Annual Science Expo Winners Announced

May 7

Central Catholic announced the winning projects from its annual Science Expo, which took place April 20. More than 50 Honors Biology and Chemistry students presented their research projects to faculty, staff, and students, and 20 junior high students from OLPH, St. Joseph's Sylvania, and St. Patrick of Heatherdowns also participated in the expo. Several alumni served as judges for the projects.

This is a research-based science expo rather than an experiment-based science fair. The students came up with their own topic and expo question, and then they researched articles and scientific studies about the topic. The judges graded them on the topic they researched, how thoroughly they researched the subject, and their interview.

“The science expo gives students a chance to actually do science instead of just learning about it,” said Lyanna Buser, chemistry and biology teacher. “They get to explore something they’re interested in and use real data and studies to try to answer a question. It makes the learning more meaningful and helps them see how science works in the real world.

“I hope this experience helps them build confidence in thinking for themselves, in asking good questions, looking at evidence, and drawing conclusions. More than anything, I want them to see that they’re capable of tackling complex problems, even when there isn’t a perfect answer.”

CCHS winners of the Science Expo:

Scored Judging

Henry Hartman
Sandra Horrigan
Amya Palmer
Anna Ryan
Amelia Yarder

AP Judges Choice Award

Sandra Horrigan

External Judges Choice Award

Jeff Tyburski

Staffulty Choice Award

Henry Hartman

Peer Choice Awards

Rebecca Chowdhary
Ben Clark

The junior high students were invited to participate in the expo to give them a preview of high school-level academics, provide a regional science fair experience, and recognize their hard work and achievements.

Junior High Winners