Posted on 09/24/2009, 7:55 am, by mySteinbach

Education, Citizenship and Youth Minister Peter Bjornson announced today that $20,000 will again be available for school science projects designed to encourage careers in science and technology.
 
“We would like to see more students exploring the exciting career options available in the scientific and high-tech world,” Bjornson said.  “Special projects that encourage hands-on learning offer great opportunities to Manitoba students, whether they’re interested in the fields of health research, nuclear medicine, biotechnology, sustainable development or astrophysics.”
 
Students in previous years have studied genetics, soil composting, engineering, sustainable water systems and elements of forensic science.  For example, Grade 9 students from four Division scolaire franco-manitobaine (DSFM) schools met face-to-face and online with professors and community resources from Collège universitaire de Saint-Boniface, as well as a scientist working in the field of genetics.  Grade 5 and 6 students from Brandon learned about active, healthy lifestyles by partnering with various health professionals in their community.  In the River East Transcona School Division, Grade 5 students worked with engineers to research, design, construct and test bridges.
 
All grade 5 to 10 teachers in the English, Français or French immersion programs in Manitoba public schools are eligible to apply.  The deadline for applications is Nov. 20.  Projects will be selected by a committee of teachers and staff.  All projects must incorporate a visit from a scientist and be completed in the current school year.
 
“Teachers and scientists working together have already demonstrated new, creative approaches to teaching science and we hope the community partnerships formed through this grant program will motivate and inspire young Manitobans to expand their definition of what a science project can be,” Bjornson said.