Science teachers Anne McCormick and Ed McDonald perform an experiment during the second annual Science Halloween Extravaganza held at Jackson Memorial High School. Faculty members from the physics and chemistry departments spent Halloween “spooking” science students with a series of science-based battles in the school auditorium. STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER ERIC SUCAR Teachers at Jackson Memorial High School scared up some spooky science as part of the second annual Science Halloween Extravaganza.
Featuring ghastly experiments conducted by members of the high school’s physics and chemistry departments, students were treated to an hour-long presentation complete with exploding pumpkins and mysterious “ghosts.”
School district officials said the presentations were part of a multi-layered approach to following the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) curriculum.
“Given the new end-of-course testing and expectations of the Common Core State Standards and PARCC initiative, finding ways to inspire students to excellence is imperative,” Jackson School District spokeswoman Allison Erwin said.
Chemistry teacher Anne Mc- Cormick, who conducted a number of the experiments during the Oct. 31 program, said the event has been a fun way for pupils to witness the scientific principles they are taught in class.
“Things like this keep kids engaged in learning and keep kids interested in science,” McCormick said. “We are catching their interest and also explaining the science behind what we are doing.
“Plus, what’s cooler than blowing up a pumpkin in school?”