is to protect and enhance public and animal health by regulating medicines, medical devices and other health products.

We are a state agency that puts the health of people and animals at the core of everything we do. We use our scientific and clinical expertise to review and monitor health products available in Ireland or exported abroad. Our aim is to make sure that health products we regulate are as safe as possible and do what they are intended to do.

Formerly known as the Irish Medicines Board (IMB), we became the HPRA in July 2014. Our new name better reflects our broader remit and regulatory functions which have expanded over a number of years to include: • Human medicines • Veterinary medicines • Clinical trials • Medical devices • Controlled drugs • Blood and blood components • Tissues and cells • Cosmetic products • The protection of animals used for scientific purposes • Organs intended for transplantation

Stand 40: Central Statistics Office

Stand 36: Science and Technology in Action Have you ever wondered how the science taught at school really links to what is practised in our leading organisations?

Would you like to learn more about how the curriculum relates to real applications of science and technology in the workplace?

Science & Technology in Action (STA) is an innovative teaching and learning resource which brings industry and education together. For use by second level teachers and students, all the resource materials across the editions are available on www.sta.ie and the latest 10th Anniversary edition of the hard copy packs have been delivered to each school free of charge.

Each lesson in the pack relates to the activities of the participating organisations. In this way, the lessons help to enhance the relevance of science and technology to our everyday life. This grounding in reality is designed to raise awareness and engage students in the real world of science and technology.

Stand 37: Barnardos Barnardos supports children whose well-being is under threat, by working with them, their families and communities and by campaigning for the rights of children. Barnardos was established in 1962 and is Ireland’s leading independent children’s charity.

Stand 38: Invention Investment Ireland – Intellectual Ventures Invention Investment Ireland (III) is the management company for Intellectual Ventures newest Intellectual Property (IP) investment fund, providing a full range of asset management and licensing services. III manages our investors’ funds and uses the capital to invest in the acquisition and development of a wide variety of U.S. and international IP in existing and emerging markets. Our goal is to create an international market for the efficient transfer of invention rights, providing the highest value possible for our investors and customers through the license and sale of our assets.

Historically the majority of invention investment funds have resided in the United States. III identified an opportunity to increase access to international investment capital and enable broader geographic reach across markets for IP acquisition and monetization. Dublin is the ideal location to base our operations: Ireland has a flexible and open economy, a deep pool of talented people from which to build our team, and a strong tradition of supporting knowledge based industries and innovation. Business Model To create an international market

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The Central Statistics Office (CSO) is responsible for the collection and dissemination of official statistics in Ireland. We measure all of the country’s activities from Births, Deaths and Marriages, to where and how people live and travel, how our Government collects and spends money and the activities of our businesses and the wider economy. We publish our figures (data) on our website, www.cso.ie, to help people make sense of what’s happening in our country. Lots of people use the data that we publish to help them make important decisions.

Being able to use the figures that the CSO publish is a skill and it is important that individuals and organisations can use this information effectively. Therefore the CSO has a number of projects to encourage people to learn this skill. At our stand you can test your skills by taking part in an online statistical quiz. You can learn about our exciting poster competition and the Apps4gaps competition. You can fill out our annual school survey CensusAtSchool and you can be part of building a database when you take part in our Kendama™ challenge. Visit the CSO stand and have some fun with statistics.

Stand 41: RTÉ Come and explore the RTÉ set at this year’s BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition! Join us for an exciting line up of activity across television, radio and digital services. RTÉ will present many programmes live from the set, so there promises to be lots of lights, cameras and action!

Experience RTÉ 2fm’s Ryan Tubridy, Nicky Byrne, Rick O’Shea and others broadcasting live from the radio studio. Two Tube’s Stephen Byrne and Blathnaid Treacy will be filming each day from the set and the weather team will be there too presenting the lunchtime weather each day. In addition, there’s a lot for you to do! You can listen to the beats of RTÉ Pulse or try your hand at presenting the Weather. Check out live music performances, enjoy entertainment with RTÉjr or have a go at the RTÉ Player interactive game. Not only this, but you can also be interviewed by your favourite RTÉ presenter! Follow @rte or check in at the RTÉ stand for more updates.

