Love at First Science: Corinth Students Bring STEM to Life

On Saturday, Feb. 7, the Corinth School District hosted “Love at First Science” STEM Saturday camp, where over 120 registered students brought science, technology, engineering, and math to life. The vibrant, hands-on activities were specifically designed to spark imagination and curiosity in students from Pre-K through 6th grade.

Pre-K students designed their own dazzling and colorful Valentine’s Day bookmarks using foam decorations. Kindergartners explored the fascinating properties of a chemical reaction by concocting “love potions.” They also investigated carbonation, density and buoyancy by creating dancing hearts and studied diffusion by pouring hot water over candy hearts and watching the reaction. “We do a lot of experiments [at STEM Saturday],” said kindergartener Merritt Dodd. “We used baking soda and vinegar, and watched our love potion explode. I like guessing what will happen with our experiments. I like STEM Saturday because I like eating pizza, playing with my friends and having fun.” 

First graders explored the principles of density by crafting glowing Valentine’s lava lamps. They also learned about entomology by creating their own unique “love bugs.” Second grade scientists examined the science of light and color while creating shimmering Valentine’s suncatchers. They also delved into the physics of force and motion by engineering Cupid’s bows and arrows. 

Third graders learned valuable teamwork as they engineered a heart cup tower challenge as a group. They also explored the invisible pull of static electricity with balloons and created intricate chromatography and yarn hearts. 

Fourth graders learned about electrical circuits through the creation of LED roses made from delicate tissue paper. Additionally, they explored the properties of hydrophobic and hydrophilic substances while designing Valentine’s Day cards. Fifth and sixth graders applied their advanced engineering skills to design and build their own functional pinball machines using specialized kits. 

In addition to grade-specific tasks, students participated in collaborative projects. Pre-K through 2nd grade students resourcefully constructed a Valentine’s Day streamer and a fork-painted love monster. Third through 6th graders deepened their understanding of electrical circuits by crafting luminous LED Valentine’s Day cards. “I made a heart circuit and I liked learning about how it works,” said De’corian Ramey. “My Valentine’s Day card was blue and I drew my family on my card. I have been to STEM Saturday three times and I love everything about it.” 

The Corinth High School Culinary Arts students added a sweet touch to the day. All participants constructed tasty, decorated love bugs using Hershey’s Kisses and celebrated their hard work with refreshing red Fanta-themed Coke floats served in heart-shaped cups. “I love STEM Saturday because I get to help kids and see their creativity,” said senior Culinary Arts’ students Susan Sanchez and Akiya Davis. “Their energy brightens the room; they are very passionate and it warms my heart. One main thing students learn at STEM Saturday is to work with what you have which enhances their creative minds. It also helps them see that school isn’t all about reading and writing. You can learn stuff in a fun way.” 

Students also participated in a high-tech Robotics and Engineering center. Students skillfully maneuvered Dash and Dot robots using iPads and specialized apps that allow the robot to be controlled through block or text-based programming. “I like playing with the robots,” said Ramey. “I can drive the robot and make it shake its head. I also can make it talk in my own voice.” 

Join us for our next STEM Saturday on April 11 with a theme of STEM Rocks. Register at www.corinth.k12.ms.us.