SCIENCE FAIR PROPOSED

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29379, 5 December 1960, Page 16

SCIENCE FAIR PROPOSED

Discussion By Teachers The possibility of holding a schools' science fair in Christchurch was discussed by more than 100 teachers of science from Christchurch post-primary schools at a recent meeting of the Canterbury Science Teachers' Association. Reports were received from teachers who had visited the Auckland science fair last August and Mr G. Clark, of Cash* mere High School, showed slides of exhibits from this fair. Mr T. Ralfe, of Shirley Boys’ High School, outlined the work that would have to be done by both teachers and the organising committee. and emphasised a need for support from university departments, education departments and manufacturers’ associations. Mr H E. Dyer, of Christchurch Boys' High School, who had also attended the science fair, said that unless pupils themselves explained and demonstrated their own exhibits, such a fair would lack the vigour and enthusiasm of science displays held at local schools.

A motion that in view of the increasing burden on teachers, a science fair should not be held, obtained only mild support. The chairman (Mr E. S. Hobson) said it would not be too late to make a decision at the annual meeting early in the New Year. It was decided that before this the executive should clarify the aims and nature of possible schools science exhibitions and investigate the extent of local support. Tribute was paid to the work of the secretary-treasurer (Mr P. Beveridge, of Christchurch Boys’ High School), who will leave soon for Fiji, where he has been appointed to a senior position. Mr H. E. Dyer was thanked for his support and given good wishes for his retirement.

Discussions were held with the university staff on the University Entrance and entrance scholarships syllabus in physics, chemistry and biology.