Stand 42: Intel Ireland Intel Ireland joins the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition again this year with its usual mix of high technology, interactive exhibits and exclusive giveaways! Intel Security will make sure you are safe to surf online with fun quizzes and a live feed to Instagram. Meanwhile Nimbus will demonstrate their Smart School Desk – the coolest kit in the classroom. This year will also see a range of Makers demonstrate the incredible variety of fun things they have built, from a home-made bubble machine to a pigeon simulator from Imperial College London, all powered by Intel Galileo technology which was designed right here in Ireland. Meanwhile our friends from CRANN, Trinity College Dublin, and Tyndall National Institute, Cork will impress you with their collection of weird and wonderful nanotech-enabled products and prototypes.

We look forward to welcoming you to our stand in the Industry Hall and showing you the power of Intel inside!

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Stand 1: Waterford Science Region Visit the Waterford Science Region stand in the Ecozone. Witness the worlds of science come alive! Get face to face with advanced robots and meet secretive sea-life. Learn how the human eye works and you might even bump into 17th century Irish scientist Robert Boyle while you do exciting experiments!

Making its BT Young Scientist debut is STEAMdream- a daring combination of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics bringing static objects to life through the new medium of projection mapping! This exciting Maths Week Ireland, Applied Robotics and Digital Media innovation will bring maths and science to life in a whole new way!

The stand is coordinated by award-winning STEM centre, Calmast from Waterford Institute of Technology in cooperation with leading Waterford pharmaceutical and healthcare companies Bausch & Lomb, Teva and Waterford City and County Council working together to show the best of Waterford as a region for science excellence.

Suirbhéireacht Gheolaíochta Éireann Geological Survey of Ireland

Stand 2: GSI The Geological Society of Ireland (GSI), founded in 1845, is the National Earth Science Agency.

It is responsible for providing geological advice and information, and for the acquisition of data for this purpose. GSI produces a range of products including maps, reports, and databases and acts as a knowledge centre and project partner in all aspects of Irish Geology. It is a division of the Department of Communications, Energy & Natural Resources (DCENR) and has about 40 multi-disciplinary staff.

Geological Science is the science of the earth and geologists are those scientists who study the earth. Geoscience makes a big contribution to our lives and this stand will help promote knowledge of that contribution. The partners in the stand are showcasing, earthquakes, water and minerals as well as Ireland’s rocks. Projects highlighted include Tellus Border and INFOMAR. Joining the Geological Survey of Ireland on the stand are the Exploration Mining Divisions also from the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, and we are working in association with the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies, Natural History Museum, Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, with representatives from Irish Geological Association, Institute of Geologists of Ireland and Earth Science Ireland.

Stand 4: Irish Aid Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade: Ireland, through Irish Aid, the Government’s overseas aid programme, is a leader in the fight against world hunger and poverty. Irish Aid is hosting an exhibition in the EcoZone at this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition. Come and view film footage, displays, farming tools and produce, which allow visitors to learn about life for farming communities in Africa. Visitors to the Irish Aid stand can also sign up for African Drumming workshops, take part in a quiz and learn more about the work of the Irish Aid programme and how you and your school can get involved.

Stand 5: Young Scientist Tanzania Young Scientist Tanzania (YST) is an innovative initiative to transfer the successful BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) to Tanzania. YST is supported by the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition and the Tanzanian initiative will be based and developed on the Irish model.

YST was launched in Tanzania on 8th November 2011 and the first YST Exhibition was held in Dar-es-Salaam from 24-25th October 2012. The winning YST project from the 2014 Exhibition will be exhibiting in the RDS, so do try and pay them a visit.

