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Budding young scientists put to the test at Illawarra Coal Regional Science Fair
An innovative science program aimed at inspiring school students to study science will be held at the University of Wollongong tomorrow (Wednesday 4 November).
The Illawarra Coal Regional Science Fair is an opportunity for primary and high school students from the South Coast, Illawarra, Southern Sydney, Campbelltown and Southern Highlands to research a topic of interest and showcase their findings to expert judges. The Science Fair aims to collaborate with teachers about the way science is taught in schools, inspire students to continue science study and consider careers in science.
Some of this year’s student investigations include -- Is Weather Forecasting Accurate?, Does Mozart Improve Memory? and Which Pencil Works Better?.
This year’s Science Fair has attracted a huge response with more than 420 students from 41 primary and high schools registered to present 294 scientific research projects. The young scientists will display the results of their own open-ended investigations to expert judges at the fair. The judges are a showcase of the diverse career options in science – and come from industry, research organisations, education departments, schools, media organisations, and the University of Wollongong.
During the lead up to the fair a team of science mentors -- enthusiastic science students from the University of Wollongong -- have been visiting schools to inspire students and provide practical advice on completing research projects to students and teachers.
Illawarra Coal Regional Science Fair co-ordinator Lisa Hutton from UOW’s Faculty of Science said the Science Fair was a fantastic opportunity for people to share their enthusiasm for science.
“The enthusiasm of the students and judges is quite infectious and it will be exciting to see the school students and judges discussing their passion for science during the event.”
Sponsors of the fair include Illawarra Coal (principal sponsor), Pfizer Australia, ANSTO, The Australian Society for Microbiology and Mister Ply & Wood.
MEDIA PLEASE NOTE
When: Wednesday 4 November from 9am to 4pm in the University Hall with 294 colourful projects on display for judging.
Times and events to note:
1.15pm to 2pm (McKinnon Building 67, Room 107) UOW Faculty of Science researcher and ARC Australian Professorial Fellow Bert Roberts will give a fascinating presentation to students and teachers about his involvement in the discovery of a previously undiscovered species of human - Homo floresiensis on the Indonesian island of Flores – one of the most important archaeological discoveries in recent history. He will also discuss his other work on the evolution, development and migration of mankind.
2pm to 3pm (McKinnon Building 67, Room 107) Student winners will be announced at an awards ceremony.
3pm to 4pm - Winning projects will be on display in the University Hall foyer.
For more information: Contact UOW Schools Liaison Officer Lisa Hutton on (02) 4221 3512 or 0431548 846.