Aspiring young scientists from across Western Colorado gathered at The Eureka! McConnell Science Museum on March 12 for the annual elementary science fair. The event featured nearly 80 projects, each demonstrating creativity, curiosity, and a hands-on approach to scientific exploration.
Encouraging Hands-On Learning
“I think it’s important because this gets students hands-on and engaged in the scientific process,” said Joely Anysz, science fair coordinator. Some schools incorporated the fair into their science curriculum, while many students chose to participate voluntarily, driven by their own curiosity and interest in discovery.
Diverse and Innovative Projects
Students began their projects with hypotheses, carefully testing different variables while keeping constants in check. Many participants dedicated months to refining their experiments, ensuring accurate results.
Among the showcased projects:
- The effect of nitrogen on compost temperature – Exploring how different levels of nitrogen influence decomposition.
- How butter quantities affect cookie outcomes – Testing the impact of ingredient variations on baking results.
- The influence of music on mood – Investigating how different genres of music affect emotions and behavior.
Recognition for Scientific Achievement
The fair concluded with an award ceremony, celebrating students for their dedication, creativity, and scientific rigor. Organizers praised the participants for their enthusiasm and hard work, emphasizing the importance of fostering a love for science at an early age.
With another successful year in the books, educators and students alike look forward to future discoveries and the continued growth of young scientific minds in Western Colorado.