Stand 6a & 6b: WorldWise Global Schools and Gorta-Self Help Africa Schools Programme Irish Aid’s WorldWise Global Schools (WWGS) is a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all post primary schools that want to engage in Development Education. WWGS provides a range of supports for development education initiatives at post-primary level. It is envisaged that WorldWise Global Schools will contribute to increased knowledge and understanding of global justice issues and increased engagement and action by students as active global citizens. Gorta-Self Help Africa has been working in post-primary schools in Ireland for more than a decade, conducting workshops and school presentations, supporting teachers with resources and information, and

58 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

assisting teenagers to become socially aware and engaged global citizens. Irish Aid, WorldWise Global Schools and Gorta-Self Help Africa sponsor the Science for Development Award and it is presented every year at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. The award encourages teachers and students to develop ideas, using appropriate technology that may prove useful at local community level in the Global South, reducing poverty and promoting social justice.

This can give the students a greater insight into the wider world, playing their role as a global citizen. This award is open to any entrant (individual or group) who has been accepted in the Intermediate or Senior sections of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. The BTYS judges will examine every relevant project during the normal judging procedure. The award provides a bursary for one student and one teacher to travel on a fact-finding/field testing visit to a country in Africa, in association with Gorta-Self Help Africa.

More information can be found at www.worldwiseschools.ie and www.selfhelpafrica.org/ie/ schools.

Stand 7: Green Schools - An Taisce Green-Schools, known internationally as Eco-Schools, is an international environmental education programme, environmental management system and award scheme that promotes and acknowledges long-term, whole school action for the environment.

Green-Schools in Ireland is operated and coordinated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce, in partnership with Local Authorities throughout the country, and is supported by the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and is sponsored by the Wrigley Company Ltd, National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), Irish Aid and Irish Water.

Green-Schools is Ireland’s most successful and popular environmental management programme for schools with over 90% of schools registered with the programme. Schools who have successfully implemented the seven steps of the programme are awarded the coveted Green Flag and, to date, 2991 schools have been awarded at least one flag. Beginning on the theme of Litter & Waste schools tackle environmental issues such as waste reduction, energy management, water conservation, sustainable and active travel to school, enhancing biodiversity and becoming global citizens, aware of how their local actions have global impacts.

During the academic year 2013/2014 schools in Ireland diverted 5,200 tonnes of waste from landfill; saved 17.7 million units (kWh) of electricity;conserved 384 million litres of water and saved 1.27 million litres of petrol and diesel.

Stand 8: Order of Malta Ireland The Order of Malta Ambulance Corps is a voluntary ambulance and first aid organisation with over 4,000 volunteers involved in over 80 units across the Island of Ireland. We are a major provider of excellence in first aid training, ambulance cover at large events, patient transport, community care, nursing services and assistance to other charities in most of the major cities and towns across the island of Ireland. Celebrating Order of Malta 75th Anniversary - Caring for the community The Ambulance Corps is committed to providing caring services in a Christian, caring and non-discriminatory manner, to “Our Lords, the Poor and the Sick”. Order of Malta Ambulance Corps, providing excellent standards of first aid training, community care facilities and services, delivered by people who care, with quality assured standards of training.

We operate over 165 ambulances, rapid response 4×4’s, mobile accident and emergency suites, support vehicles, medical bikes and command centres. Our headquarters also houses a command and control centre to coordinate vehicles and personnel in the event of a major incident. We are an entirely voluntary organisation and we receive no state funding.

Should you have any queries or would be interested in joining us, come along and visit us at our stand.

Stand 9: Petroleum Infrastructure Programme The Petroleum lnfrastructure Program is a government/industry/academic research initiative that promotes hydrocarbon exploration and development activities offshore Ireland by: — Developing lrish expertise in hydrocarbon exploration — Funding hydrocarbon exploration research in lrish universities and other third level institutions — Encouraging collaboration between the hydrocarbon exploration industry and lrish researchers The objective of our participation in the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition is to promote the exciting activities and career opportunities in earth science, in particular in earth science research and the petroleum industry.

