Science Is No Longer Considered a 'Dry' Subject

The annual science fair has been a longstanding tradition in the Mayfield school system. Assistant Principal Richard Glove said that unlike other years, 2011 was the first time all grades took part in a project that showcased their science activities throughout the year.

The response to this new schoolwide project was overwhelming. The parking lot was filled with interested spectators flocking see science in action. Student guides dressed in bright orange shirts directed a steady flow of parents, siblings, Hillcrest residents, media and corporate sponsors through a seemingly endless series of exhibits.

Visitors received a raffle ticket for each area, spurring them on to see and do as much as possible in a short time.

There was no direct competition, so each grade vied to outdo themselves. The earnest and smiling faces of the kindergarteners, first- and second--graders showed their understanding of the changing seasons, materials the Three Little Pigs might use, and the river habitat found in Gates Mills.

Terrariums and forces in motion were the hot topics for the third-graders, while the fourth- and fifth-graders had a catapult competition, owl pellet dissection or created paper helicopters to find out if weight affects the speed of an object.

The fifth-graders were also the youngest participants in a Science Olympiad open to students through 12th grade. Mrs. Fash helped prepare students to compete on invitational, regional and state levels.

The sixth grade turned tables, and asked the visitors to their area to take a computerized test to learn more about science.

Mouse trap-powered cars, submarines, and weather reports captured the interest of seventh-graders. Eighth-graders studied another kind of natural phenomenon, the earthquake. They were challenged to create structures of spaghetti, marshmallows and tape to support an egg in a simulated business environment.

High school students had intricate demonstrations involving all aspects of  science; from physics to biology. Rube Goldberg contraptions whizzed, sumo bots heaved, and life-size cardboard boats splashed and sank in front of a filled auditorium.

At the end Susan Beatty, director of curriculum, gave the closing remarks and thanked Rockwell Automation for its sponsorship. Winning raffle tickets were drawn. Everyone went home tired, but a bit more knowledgeable. Science was brought to life for everyone through the hard work and interest of students.