Rockets showcase scientific process in action at annual science fair

The Science Department hosted its annual Science Fair on Thursday, Jan. 26. 35 students were invited to present their projects to a panel of judges comprised of faculty, friends of McNicholas, and Science National Honor Society members.

Science teacher Ms. Mary Dennemann said, “Students have been preparing science fair projects for the last 18 weeks. We are proud of their hard work." 

There were many interests represented across the fair, some using their love of music, plants, computers, and even surfing as the basis for their project. Projects ranged from The Effect of Bioremediation on Simulated Nitrogen-Rich Runoff to the Effect of Complexity on Video Rendering Times. 

"Often students tell their science teachers that they have flaws in their final project.  However, the whole point of the science fair is to learn about the scientific process and apply the principles to their own primary research. Students who can analyze their own mistakes and think about how to improve their work next time have absolutely achieved excellence and found their brilliance," Ms. Dennemann said.

The winners are eligible to compete in the regional science fair to be held at the University of Cincinnati this spring.

First Place

Lila Moeves | Which Disinfectant is Most Effective in Killing E. coli Bacteria

Second Place

Jordan Wheatley | Does Improving Peripheral Vision Increase Reading Speed?

Third Place (tie)

Jonathan Byrum | The Effect of Plant Bioremediation on Simulated Nitrogen-Rich Runoff
Colin Koran | The Effect of pH on Spherification
Lily Must | How Depth of the Rocker Affects the Speed and Distance of a Surfboard

Honorable Mentions

Julia Cheek | What is the Most Effective Growth Method for Impatiens?
Tyler Munzel | Effect of Complexity on Video Rendering Times
Francie Goff | Directional Plant Root Growth Trials

Special Awards

Outstanding Life Science Award
Megan Longmore | Does Washing Produce Make a Difference

Governor’s Thomas Edison Award in Alternative Energy
Brady McPheron | Which Plant Lowers Temperature the Best?

Governor’s Thomas Edison Award in Advanced Materials
Lynn Sandmann | Will Vegetables or Flowers Have Lower Absorbance Values When Made Into Watercolors?

Governor’s Thomas Edison Award in Biotechnology
Owen Lawler | Freeze Thrower

Governor’s Thomas Edison Award in Information Technology
Tyler Munzel | Effect on Complexity on Video Rendering Times