Viruses and Pandemics
Year 8 LEAP Students Explore Ciruses and Pandemics at Quantum Victoria
During Week 9 of Term 1, Year 8 LEAP students visited Quantum Victoria for an engaging experience focused on viruses and pandemics through the simulation "The Viral Enigma."
In teams, they developed skills in simulations and algorithmic thinking without relying on numbers or calculations. Students explored how viruses infect individuals, spread among populations, and affect the world.
They gained insights into the infection process within cells, dispelling misconceptions about infectious diseases, and enhancing their understanding of pathogenic conditions and treatments. This program equipped them with essential knowledge about the impact of viruses on human health in today's interconnected society.
Ms Maria Lelekakis
The Viral Enigma Excursion took place on Friday, March 28th. During the excursion, we visited Quantum Victoria to attempt to cure a virus known as the “Q Virus.” Upon arrival, we tested a zombie simulator under different conditions to help stop the spread of zombies, such as vaccination, avoidance, and isolation. This activity was particularly enjoyable, as we discovered that vaccination was the most effective strategy.
After the activity, we had a short recess break before we began learning about DNA. We answered questions about how the DNA is structured and how it operates. We then attempted to crack the code by analysing the colours on a DNA model. This activity was very engaging, as I learned lots of new things about DNA.
After lunch, we began our final activity which was a box puzzle. We aimed to save the world by curing the Q Virus. We were divided into groups of four or five and dressed up in hazmat suits. We solved puzzles with a cube, racing to save the world. In my opinion, this was my favourite task, as it was both fun and challenging.
Overall, the experience was very enjoyable, as it offered something new and exciting.
Liam
Last Friday, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Viral Enigma excursion at Quantum Victoria. It was an exciting day that combined learning with fun while encouraging us to think critically and work collaboratively.
During the excursion, I participated in three activities: figuring out the best method to prevent a zombie apocalypse from spreading, learning more about cells, and working in teams to decode the code of a cube, a task designed to 'save the world'. These activities were interactive and thought-provoking, and I enjoyed collaborating with my classmates to overcome the challenges we faced.
One of the most memorable moments for me was the final activity: solving the code of the cube. Working with my group (Prakasha, Akshita, Evan, and Farrah) was a definite highlight. I found this activity both entertaining and memorable, with the cube itself being my favourite part.
I learned so much during the excursion, including how viruses work and the importance of collaboration in solving complex problems. These insights gave me a better appreciation of how teamwork and critical thinking are essential when tackling global issues.
What surprised me most was the difficulty of managing a pandemic and the innovative methods used to understand how viruses spread. It was fascinating and enlightening to see how even minor changes can have a significant impact on outcomes. Overall, the Viral Enigma excursion was an amazing experience that combined education, creativity, and teamwork in the best possible way. It’s a day I’ll always remember.
Audrey
During the Viral Enigma excursion, I participated in a series of activities that not only taught me knew things but also tested my technical skills, problem solving skills and teamwork skills. Throughout the excursion my class and I were assigned the roles of scientists who were tasked to find a cure for a “Zombie Virus.” During the day we indulged in three different activities which reflects scenarios if a real virus where to outbreak in our society.
In the first activity my partner and I explored a zombie simulator which demonstrates how a virus spreads during a pandemic. We analysed different precautions and observed how certain actions would fasten or slow down the spread of the virus.
The second activity took place in a lab where we watched a sequence of videos which broadened our knowledge on DNA and organelles. We were then tasked to decode a scrambled DNA strand which created a passage when it was descrambled.
Our final task our mission was to ‘save the world.’ We formed groups and were given a hazmat suit and high-tech LED boxes which had certain puzzles that we had to complete. Solving these puzzles brought scientist we were working with closer to discovering a cure.
The final activity was my favourite, as I was able to work with my friends on a series of challenging puzzles and games. These puzzles tested our ability to stay calm under pressure, recognise certain patterns within the puzzle and work together effectively.
Overall, this excursion taught me to carefully analyse the tasks I am given, how to efficiently and effectively work as a team and to apply any feedback given to me to improve.
Arianne
On the 28th of March, we went to a college to participate in the viral enigma. When we first arrived, we were brought to our lockers for the day and brought us to a private room were they showed us how a virus can spread people to people through a zombie virus simulation. Then we were thought on how to analyse DNA of virus. Afterwards, we played a fun minigame where we did a puzzle on putting the correct colours in the correct position.
I enjoyed the minigame as it was fun to experience the story and cracking our brains to complete the puzzle. Overall the excursion was a really fun experience and I was surprised by how clean and renovated the place was. I am really grateful to be able to participate in the Viral Enigma excursion.
Zander