Primary school pupils showcase science project works

Primary school is where children begin to ask fundamental questions, like: Why does rain fall and sun shine? Why does ice melt? Why do aeroplanes fly? Why do plants grow? Why do objects float in water? And many other funny, yet interesting questions.

This is the right time when science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education should be introduced into their curriculum and extracurricular activities to help them understand these things and contribute to their development.

STEM education has been something mostly reserved for secondary school and tertiary education students. Hardly is it something that teachers and parents think primary pupils can understand, love, or even participate in.

But the teachers and students of Mid-line British School in Akobo, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, do not think that STEM education is only for teenagers and adults. They recently demonstrated this through a science project that produced many wonderful works.

The Head of School of Mid-line British School, Oluwadamilola Christiana Fagbure, said the science project and exhibition were organised to promote creativity, critical thinking, and practical learning among the pupils.

“The event provided an avenue for the children to showcase their scientific knowledge, research skills, and hands-on projects while building their confidence in public presentation and teamwork,” she said.

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As a child, do you think you can build a car, an aeroplane, a house, a bridge, a phone, a shoe, or even make a dress or paint an artwork? Whatever you think you can build, create, make or paint, you are right and you can easily find the materials around your house or school to do it in a fun and easy way with the help of your teachers or parents.

Science projects for pupils turn abstract ideas into experiences they can see, touch, measure, and explain. It helps children to investigate rather than to memorise. It strengthens their literacy and numeracy skills. It introduces them earlier to secondary school science subjects like integrated science, introductory technology, physics, chemistry, biology, geography, and engineering.

Every activity becomes stronger when paired with scientific vocabulary. Words such as cell, atom, chemical, laboratory, reaction, atmosphere, environment, photosynthesis, energy, friction, force, absorb, dissolve, evaporate, and should be regularly used around pupils.

When pupils work in small groups, they celebrate mistakes as learning evidence rather than failure. They are proud and feel the ownership of their work.

Mid-line British School’s Head of School, Fagbure, stated that the science exhibition was a success as the pupils displayed remarkable creativity, enthusiasm, and understanding of various scientific concepts.

“Parents, guests, and members of the school community were highly impressed by the level of preparation and the quality of the projects presented. The event further strengthened the pupils’ interest in science and encouraged experiential learning beyond the classroom,” she added.

Fagbure said they are proud of the achievements recorded during the exhibition and remain committed to nurturing future innovators and problem-solvers through quality education and engaging learning experiences.