June 7, 2023
Eighth grade students in Mr. Milam’s class showcased their talent for STEM through challenging yet fulfilling independent research projects. Students were empowered to select any STEM-related topic and dedicate approximately 15 hours to focused research. These Middle School scientists were also required to connect and communicate with an expert in their chosen field, allowing students to glean profound insights and information about their topic from another person. Josephine M. explained, “I studied preservation in archaeology for four weeks. I learned about some of the most famous artifacts and places ever found, like King Tutankhamun’s tomb and the Dead Sea Scrolls. These historic artifacts greatly impacted our knowledge of what happened thousands of years ago, and they all have extremely interesting preservation stories. In my display, you may also learn about the expert I contacted who gave me information about her job in Zimbabwe.”
From Zoom meetings with specialists around the world to collaborations with local professionals, the students explored their passions in a truly global context. These encounters have not only enriched students’ understanding of the subject matter but have also exposed them to diverse perspectives and global collaboration. Mr. Milam expressed, “The most notable thing about this round of projects is the quality of experts.”
The hard work eighth graders put in fosters a deep understanding of STEM principles but also nurtures crucial skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, and collaboration. Through this MPA assignment, eighth graders learn to navigate complex scientific concepts, sift through vast amounts of information, work towards improving humanity at the global level, and present their findings in a clear and concise manner.
To see the full album of photos from the Independent Research Project showcase, click here.
