Flinging Ping Pongs in Science Committee

Science Committee is an amazing experience for both Junior and Senior school students in which we explore all three major areas of science: Physics, Biology, and Chemistry. 

More than 60 students in the Senior School come together every fortnight in Week A to conduct experiments separate to those in class. The instant students and teachers walk into Science Committee, the joyful environment filled with smiles and laughter will always surround them, and it is such a precious experience to have.

In Week 1, we measured how far a ping pong ball could fly using triangle catapults built out of paddle pop sticks and rubber bands. It was an incredibly fun, and memorable afternoon that still explored the physics aspect of energy transformation from elastic energy in the rubber bands to kinetic energy.

Well, we can’t let the Senior School have all the fun now can we? Not to worry, the Junior School is not missing out as 30 students come together every Week B to carry out the same exciting experiments! The Junior Science Committee is facilitated by the fabulous committee captains, Griffith, and UQ STEM Ambassadors along with other members who volunteer to help.

In Week 2, we explored biology and chemistry by understanding plant leaves and how the many pigments inside can be separated using the technique of paper chromatography. Different coloured leaves were found around the school and the separation of pigments was seen due to capillary action. To explore chemistry and physics, we made cars using plastic bottles and milk caps in Week 3. 

The car moved due to the transformation of chemical energy into kinetic energy with the chemical reaction between vinegar and bicarb soda happening inside the car. We are yet to do this thrilling experiment with the Junior Science Committee, but a heartwarming and educational afternoon is bound to happen as the Senior and Junior school gather for an amazing experiment, support, and smiles between older and younger students.