Students present science projects to seniors

Display topics related to electricity and magnetism

Laura Emerson/ViewLummis Elementary School fourth-grade students Kylie Staudenmaier, left, and Payton Leak join other students in setting up one of the science project displays for an event at the Atria Seville retirement apartment complex, 2000 N. Rampart Blvd., April 28. Advertisement

A small group of about 20 Lummis Elementary School fourth-grade students took a field trip late last month to share their science knowledge with a community outside their school campus.

After a brief walk from Lummis, 9000 Hillpointe Road, the students entered Atria Seville, an all-senior residence, to present their findings on recent science projects related to electricity and magnetism. A handful of seniors waited in the residence's lobby, and tri-fold display boards rested on tabletops in front of a black piano and fireplace.

"For these young fourth-graders to think of these different projects, judging will be difficult," resident Irene Vladuchick said.

In all, there were seven science projects, each with pieces of colorful paper bordering the explanations of scientific methodology used by the students. Displayed projects included "To Glow or Not to Glow," "Ecstatic About Static," "Electrifying Circuits," "Series vs. Parallel," "Mega Magnets," "Get Cha Motor Running" and "Are You Smarter Than a Fourth Grader?"

The students used everyday objects, including table lamps, sound buzzers, batteries and wires, to demonstrate their hypotheses.

All the while, Atria's residents trickled in and watched the events unfold. Occasionally, they made a comment or two.

"I think it gives them a chance to interact with the elderly," fourth-grade teacher Julie Martinec said.

Martinec also said completing projects like these and then presenting them helps her students with higher-level thinking.

Atria's activities assistant Shannon Bagus and Vladuchick deliberated about the projects. Each group received a trophy with two stars shooting out from the base for its presentation, but the first-place winner was the "Are You Smarter Than a Fourth Grader?" group.

After the awards were given out, the students were treated to refreshments from Atria Seville. They also mingled with the residents.

Fourth-graders Gabby Gijone and Emely Garcia said they enjoyed the experience because they were able to meet new people and get out of their school campus for a bit.

Contact View education reporter Laura Emerson at lcarroll@viewnews.com or 380-4588.