More than 200 students displayed hands-on projects they developed throughout the second quarter, sharing their findings with nearly 700 younger students from across the campus.

The science fair gives students an opportunity to explore topics of interest while learning how scientists test ideas and solve problems. Students select their own topics and follow the scientific process, including forming a hypothesis, conducting tests, collecting data and drawing conclusions.

“The science fair is a fantastic opportunity for students to act like real scientists,” said Katie Gifford, a fifth-grade teacher at Canyon Rim. “They work all quarter long on their science projects, so it’s fun to see their finished projects and presentations. The younger students come to see the presentations, and everyone has a great time.”

Projects covered a range of concepts, including robotics, projectile launchers, plant growth, electricity generated from potatoes, slime experiments and turning milk into plastic.

Each project was displayed on a presentation board with photos, models and written explanations outlining the experiment.

One project tested which materials melt ice the fastest. After researching the topic, two students ran trials using sand, cat litter and mineral rock salt.

Their data showed mineral rock salt melted ice three to four minutes faster than the other materials.

Students presented their projects to judges and answered questions about their process and results.

Awards were given for first-, second- and third-place projects in multiple categories, recognizing scientific thinking and clear communication.

Nearly 700 pre-K through fourth-grade students attended the fair, giving younger learners a preview of projects they will complete in upper grades.