Gr. 8 Science Fair Projects

By: Grade 8 Teachers Mr. Britt and Mrs. Dombroski

Entering into the Senior School can be a big change for the Grade 8’s here at York House. The expectations with new schedules, teachers and classes can be overwhelming. Upon entering the Senior Science wing the Grade 8’s come to terms with what is expected of them. From class work, homework to scantron tests and quizzes – the year moves quickly.

One of the major projects the Grade 8’s were involved in from September to December this year was investigating Life Sciences and the Scientific Method. In alignment with BC’s Year of Science, each of our Grade 8’s have developed a unique science fair project. They have completed numerous proposals, gone through many drafts and have created a presentation which involved a rigorous cross-examination by their peers.

Some of the topics explored included: caffeine’s effect on the body, brain and memory functions, acids and bases, fungal growth, friction and planes, and many others!! Some of the projects will be displayed in the Science Wing this term, please stop and take a look.

All the Grade 8’s deserve to be congratulated on their hard work and diligence in their science investigations! The Regional Science Fair is coming up and we look forward to refining some of the projects even further.

YHS Finishes Third @ Kwantlen Science Challenge

YHS placed third at Kwantlen Science Challenge
YHS placed third at Kwantlen Science Challenge

From: Shirley Lu, Grade 12

On November 23rd, our YHS team of seven (Brianna, Grace, Shirley, Nicole, Emilie, Caitlin, Gr. 12, and Jennifer Gr. 11 ) led by Mr. Riendl, placed 3rd among 28 high schools from BC at Kwantlen Science Challenge, dominating both biology and chemistry events – the first time YHS has ever entered the top three at the challenge!

The competition consisted of intense laboratory activities in biology, chemistry, engineering design, mathematics, and physics. Scores were awarded based on successful solutions to design problems, clear demonstration of experimental techniques, and correct use of data and calculations to draw conclusions.

Despite tough competition the YHS team confronted in the design challenge, the team managed to reclaim the lead in later events with strong teamwork and solid command of scientific procedure and knowledge. As the only all-girls schools at the event, the members demonstrated exceptional performance and true York House spirit.

A huge thank you to Mr. Riendl, who contributed his unreserved support in preparing the team for the challenge. The team wouldn’t have done it without you!

Congratulations to all team members, and we hope to take home greater achievement next year!