Schools
Oakdale Patch Whiz Kid: Jordan Thompson
Transfiguration Catholic School eighth-grader Jordan Thompson won a blue ribbon for his science fair project on alternative energy, and is an alternate for the state contest.
Oakdale Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Jordan Thompson, Grade 8
School:
Accomplishment: Being selected as an alternate for the Minnesota State Science and Engineering Fair.
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When Transfiguration Catholic School eighth-grader Jordan Thompson was selecting his science fair project, he wanted something with a real-world application. Alternative energy—specifically hydroelectric and wind energy—sparked his interest.
“I thought these are continually growing energy sources and I thought, ‘Well, I want to see which would be the best choice to have energy and help the environment,” Jordan said.
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He built a windmill using a kit, and followed directions he found online to create his own hydroelectric system using simple materials. Then he wired them so he could test their energy output.
With the project, he took first place at his school's science fair, and then went onto the regional science fair in February. Jordan not only had to build his project, but he had to be able to present it to judges. Fourteen different judges stopped by his booth for explanations at the regional fair.
“You kind of get a little bit nervous, because you see some high school projects that are off the charts, and you see some in your age group that are off the charts,” he said, “but you just have to start focusing on your own and see how you’re going to succeed.”
For his efforts, Jordan got a blue ribbon and became an alternate to the state science fair. He also won awards from the American Meteorological Society and the American Council of Engineering Companies.
Not surprisingly, Jordan said his favorite subject in school is science, and he’d like to work in medicine, alternative energy or something else science-related in the future.
Outside of school, Jordan plays hockey through the Tartan Area Youth Hockey Association, baseball through the East Twins and soccer for his school.
Editor's Note: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the organization for which Jordan Thompson plays baseball.
