Igniting Scientific Sparks from Science Roadshow Visit

TheBoys' School recently had the privilege of hosting the Science Roadshow, an exciting event that brought a burst of fresh motivation and inspiration to our Year 7–8 students in the midst of their Science Fair projects. As the students were just beginning their science inquiries, selecting their topics, and conducting tests, the roadshow couldn't have come at a better time to ignite their curiosity and enhance their investigations.

The event was made even more special with a surprise visit from local Member of Parliament Mr David Seymour. Mr Seymour's background in science, having worked as an engineer before entering politics, added an extra element of excitement amongst the boys. His presence served as a reminder that a passion for science can lead to incredible career opportunities.

To kick off the Science Roadshow, the students engaged in a presentation titled ‘Mighty Materials’. Through crazy experiments with surprisingly simple explanations, our boys delved into the intricate physical and chemical attributes of substances like metals and fabrics, leading to recognition of their practical application in our daily lives.

The students then had the opportunity to interact with the various exhibits set up around the hall. Each exhibit was accompanied by a context board, providing valuable information on how to engage with it, the underlying scientific principles, and real-life applications. Our Science Monitors from the school acted as student explainers, assisting their peers with the exhibits.

In the subsequent presentation, ‘Sounding Out Waves’, the students embarked on an exploration of sound's fundamental characteristics, encompassing pitch, volume, velocity, and the mediums through which they traverse. This hands-on experience not only helped them understand sound waves better but also sparked their curiosity about the fascinating world of acoustics and how physics relates to hearing.

The Science Roadshow left a lasting impact on our students, invigorating their passion for science and providing them with a fresh perspective on their own Science Fair projects. With newfound motivation and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts, the Year 7-8 students are now equipped to continue their investigations with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.

Unleashing the Power of the Brain

Our Year 2 boys recently embarked on an enlightening journey of self-discovery as they delved into the fascinating world of neuroscience. Neuroscientist Ms Sheryl Tan paid a visit, offering valuable insights into the power of the brain. Building upon their previous knowledge, the boys eagerly absorbed new information about the intricate workings of their most complex organ.

During the presentation, the boys were captivated by various demonstrations and activities. They learned about the intricate connection between the eyes and the brain in the process of writing as they traced a star while observing themselves in a mirror. This exercise showcased the remarkable collaboration between visual perception and the brain's motor control.

The boys were introduced to apraxia, a neurological disorder impacting movement coordination, which reinforced the concept of hand-eye coordination. They also explored the protective function of the skull by examining brain and skull models, gaining awareness of the risks associated with head injuries.

Dominant and non-dominant hands were discussed, challenging the boys to button and unbutton a shirt using each hand individually. This task highlighted the brain's adaptability in controlling movements and the difficulties posed when one has to rely on the non-dominant hand.

The immersive experience left a lasting impression on the Year 2 boys, equipping them with newfound knowledge about the remarkable potential of their brains. As they continue to grow and learn, they will carry this understanding, unlocking the full capabilities of their extraordinary minds.