Science Fair

Last week, our family participated in our first Science Fair. This year, for science, Chase is studying Earth science and astronomy. When we began planning for the Fair, we were studying rocks and minerals, so we decided to do a project about iron. We found some instructions on the internet for removing the iron from breakfast cereals with a magnet. Very interesting!

After learning some facts about iron and Nutrition Facts labels we started our experiment. We made slurries with our three cereals (Total, Cheerios and Honey Smacks) by blending them with water. Then we poured the slurries into plastic cups with magnets attached to the side. We stirred the slurries and the little iron bits stuck to the side of the cup where the magnet was. It was really neat! The Total cereal gave us a sizeable chunk of iron. It's pretty amazing that we eat that stuff! We titled the project, "Nails for Breakfast?"

During the process, Chase learning about the scientific method and about how to organize information and prepare a presentation. Last Friday morning, we set up at the Science Fair and Chase was drilled by the judges. When we returned Friday night for the awards ceremony, Chase was given 2nd place for his project. Hooray Chase! He looked very proud and a bit shy as he accepted his ribbon in front of everyone.

The science project was pretty fun for all of us. It was hard for me to find the balance between guiding and teaching Chase during the process and taking over the whole project, but in the end, I think we did alright. All the other kids who entered projects in the Science Fair did a great job, too. Homeschooling is fun!