At our stand you will find rock samples recovered from 10,000ft below the seabed offshore Ireland; samples of crude oil and oil reservoir rocks; seismic sections of Ireland’s offshore geology; and plate tectonic animations.

Young lrish graduates will be on the stand to explain why they studied geology and describe a typical day in the life of a petroleum exploration geologist.

Stand 10: Environmental Protection Agency Come visit our stand and see the hovercraft we use to monitor water quality. The Environmental Protection Agency’s mission is to protect and improve the environment as a valuable asset for the people of Ireland, and to protect our people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation and pollution.

Bumbleance http://www.bumbleance.com/ Happy Journeys BUMBLEance, the children’s ambulance service, provides stress-reducing journeys for children in state-of-the-art, safe and fun vehicles. The bright and fun exterior makes a positive first impression which carries through to the interior.

About Our vision is to provide improved and professional medical transportation services for longterm sick and seriously disabled children, who require professional ambulance transportation.

We will transport children in a fun environment from the far reaches of Ireland, both urban and rural, to their treatment centres.

Stand 11: Road Safety Unit, An Garda Síochána The Garda Road Safety Unit The Road Safety Unit’s overall aim is the reduction of road deaths and serious injuries and the improvement of road safety generally. The Unit is based in the Garda National Traffic Bureau and was established in 2001. The Unit delivers presentations on Road Safety to a number of groups in the community including:- • Schools and colleges • Youth Clubs • Senior Citizens • Local organisations • Industry groups The Unit’s presentation, It won’t happen to me, is mainly delivered to Transition Year students but can be adapted to cater for all audiences. It is a stand alone road safety presentation covering all the road safety ingredients including speed, alcohol, seatbelts, fatigue, distractions and consequences. It is delivered in a shock/ humorous manner and is designed to change attitudes and behaviour.

It also includes a very poignant interview with a mother who lost her 17 year old daughter in a fatal road traffic collision. The Unit also provides Road safety information in the “Traffic Watch” segment of the CrimeCall programme and at major public exhibitions such as The Young Scientist Exhibition, The National Ploughing Championships and a variety of car and motorcycle shows.

Mission Make Positive Life Impacts for Sick Children Description BUMBLEance is owned by the Saoirse Foundation, a not for profit national children’s charity.

The Saoirse Foundation was set up in March 2010 and our first project was the establishment of Bee For Battens, the National Charity for Batten Disease.

STEM Module The STEM Module visits schools and delivers stimulating and challenging courses that augment the curriculum in STEM, providing incentives to pupils to develop their interest and enthusiasm for these subjects.

Road Safety Authority (RSA) The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is a statutory organisation created by the Road Safety Authority Act 2006. It was established in September 2006 and its functions were transferred from the Department of Transport (DoT), the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the National Safety Council (NSC). The aim of the Road Safety Authority is to save lives and prevent injuries by reducing the number and severity of collisions on the road. Working to Save Lives is the stated goal adopted by the Board of the RSA. Key functions The RSA works to improve road safety in Ireland by: Developing and implementing information and education campaigns to increase awareness of road safety and promote safer driving. • Improving vehicle standards. • Establishing and monitoring a standard for driver instruction. • Delivering the the driving licence and learner permit service. • National Driver Licensing Service (NDLS). • Working with stakeholders to ensure a co-ordinated strategic response and ensure our collective resources are used wisely and efficiently. • Undertaking collision and road safety research in order to develop measures and recommendations to improve road safety. • Advising the Minister for Transport on road safety policy. • Overseeing the implementation of the Government Road Safety Strategy 2013 – 2020.

Some of the courses developed are based on forensic science, biotechnology, data capture and sensing, CAD/CAM, £d scanning, micro-routing and laser cutting.

Pupils can compare finger prints and event compare DNA profiles.

