Science Fest

The Yellow Train Science Fest took place on the 11th March 2023. In this post, we speak to our science teachers to learn more about the intent behind the festival.

Q1. How did the idea for the science fest come about?

We were exploring how to bring experiential learning with the children. The first experiment was on the theme of pyrotechnics during the festival of Diwali. Seeing the children’s enthusiasm, we wanted to take it across school. So we decided to have an entire festival on the theme of sustainability because that’s a pressing issue the world is facing. 

Q2. What was the process?

The children came up with ideas on what they wanted to do. We asked them challenging questions to delve into the topic feedback. There was both teacher and peer feedback. We conducted a couple of dry runs where teachers from across the school could see these projects and answer questions. What also helped was having juniors visit projects of senior classes. This meant that the children had to explain things in a language that was simple and common - this ensured that they really understood the topic. 

Q3. Can you comment on the range of the projects that came about?

There was both teacher and peer feedback. We wanted to expand the scope of science beyond physics, chemistry and biology. So we also worked with psychology and technology. 

Children powered a monitor using a cycle, they created a waste segregation robot, looked at mental health in the context of sustainability and also conducted experiments on the theme of social conformity. The children spent nearly two months on their projects, constantly working on feedback as well. This gave them an idea of the rigour required to practically apply what they learn in class. 

More than the projects that came out, it was the process that really met the children. They worked in groups, critiquing each other. There was great learning in that. 

Q4. Any closing comments?

As a teacher, it was heartening to see students take interest. What does it take to stick to an idea and follow it through? There’s a lot of failure when practically applying concepts. I had one student who wasn’t able to complete the project - there was no output. When I asked him if he was disappointed, he said that he learnt a lot and learnt things about problem solving and approaching things like an engineer. That was outstanding. When we give opportunities outside the classroom to students, it is not about the output but the process. 

In science it is not only about learning things that are there in the textbook but also doing things that children are passionate about. 

Science fest gives kids that opportunity. It is also an opportunity to show what kids are doing in science to parents across the school.