Students will have an opportunity to show off their technical wizardry and scientific know-how early next month when the 2011 Frontenac, Lennox and Addington Science Fair (FLASF) celebrates its 40th anniversary, April 7 and 8.
FLASF is a non-profit organization that aims to promote creativity, ingenuity and an inquiry-based approach to learning among local youth.
The annual fair showcases science projects created by students in grades 5 and up. Participation in the Science Fair allows students to strengthen their math skills, to develop their reading and oral communication skills, and to enhance their creative problem-solving skills. More importantly, students participating in the regional Science Fair have the opportunity to have FUN with science!
This year’s 40th event takes place at Queen’s University in McArthur Hall and begins at 6:00 pm on April 7 with an announcement by Kingston’s Town Crier, Chris Whyman. The Fair is open to the public and visiting classes, on Friday April 8, from 10 am to 12 pm. Members of the public are also invited to attend a presentation by Canadian adventure educator and speaker Geoff Green, starting at 12:30 pm.
Geoff Green has been leading expeditions and adventures from Pole to Pole for the past two decades, and inspiring thousands around the world with his passion for the awe and wonder of Planet Earth. His presentation will be followed by the Awards Ceremony where cash and prizes are awarded to the top science fair projects. The five top winners will go on to the Canada Wide Science Fair, a week-long event held in Toronto this year.
The 2011 festival has attracted great support from local sponsors. As well, more than one hundred judges from the local science community have volunteered their time to meet students and review their projects. New this year, visitors and participants are eligible to win prizes donated by the Canada Science and Technology Museums Corporation. Also for the first time, many of FLASF’s community supporters will be presenting exhibits on our “student street” – an opportunity for the public to see how science happens in our community.
For more information about FLASF, please visit their website at: www.flasf.on.ca.