They can design and make model racing cars that can be treated on a racetrack against models constructed on a world-wide basis.

Using modern light microscopes with the high resolution cameras pupils can investigate the fascinating world off cell life and microscopic structures or using a Scanning Electron microscope study the fine details of insects and parasites.

112 Imagine you are visiting an EU country or even at home and you need to contact an ambulance, the fire brigade, the police or the coastguard. Would you know which emergency number to call?

As Europeans are increasingly travelling for business or leisure, millions of people could be faced with this problem. Fortunately, there is no need to look up and remember the emergency numbers for each EU country you are visiting. Just remember 112!

112 is your pan-European number to access the Emergency Services whilst travelling within the EU. In Ireland, 999 and 112 exist equally and run in parallel. Regardless of which number you call in Ireland, there will be no difference and the call will be handled in the same manner Further information regarding the background to the 112 number.

A full list of the EU countries where 112 is accessible is below: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

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OVE R FIF T Y Y EA R

1965

1966

1967

1968

1969

1970

John Monahan

Máire Caitríona Ní Dhomhnaill / Mary Finn

Walter Hayes

George Andrew Reynolds

Luke Drury

Maria Edgeworth

1977

1978

1979

1980

1981

1982

Micheal Og O’Briain

Donald P McDonnell

Jervis Good

Karen Ruddock

Catherine Conlon

Martynn Sheehan

1989

1990

1991

1992

1993

1994

Grace O’Connor, Sinead Finn

Anna Minchin-Dalton

Barry O’Doherty, Daniel Dundas

Elizabeth Dowling, Jean Byrne R.I.P.

Donal Keane, Rodger Toner

Jane Feehan

One of the things that always strikes me when I come back is the creativity of young Irish students. It is really exceptional. It just creates an atmosphere of creativity and a little bit of competition. It allows students interested in science to get motivated and get involved at an early age.

2001

2002

2003

2004

Shane Browne, Peter Taylor, Michael O’Toole

David Michael O’Doherty

Adnan Osmani

Ronan Larkin

JOHN MONAHAN YOUNG SCIENTIST OF THE YEAR 1965

60 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

2009

2010

2011

John D. O’Callaghan, Liam McCarthy

Richard O’Shea

Alexander Amini

S O F INNOVATION

1971

1972

1973

1974

1975

1976

Peter Short

Seán Mac Fheorais

Tadgh Begley

Richard Elliott

Noel Boyle

Mary Kelly-Quinn

1983

1984

1985

1986

1987

1988

William Murphy, Gareth Clarke, Turan Mirza

Eoin Walsh

Ronan McNulty

Breda Maguire, Niamh Mulvaney

Emma Donnellan, Henry Byrne

Siobhan Lanigan O’Keeffe

1995

1996

1997

1998

1999

2000

Brian Fitzpatrick, Shane Markey

Elsie O’Sullivan, Rowena Mooney, Patricia Lyle

Ciara McGoldrick, Emma McQuillan, Fiona Fraser

Raphael Hurley

Sarah Flannery

Thomas Gernon

2005

2006

2007

2008

Patrick Collison

Aisling Judge

Abdusalam Abubakar

Emer Jones

It is a great platform for students to stand up and express their opinions, and it increases your confidence in being able to do this on any stage

CATHERINE CONLON YOUNG SCIENTIST OF THE YEAR 1981

2012

2013

2014

Eric Doyle, Mark Kelly

Ciara Judge, Emer Hickey, Sophie Healy-Thow

Paul Clarke

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AS AN RDS MEMBER YOU CAN HELP TO MAKE IRELAND A BETTER PLACE W

hen you become a member of the RDS, you aren’t just joining one of Ireland’s oldest and most beautifullyappointed clubs. You’re also adding your energy and inspiration to a philanthropic organisation which has been promoting agriculture, industry, science and the arts since 1731.

