STEM News

Science Talent Search - Calling all budding scientists, programmers and engineers!

Last week, at least 70 students turned up for an initial meeting to find out more about the Science Talent Search. Several CSPS students have received awards and prizes in this competition over the past few years, including prizes for working models, computer games, and creative writing. Interest in STEM is certainly surging at our school!

The annual statewide competition is not for the faint-hearted however, and it does involve serious commitment. It also costs $9 per student to enter, with project entries due at the end of Term 2.

• Students work independently or with a partner to complete their own competition entry. Work needs to be completed outside of school, although limited support is provided by our STEM teacher if needed.
• Entries are restricted to particular topics and categories.
• Projects must show evidence of background research, and include photos/drawings, notes, and references.
• Entries need to communicate an idea or discovery about science or technology.

The schools’ theme this year is Species Survival: more than just sustainability and students can choose from one of the following categories:

• Creative Writing: choose from 4 (four) specific titles about species survival
• Scientific Research Poster: Choose from four (4) specific topics about species survival
• Working Models and Inventions: not restricted to the theme
• Experiments: not restricted to the theme
• Scientific Photography and Movies: not restricted to the theme
• Computer programs: not restricted to the theme
• Games (offline, not computers): not restricted to the theme

Talk to your student about this competition and discuss any ideas they may have. An application form will be provided to interested students early next week - this form must be completed, signed by the parent and student, and returned to Ms Patel. Only the most interesting (and manageable) project entries will be considered (no volcanoes or mentos/coke explosions please!). Students will be advised of their successful applications before the end of Term 1 and they can then start work on their projects. Payment will be requested at a later date.

Please contact Ms Patel for more information about our school STEM program.

Ms Patel

STEM Program Coordinator