RED HOOK, Brooklyn (PIX11) — Experiments, robots and demonstrations filled the gym at Summit Academy Charter School in Red Hook, where students became teachers and scientists during a new day-long event.
The fair showcased projects focused on science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) and gave students the chance to explain their work directly to classmates at the exhibits.
In one corner of the gym, 11th graders Jaretzy and Wynter demonstrated how to extract DNA from strawberries. The experiment revealed the genetic blueprint inside the fruit. They explained that all living things, from berries to humans, contain DNA.
For the students presenting the project, the event was about more than just science.
“You get to meet new people and tell them how things work. It’s like you’re the teacher,” they said.
The event allowed students to showcase projects they created individually or in groups, many outside regular class time.
For Wynter, the experience was both educational and fun.
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“It’s fun. It’s hands-on and it’s really enjoyable,” she said.
Students also emphasized the power of science to inspire others. Luke Gadsden, another participant, said the goal is bigger than simply completing an experiment.
“It’s to see who can change the world,” he said. “There are multiple ways to get a message across from intellectual, entertaining — but the thing is it all comes back to that one message of how amazing science is.”
Around the gym, classmates stopped at different booths to watch experiments and ask questions.
Eighth grader Elijah Smith designed a robotic arm and used a 3-D printer to bring the device to life.
“Science is one of my favorite things. You get to experience new things and try out new things,” Elijah said.
Another popular station explored the relationship between music and studying. Eighth graders Mariam and Kenia conducted an experiment where participants took a test while listening to different types of music.
Their results suggested classical music helped students perform better.
“At low tempo, classical helps you focus better and block out distraction,” Kenia explained.
The enthusiasm for experimentation was exactly what school leaders hoped to see. Dr. Natasha Campbell, founder of Summit Academy Charter School, said exposing students to real-world science experiences can inspire future careers.
“Now that they’ve been exposed to it, they say, ‘I want to be a scientist. I want to do that.’ That’s what it’s about, they get the new opportunities,” Campbell said.
The program was part of Maker Faire, which encourages creative applications of STEAM learning.
It was the first and was inspired by a smaller science fair. With more students eager to build projects and share their work, organizers say another event is already being planned for next year.
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