Hero photograph
William Blakie, Nived Menon, Levi Simpson and Owen Jack sampling grass-hoppers
 
Photo by Sarah Paine

Engage in Science

Sarah Paine —

Eleven boys from Year 9 and 10 had the amazing opportunity to attend 'Engage in Science' run by the University of Otago, for budding Science students on the last day of Term 2. 

Thomas Tonkin, Sam Cooper, Levi Simpson, Owen Jack and Joshua Evangelou setting up an urban verses natural environment — Image by: Sarah Paine

Our first session was with the Marine Science Department where we learned about the impacts of urbanisation on sedimentation rates in the ocean and the effect on marine organisms. Some measurements were taken from samples of sea and fresh water to measure light levels, pH, salinity, oxygen and temperature. One fascinating fact we learnt was that mussels filter nine litres of water an hour and we got to see it in action!

Joshua Evangelou testing water samples — Image by: Sarah Paine

In the afternoon at the Food Science Department, the students learnt all about the process of food product development using different plant and insect proteins to create bliss balls. 

Sam Moore, Thomas Tonkin and Sam Cooper refining their bliss ball recipe — Image by: Sarah Paine

From research, design and ingredient testing, sampling, cost analysis and developing an engaging marketing pitch, the boys were surprised by the process it takes to develop one product. 

Finn Stanley, Joshua Evangelou and Henry Zhong presenting their marketing pitch — Image by: Sarah Paine

The best bit? Sampling dried grass-hoppers!

Levi Simpson ready to taste test — Image by: Sarah Paine