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Puxi Campus Grade 5: Science TED Talk Proves Wildly Successful and Inspiring

May 13, 2021

On Tuesday, May 11 and Wednesday, May 12, all the A and B block science students gathered in the primary auditorium to attend the first SHSID Science TED Talk. This TED Talk was organized by 5th-grade science teachers and hosted by Mr. Martin. In total, 11 presentations were given to a very attentive audience.

First up was a debate between Victoria, Ella, Irune, and Alexandra from class 5(3). They thoroughly debated the pros and cons of the impact technology has brought upon the lives of humans. Mr. Martin challenged Victoria and Ella on the harm that technological unemployment may bring upon large populations of workers. Meanwhile, audience members challenged Irune and Alexandra on the irony of them using technology to argue against technology.

Up next was a presentation by Hank and Max from 5(3) on the mechanics of microwaves. Most students were surprised to learn that microwave’s heating ability was discovered by Percy Spencer by a chocolate bar melting in his pocket from standing close to radar equipment.

Kelly and Sophie from 5(6) took the stage to discuss the magic of genetics. They outlined the details of DNA, its structure and function, and how it is similar to a computer language, using a quote from Richard Dawkins, “I am fascinated by the idea that genetics is digital. A gene is coded letter, like computer information.”

Next up to wow the crowd was Eric from 5(6). He wrapped up his discussion by sharing the history of the study of black holes, dating back to the 19th century and culminating in the most recent first photo of a black hole ever taken.

Last to present on Tuesday was Thomas from 5(3), discussing the little-understood world of probiotics. Thomas discussed what probiotics are, the benefits of probiotics to our bodies, as well as when the best time to eat probiotics is to maximize their efficacy.

The first student to present on Wednesday was Ryan Zhang from 5(4). Ryan explained the intricacies of the coronavirus. He detailed its structure, pathology, and variety of treatment methods currently available and in development. He concluded by explaining to students what steps they can take to continue to fight the coronavirus.

Next, Jesilina from 5(2) discussed the variety of galaxies in our universe, she went into more detail as to the actual steps behind the formation of galaxies, as well as what conditions will lead to the formation of different kinds of galaxies.

Ethan from 5(8) gave a heartfelt presentation on the mechanics of pressure in fluids. As many students have not learned much about physics before, this was a presentation many students had a lot to learn from!

Anthony from 5(7) went on to lecture about jellyfish’s unique ability to remain eternally young through a process called transdifferentiation. Typically, when jellyfish reach a specific point in their maturity, they can revert to a younger state cellularly.

Edwin and Joey brought down the house with their presentation on the mechanics of the projectile of a gun. It was another topic that many students did not have in-depth knowledge about beforehand, so they were more than a little interested in this lecture.

The last presentation was a little different from the rest, as it was delivered by Jessie from 5(7), a student who is currently enrolled online. She prerecorded her presentation on stars and played to the careful attention of the audience.

Each Science TED Talk class was finalized in an award ceremony, where students were all presented with trophies for their outstanding presentations. Audience members gave a warm round of applause, demonstrating their appreciation and admiration for their highly talented classmates.

(Written By Mr. Martin, Zhou Hui Pictures By Kang Nina)