Science pros display their knowledge to Mundelein students
Young scientists in the making at Mechanics Grove School and their parents recently got some help — and insight — from a variety of science professionals.
Students had worked hard to put together a gallery of science displays, showcasing their studies of various questions.
After the viewing of student work, people attended Science Hi-Jinks, where the keynote presentation was Kevin Keehn, who demonstrated the science of vortexes, and the difference among various lighter-than-air gases, as well as a human vacuum packing machine.
His explosive presentation style comes from his history as a veteran chemistry teacher, as well as Discovery Channel and NASA credits on his extensive resume.
His presentation was followed by hands-on breakout sessions, where participants could choose from a variety of science fields.
The local Lego Robotics club, Robo City, MAD Science, Abbott Labs and NASA were represented, and students participated in learning how “Scientists Ask the Right Questions.”
Several role models provided hands-on minds-on experiences for the participants during the three half-hour sessions, that included a wide variety of topics.
The topics ranged from investigating and extracting DNA to playing with a Van De Graff generator. Virtual pets were even spotted, as well as worms, as one worked their way around the school.
One of the most popular attractions was the study of nucleation sites with diet soda and Mentos candies.
A petrologist was on hand to show off the beauty in an extensive rock and mineral collection.