Brains on tables, bridges being destroyed, electrical shocks, and even different uses for cola were all being investigated today as the West Kootenay Regional Science Fair takes place at L.V. Rogers Secondary.
Students (Kindergarten to Grade 12) from Rock Creek to Creston and Nakusp down to the border are invited to attend the event. This year, judges had to examine more than 85 entries.
“In each grade, there are three categories — experiment, research and innovation — so in each grade there’s opportunities for winning a medal,” explained Daphne Van Alstine, one of the co-chairs of the fair.
More than 30 volunteer judges are involved in assessing the projects. Winner will be announced later today.
“The judges are the people who get up early in the morning, come and we can’t do it without them. Some of the judges were as nervous as the kids,” said Van Alstine.
Along with the exhibit was a demonstration of the dangers of electricity, put on by Nelson Hydro. Students had the chance to see how electricity can travel through objects, including humans, thanks to a miniature display.
Also part of the showcase was the annual bridge building competition.
“You buy a kit, it costs you $5 and you need to build a bridge using 100 popsicle sticks and only the glue they give you,” explained Ann McDonnell, the other chair of the event.
“Then they put a hydraulic lift on it until it breaks. It will not survive.”
The bridge which can withstand the most pressure is declared the winner.
