Although our objective in Pathfinder science is for our students ask great questions every single day, there is a certain rhythm to the year. One highlight for the past fifteen years has been the Science Expo, which will take place on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 6:00pm. 

The Science Expo shows off a variety of projects from our students in third grade through eighth grade. In 2010, the third graders produced working machines (a few of which shot projectiles—a perpetual fascination with young kids). Fourth graders had to figure out how to float a brick, albeit a small one. Our fifth grade students focused on health care and healthy living, partnering with friends at Munson Health Center to explore a variety of medical specialties: students wore their lab coats with pride and explained the details of cardiology, gastroenterology, pediatrics, oncology and other fields.

Middle school projects begin with the Sixth Grade Wax Museum, in which students research the work of famous scientists from Marie Curie to Isaac Newton to Rosalind Franklin. Students dress as their scientists and show examples of their work to visitors. Seventh graders conducted open experiments, each asking a question of personal interest and showing the results of their explorations. Eighth grade Pathfinder students create the rubrics for these projects, and, drawing upon their own experiences, assess the younger students’ projects.

Eighth graders traditionally build hovercrafts and give our youngest kids thrilling rides across the gym floor. In addition, Pathfinder alumni oversee science activity tables for our pre-schoolers and other early elementary students. Science Expo is truly an evening for kids of all ages.