Killara Schools Partnership

Science Enrichment Workshops

Last week, we had two Science enrichment workshops for Year 3 students from Lindfield, Killara, Lindfield East, Gordon East and Beaumont Public School's. After a quick safety briefing and an introduction to some of the Killara High School student helpers, they dove into a series of experiments.

First, students watched a demonstration (from a safe distance) of green fire shooting from a large flask, in an instant it was gone. After which, many called for it to be done again. This time, most of the oxygen in the flask had been consumed, so instead of a dramatic flash there was a gentle flame hovering in the neck of the flask for a few seconds. 

Next, they made lava lamps in gas jars using vegetable oil, water, food colouring and antacid tablets. Coloured bubbles rose from the bottom and hovered in the middle of the vessel, before falling back into the coloured mass at the bottom. For many students this was their favourite activity of the day.

Finally, they constructed electric mazes using copper wire. Students learned that electricity needs a closed circuit to flow as they tried to navigate the maze without touching the side and switching on a lamp. The fastest time was 4 seconds, but most students managed it in under 20 seconds.

The students impressed us with their enthusiasm and diligence, and we are looking forward to seeing Year 4 girls from our partner primary schools next term.

David Aubusson

Science Head Teacher