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Nov. 7, 2011—Eighth-graders weren’t scared to learn about
polymers, electrical conductivity and sublimation this
Halloween.
In fact, they enjoyed it.
“It was so much fun,” said Alexa Ahlers, an eighth-grader in Amy
Perillo’s science class.
Students rotated through a series of five mad-science
experiments under the direction of high-schoolers who are
members of the New York State Science Honor Society. They
created slime, identified skeletal remains and made observations
as society members fried a pickle, ignited a dollar bill without
it burning and conducted a series of experiments using dry ice.
“We’re doing this to show kids that science can be fun,” said
senior Corinne Skala.
Corinne, along with other society members, facilitated the labs,
answered questions and helped students make observations about
the experiments as well as complete worksheets.
“They did a great job—just like any regular teacher,” said
eighth-grader Kyle Hersh. “I learned a lot of new things.”
According to society co-advisor Paula Dellavilla, talking out
the science behind each of the experiments helps the older
students learn better too.
“It’s truly a commune of science across the generations,” said
Dellavilla.
Senior Cody Castiglia said it’s important to hone a child’s
interest at a young age—whether it’s in science or another
field.
“They’ll be asked what they want to do with their life every
year they’re in high school,” said Cody. “Anything we can do to
develop their interests or better their learning experience is a
good thing.”
He plans to pursue a degree in environmental conservation next
year.
The Halloween lab is just one example of the many ways members
help further the society’s mission to promote an interest in
science among students and within the community. The group
participates in a variety of activities throughout the year.
Membership also affords students the opportunity to apply for a
scholarship award.
In the past, the group offered a first-aid course, which was
open to the community, and created a recycling brochure to
promote the safe disposal of hazardous household chemicals.
To learn more about the state society, visit
http://www.stanys.org/honorsociety.htm.
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