In 1750 we set up the Drawing School which became the National College of Art and Design. In 1843 we opened the Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin. In 1868 we held our first annual Horse Show. In 1877 we donated the land and collections that formed the National Library and the National Museum. We instigated Ireland’s premier scientific award, the Boyle Medal, in 1899.

The kinds of projects we’re involved with today are no less wide-ranging.

Our Student Art Awards support promising early-career visual artists.

The RDS Primary Science Fair showcases the scientific achievements of 3000 primary school students. The RDS Music Bursary Award gives €10,000 annually to enable a gifted young musician pursue his or her career.

We could go on. And, with your help, we will.

The RDS is now welcoming new members. If you join us, you’ll get access to our magnificent Members’ Club facilities. You’ll get to enjoy the many benefits of our vibrant membership programme, including free entry to the annual Dublin Horse Show. And you’ll get the opportunity to make your own contribution to the future economic and cultural development of our country.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT

RDS MEMBERSHIP P L E A S E C A L L M A R Y D O N N E L LY ON (01) 240 7296 OR EMAIL members@rds.ie MEMBERSHIP PER ANNUM - €380

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Time

BT Arena

World of Robots

Thursday 8th January

Concert Hall

Area 15

09.45 10.00

Joe and Roney Show

10.15

Drumming Workshop

10.30 10.45

World of Robots W5 - Light Fantastic

11.00 11.15 11.30

Titan the Robot

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

World of Robots

11.45 12.00 12.15

Joe and Roney Show

12.30

World of Robots

12.45 13.00

Titan the Robot World of Robots

13.15

Stellar Adventures 3D

13.30 13.45

Joe and Roney Show

14.00

World of Robots

14.15 14.30

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Titan the Robot World of Robots

14.45 15.00 15.15

W5 - Light Fantastic

15.30 15.45 16.00

World of Robots Joe and Roney Show Drumming Workshop

16.15 16.30 Facebook.com/BTYSTE

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www.btyoungscientist.com 63

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Time

BT Arena

09.45

Titan the Robot

World of Robots

Concert Hall

Area 15

World of Robots

10.00 10.15 10.30

Friday 9th January

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Joe and Roney Show

10.45 World of Robots

11.00 11.15

Titan the Robot

11.30 11.45 12.00

World of Robots W5 - Light Fantastic

12.15 12.30 12.45

World of Robots Titan the Robot

13.00 Stellar Adventures 3D

13.15 13.30

Joe and Roney Show

World of Robots

13.45 14.00 14.15

Titan the Robot

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

World of Robots

14.30 14.45 15.00

Joe and Roney Show

15.15 15.30 15.45

World of Robots W5 - Light Fantastic

16.00 16.15 16.30 64 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

Drumming Workshop

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Time

BT Arena

09.45

Joe and Roney Show

World of Robots

Concert Hall

Area 15

World of Robots

10.00 10.15 10.30

Saturday 10th January

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Titan the Robot

10.45 World of Robots

11.00 11.15

Reuben

11.30 11.45 12.00

Joe and Roney Show

World of Robots

12.15 12.30 12.45

W5 - Light Fantastic World of Robots

13.00

Stellar Adventures 3D

13.15 13.30

Titan the Robot

13.45 World of Robots

14.00 14.15 14.30

Stellar Adventures 3D

Drumming Workshop

Joe and Roney Show

14.45 World of Robots

15.00 15.15 15.30

Drumming Workshop Titan the Robot

15.45 16.00

World of Robots

16.15 16.30 Facebook.com/BTYSTE

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www.btyoungscientist.com 65

THE BT YOUNG SCIENTIST BUSINESS BOOTCAMP A number of the exhibiting intermediate and senior students from the 2015 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition will be invited to take part in one of two BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamps next March where they will experience the world of technology commercialisation and entrepreneurship.

We have created two different programmes; one in Dublin and one in Belfast - to provide a critical link in the innovation process to provide our young scientists with commercialisation skills to carry forward into their careers and lives. The bootcamps will be held at University College Dublin (UCD) and at Queens University Belfast (QUB).

