Science in Sichuan

Alongside the science fair finalists from international schools in Shanghai, Beijing, Qingdao, and other parts of China, two groups formed by six of our students presented at the annual Sichuan Science Fair, held by our LifePlus partner school, Chengdu International School (CDIS). Over 50 projects were presented at the three-day event, some by student groups, some by individual contenders. Students brought their incredible skills, knowledge, and findings to a panel of judges, who are professors from universities around the globe, and received feedback. During this intense period of scrutiny, our students received high praise, and one of our groups was encouraged to look into publishing their work.

This group was made up of students from our Junior Class, TaeGyeong L., YeonSeo L., and MinSeo P. Their project, entitled ‘Producing Biodiesel from Seaweed Oil by Using Methanol, Sodium Hydroxide, and Hexane, and Comparative Analysis with Petroleum Diesel and Renewable Energy,’ explored the use of seaweed-based biodiesel as a contributor to “sustainable energy transition while having a positive impact on the environment.” Also receiving positive responses at the national science fair, our second group consisted of YoonJi K. and SuYeon Cho, both from our eleventh grade, and JaeHyun Cha, from our tenth grade. Their project, ‘Comparative Analysis of the Inhibitory Effects of Natural Chemicals on Alleviating Beta-Amyloid Aggregation in C.Elegans,’ tested natural chemicals impacting the accumulation of plaques in the brain, which is a key factor in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

As our groups gained a deeper insight into the world of scientific research, our Secondary Science Teacher, Mr. Jonathan Barta, says, “I hope the students come away knowing they are capable of working right next to some top-level scientists, communicating their work to professionals, and with a new passion to conduct even better scientific research.” To students who are interested in joining next school year’s science fair, he advises, “Start early, and ask questions along the way. But at the end of the day, just try doing science!”

"... they are capable of working right next to some top-level scientists, communicating their work to professionals, and with a new passion to conduct even better scientific research."

Great work to all our participating students! Your persistence, curiosity, and determination have taken you far and have inspired the next generation of student-scientists. We can’t wait to see what you’ll work on next! Thank you to Mr. Barta and Ms. Alissa Flint for supporting students during the fair. You’ve given them an opportunity to be further challenged and to prove to themselves how capable they are.