It’s time for the annual Science and Engineering Fair, and all 3rd – 12th graders across the ASU Prep network are encouraged to participate in order to showcase their imagination, innovation, and wonder about the world around us!
ASU Prep Digital organizes this special event and lead Science teacher, Brooke Toon, is instrumental in making it a success. Thanks to her relentless efforts, ASU Prep Digital was awarded grant money from Arizona State University and other benefactors whose generous funding provides for participant shirts and awards, as well as a student project fund that aids students with necessary supplies for their projects.
From curious kids to future scientists
ASU Prep’s innovative K–12 curriculum is committed to preparing students for college, careers, and life. The Science and Engineering Fair is a perfect fit with a project-based approach to learning that enhances STEM education and fosters creativity and curiosity. The previous fair welcomed more than a hundred participants showcasing their innovative projects, and the organizers are hoping to match or surpass that this year. For younger students, involvement in the fair is often about nurturing an innate interest and curiosity while encouraging STEM skills through project-based learning. For older students, it’s about fostering innovation and encouraging them to pursue their STEM career goals and possibly, an opportunity to earn a college scholarship.
Preparing for the fair
The fair is divided into four divisions: Lower Elementary (3rd–4th), Elementary (5th–6th), Junior (7th–8th), and Senior (9th–12th). Project categories vary based on division but include animal sciences, behavioral and social sciences, cellular and molecular biology, physics and astronomy, and engineering. To participate, students must submit a proposal for their project idea and then have through February to prepare. The fair is held virtually, allowing students to record their presentations in a variety of ways, from Google Slides to video editing apps. The uploaded projects are then evaluated by three separate staff members who don’t know the others’ scoring. Winners are announced during an award ceremony in late February, with the top projects moving on to compete at the state level in April.
Fostering innovation and exploration
Through initiatives like the Science and Engineering Fair, the entire ASU Prep community continues to foster a learning environment that encourages students to explore, innovate, and push the boundaries of their knowledge. ASU Prep Digital Principal Dr. Robert Streibel recalls a project that he says truly demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and creativity: a student inspired by a sibling’s medical condition studied the dissolution of over-the-counter medications with the goal of figuring out what would work best.
We are excited to see this year’s budding scientists’ and engineers’ innovative projects that demonstrate creativity in STEM education.
If you’d like to learn more about the Science and Engineering Fair, there will be information sessions on October 25 & 30 and November 2 & 8. Contact Mrs. Toon for more information.
