The three-day spectacle began with a school-wide assembly where Science in Motion outreach worker Dan Alfano gave students a “bite-sized science” presentation.
“It went through the different kinds of sciences, likes physics and chemistry,” said Paulette Trottier, vice principal and Grade 2 teacher. The program engaged all the senses, she said. “You could see it, you could smell it, you could hear it.”
The third and final day of Science in Motion concluded with another school-wide assembly, this time with a focus on chemistry. After making water disappear, creating fire, and concocting “elephant toothpaste,” Alfano conducted the last and tastiest experiment.
Two students helped him make pop for the entire school by mixing juice crystals in water and adding dry ice to create carbonation. To ensure the pop had enough fizz, the two helpers were asked to seal their containers with a lid, but the task wasn’t as straightforward as it seemed.
Students laughed and screamed excitedly when pressure swelled from the gas bubbles and the container lids popped up in the air.
In addition to the assemblies, Alfano conducted a one-hour workshop with each class.
Teachers chose a workshop that related to a topic in their curriculum, said Trottier. Her students are learning about buoyancy and boats, so Alfano further explored this subject with her class.
“It’s amazing how much he can put in one hour,” she said. Alfano “demystifies science” and “the kids came out of it so excited about science and wanting to know more.”
During parent/teacher interviews last week, Trottier realized that the students’ science enthusiasm reached beyond the classroom.
“I personally saw 22 parents within a few days and most of them mentioned Science in Motion.”
The students are “top notch,” said Alfano. “Their enthusiasm and participation is incredible.” Eager youngsters stopped him constantly in the hallway with questions and comments.
At any given time during the school year, two outreach workers are on the road with Science in Motion. This is the program’s third time in Jasper.
“We were sponsored by the School Advisory Council,” said Trottier. “This is something that we find is really worthwhile.”
The goal is to bring back Science in Motion, hopefully within the next two years. The program successfully engages students and motivates continued interest in studying science.
“It’s turning them on to wondering.”
