The crazy world of science exploded in front of pupils at Ashburton Borough School last week during a visit by a team from Science Alive.
It was part of their Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programme.
Pupils took part in an hour long programme of Curiosity in Science – Big reaction to Fire and Ice.
Science Alive outreach manager Bryon Fischner said the programme encouraged pupils to experiment, ask questions, make hypothesis and draw conclusions.
STEM educator Sion Davis said the programme was designed to make science fun and provided special opportunities for pupils and encouraged them to keep learning.
‘‘We can do science experiments that are fun but that are outside what the schools are able to provide. For instance we use liquid nitrogen.
‘‘While the programme is for the kids, it helps lessons the teachers load while inspiring the kids,’’ Fischner said.
Some experiments, like testing PH levels, encouraged pupils to try at home. Others, like igniting nitrogen gas, were for viewing-only not trying at home due to the danger involved.
The Tait Foundation funds Science Alive to do outreach hands on education with pupils from year 0 to eight.
As well as classroom learning there are 300 free lessons available online. With the changes to the school science curriculum there is an emphasis on learning about our solar system.
Science Alive has a programme on understanding the solar systems.
‘‘The programmes we run are relevant to what students are learning in class and what is happening in the world’’ Fischer said.
Many of the pupils were enthusiastic about taking part in the experiments.
Others asked searching questions.
All the pupils left the demonstration keen to carry on experimenting and learning about science.
