For a group of Primary Six students at Rulang Primary School, it was something that they greatly looked forward to after the final examinatons. The Science Appreciation Workshop, organised by the School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE), was a two-day outreach event. Led by Prof Tan Lay Poh, a team which comprised of like-minded undergraduate students, graduate students and alumni came together to plan a series of science activities and hands-on experiments, with the aim of sparking the participants’ interest in science.
The experiments conducted covered topics on light, energy and magnetism, all of which had been taught in their primary school curriculum. The theory behind these concepts were brought to life through hands-on activities that the students participated in. As a result, students got an opportunity to exercise their observation, evaluation and investigation skills to apply scientific methods.
During the two-day event, participants got the chance to build their own Dye-sensitised Solar Cell, AC generator and motor. Common household items such as dye obtained from blackberries were used to enhance the relatability of science in students’ everyday lives.
Through these activities, the students got a better understanding of the concept of energy conversion and generation, and gained awareness of how science drives the technology that is so prevalent in their daily lives.
The highlight of the workshop was the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) activity, where students had the chance to play the role of a CSI agent. As CSI agents, students had to solve the mystery behind the death of Diana, through activities which included powder analysis, chromatography, fingerprint analysis and DNA analysis. The students’ analytical skills were put to the test to solve the crime, based on forensic analysis of the evidence found in the crime scene.
Volunteers from the scientific and engineering fields were also able to share to the young ones about their academic journey in engineering and the sciences. The students also learned about how the nature of scientific study can be very rewarding for inquisitive minds as well as those drawn to playing an integral role in building and innovating the future.
The crime scene investigation workshop let me have some experience in investigating real crimes. Instead of just watching TV. Doing it hands on is really fun!!
Rosie Zhong, a Primary 6 student from Rulang Primary School
About NTU School of Materials Science and Engineering
The School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) is one of the six schools under College of Engineering in NTU. Besides receiving an integrated science-driven and application-oriented engineering education at MSE, students are provided opportunities for character building through the Leadership Excellence Programme, which supports both local and overseas community work.
