This morning, sixth graders presented weeks’ worth of group research, experimentation, and data analysis during the Sixth Grade Experimental Design Fair in Hajjar Auditorium. Teams worked together to select a topic of interest, which required consensus and collaboration. Some of the questions delved deep into science (such as ice cream melting points, how electrolytes affect a runner’s speed, and which liquids produce the best results for popping boba), while others had an engineering bent (for example, topics involving electromagnetics and hydraulics), explained Sixth Grade Science Teacher Ms. Makohon-Moore. Several groups played time-lapse videos as part of their presentations, including Jason X. ’32, Emerson C. ’32, and Sebastian H. ’32, who built a cardboard hydraulic claw made to test their experiment about the power of water. Another group, composed of Maya P. ’32, Gracyn S. ’32, and Ella C. ’32, tested diaper absorbency because they wanted to research a topic that would be helpful to parents. “Engaging in the scientific process not only builds essential skills like critical thinking and problem-solving, but also fosters curiosity, perseverance, and a deeper understanding of the world around us,” said Ms. Makohon-Moore. Amazing work, sixth graders!