Cannons Creek Independent School Grade 4-6 Science Expo was once again, a resounding success! From solar ovens to hydroponics, to batteries made from vegetables; to creating snowstorms in jars, researching ways to save water, and using seaweed to improve plant growth – there certainly was a wide variety of projects on show. “Thank you to all our parents for joining us and showing a keen interest in all the projects. The topics were specific, but we were thrilled with the impressive range of experiments that were presented. We are so proud of the confident way in which the pupils engaged with the range of the visitors to the Expo.” – Mrs Storey, Grade 5 Teacher.

An interested adult engages with Grade 5 learner Wyatt Hector’s Solar Oven project.

Grade 5 Jonny Baker stands with Raaqib Bardien and their project ‘How soot from ships affect the melting ice of the Artcic’

Learners were tasked with choosing an experiment that linked to their Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) theme for Term 1. The Grade 4 and 5’s had also integrated their English setwork book into the IBL theme. Over the past month, the IP learners embraced their roles as young scientists, engaging in a hands-on learning experience. They selected, researched, conducted, and presented experiments which culminated in a detailed board outlining the scientific method they followed and were ready to answer any questions.

“We couldn’t be prouder of the way they articulated their findings, reflecting a deep understanding and a growing set of 21st century skills.” – Mrs Alston, HOD: Intermediate Phase.

Grade 4 learner Paton Sharwood, accompanied by his mom Mrs Debbie Sharwood, stands with his self-watering plants project.

Grade 5 learners Katie Roets and Xia Walker posed the question ‘Which fake snow recipe best models real snow?’

Grade 4 learners Lea Dorasamy and Abigail Spencer investiaged what preserves food for longer.

Some comments from parents:

• “What a lovely evening it was. It was truly special to see the children’s ideas and hard work come to life. I especially enjoyed listening to them explain their projects in such detail. Their confidence, excitement, and understanding were inspiring. Well done!!” – Mrs Ricki-Lee Ball, parent.
• ” The Expo was just incredible! Seeing the children so proud of what they have produced, and eager to present their experiments was really lovely. Even the shyer ones were enthusiastically explaining their methods, results and conclusions – such an amazing experience for our children. The science experiments themselves were also fascinating – I definitely learnt a thing or two myself!” – Mrs Jeannette Clarke, parent.
• “It was so rewarding to see all the kids speaking so proudly and passionately about their experiments – it was clear this was a highlight for them all!” – Mrs Debbie Sharwood, parent.
• “What a fabulous display from confident, enthusiastic budding scientists. It’s a pity I’m not planning on building a soccer pitch in Antarctica, because I learned all sorts of things from which soil, grass and composting material is best and how fast things will melt with the various substrates! Well done to all.” – Cat Gay, parent.

Grade 4 learner Carter Ball investigated how the colour of light affects the growth of plants.

Grade 4 learner James September with his project entitled ‘How does the amount of sugar affect yeast growth?’

Grade 6 learners Scarlett Kooyman and Kaboentle Mathe – the lemon battery experts!

Grade 6 learner Charlie Duncan – knowledgeable about using potatoes as batteries.

Grade 6 learner Ismah Parker stands proudly with her project ‘Which kitchen waste product works best as a fertilizer?’

Grade 5 learner Thaakir Parker stands with his enthused parents Dr Whadi-ah Parker and Mr Rushdy Parker.