Today was the day! The kids gave their presentation at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington DC, and it was PERFECT! All the practicing paid off. I could not have been more proud of them. They were complimented by the other teams and even Dr, Goldstein, the program director, on how well they did. The presentation was so good people actually thought bacteria were interesting and were still asking them questions throughout the day. I am so happy for them. We have been reflecting on the days events and we are overwhelmed with accomplishment and pride.
One of
my most exciting moments of the day was when the students had a scientific discussion with another group who did an experiment using the same bacteria, they compared experimental designs, results, and potential flaws of each others experiments. Science needs to be discussed and shared if we are to continue to move forward, and these two groups were having a real scientific discussion in which both groups could benefit. Each experiment is important, but together they could have more meaning and impact than any individual project could have.
I don't know if the students see themselves as real scientists yet. But they certainly are real scientists and they proved themselves today. They've got what it takes and now they can take it as far as they want.
Rafael, Illiana, and Ali....I voted them "Best dressed" before we even left the hotel!
One with the teacher. Just to prove I really was there.
Out front of the museum. It's hard to get a still photo when everyone is excited.
The 3 awesome teachers.
Astronauts will walk on the moon or walk on your head...whatever is there.
I have so many of these pictures. The Museum is amazing.
First space capsule where a spacewalk was born.
Dr. Goldstein signing autographs on the middle school presentation poster. Why didn't I think of that?
Getting set up on the stage. Only about 15 minutes before everyone was seated for presentations.
In the Moving Beyond Earth Gallery.
Dr. Goldstein's welcoming remarks.
Discussing experimental design with Dr. Goldstein at the poster presentation.
Another film crew.
I will post the video later, internet access is not adequate to upload it now, but I will try again later. For now all I have is lots of pictures.
First of all the picture of three young scientists ready for their presentation....wow. You look fantastic. I can't say any more than that. You make me so proud!
ReplyDeleteAs for what I have heard about your presentation: I am not surprised and yet I am so excited for you. It is one thing to know your material and present in front of people you know but it is a completely different feeling to stand in front of lots of people you don't know and still make an outstanding presentation. Again, I am so proud of you! Congratulations!!