Expanding Business Leadership

See some of the comments from our class of 2014.

As an extension of BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition the BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamps have enabled BT to take a national leadership role in economic development. BT is collaborating with key private and public-sector organisations to create an opportunity to mentor the next generation of Irish innovators and entrepreneurs.

I just wanted to say thank you so much for an absolutely fantastic week! You all couldn’t have been better to us, it was a truly fantastic experience. It has definitely changed my perspective on what I would like to do with my life ...

Probably one of the most life-beneficial experiences I’ve ever had! So thank you so much for making it all possible and for making it the fantastic, enjoyable experience that it was.

Igniting Entrepreneurial Spirit We at BT believe that the BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamps help to bridge the gap between the worlds of education and business and mentor the next generation of young innovators and entrepreneurs. Bridging this gap is critical and urgent if Ireland is to be a competitive player in the global economy.

I found it was such an incredible experience, learning skills which I know I will take with me and utilise in anything and everything I undertake for the rest of my life.

The 2014 Bootcamp was captured on film

http://www.btyoungscientist.com/media-centre/ video-library/2014-Video/239

in association with NovaUCD 66 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015

In conjunction with Queen’s University Belfast

9:41 AM

100%

DOWNLOAD OUR NEW MOBILE APP The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, organised and delivered by BT since 2001, encourages science, technology, engineering and maths skills in Irish school children. Get all the latest information about the exhibition, events and updates direct to your mobile, absolutely free!

Features include: Exhibition Map, Getting Here, Search Student Projects, Schedule of Events, Social Network, Awards, History, Past Winners, Photo Gallery and more...

Available on Apple iOS (iPhone, iPad) and Google Android devices

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BT is the world’s oldest communications company with a direct line of descent from the first national telecommunications undertaking in the world. Incorporated in 1846, it was the first anywhere to develop a nationwide communications network exploiting leading edge telegraphy technology. Within ten years an international network had been developed, making communications possible within minutes and hours instead of days and weeks. The consequences for every aspect of society were dramatic and profound.

and technology is more central to BT’s business than ever before as it builds on the foundation of the digital era to create the information age.

Innovation - the combination of technical know-how and commercial acumen becomes even more crucial in a competitive world.

BT has gone on to become one of the world’s leading communications services companies.

IN THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND, BT HAS GROWN FROM A CHALLENGER BRAND TO A HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL COMPANY WITH A BREADTH OF SERVICES THAT WE BELIEVE IS UNRIVALED.

We operate the 999/112 emergency call answering service on behalf of the Irish State, connect ATMs for banking institutions, build networks for other communications companies, process millions of transactions through our data centres, train thousands in our ICT Training Centre – and the list goes on.

its very own TV sports channels, covering sports such as soccer, rugby, motorsport and more.

Irish rugby legend Brian O’Driscoll joined BT Sport as a rugby presenter in 2014.

AND THEN THERE IS...

Our role in the community We’re committed to using the power of communications to create a better future – from connecting people digitally, to making sure BT does more environmental good than harm, to using our skills and technology to support good causes.

OVER THE PAST YEAR, BT VOLUNTEERS SPENT 1,860 work days SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES AND CHARITIES, ACROSS THE ISLAND OF IRELAND. Our biggest event is the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, which we’ve been proud to organise for the past 15 years.

In Northern Ireland, we continually lead the way in bringing exciting new services to our customers - everything from TV to high speed fibre broadband to IT services for some of the largest organisations in the market.

BT, Grand Canal Plaza, Upper Grand Canal Street, Dublin 4, Ireland.

Tel: 1800 924 362 Email: youngscientist@bt.com BT, Riverside Tower, 5 Lanyon Place, Belfast BT1 3BT, Northern Ireland.

Tel: 0800 917 1297 Email: youngscientist@bt.com