The John C. Birdlebough High School Earth Science Honors class boasted academic exploration during the annual Earth Science Honors Research Symposium, held in the JCB library.
The symposium was a culmination of six months of student research based on climate change. Students reviewed scientific articles, designed a research collage poster and presented a videotaped PowerPoint presentation in class addressing a scientific question about climate change. Through that research, students explored how climate has affected the following topics: bird migration, coral reefs, Galapagos Penguins, the human population, war, plankton and mammals, among several other categories.
Each of the 19 students provided a brief synopsis of their research and what they learned about climate change. Dan Braun said he learned that coral reefs have become more vulnerable to diseases, while Declan Hawthorne said storms are increasing in intensity. Emilie Hilliard explored human involvement in climate change, and cautioned classmates and the two dozen guests in attendance to be more careful what we do in the world today so the world remains stable.
Certificates of appreciation were handed out to each student by Teacher Susan Sharp. Six students were selected as medal winners and Hilliard received a plaque for the principal’s choice Best of Show award from Principal Gregory Molloy. Attendees voted “What Are the Effects of Climate Change on Polar Bears” as their favorite poster, which was designed by Mariah Sheirer.
On behalf of her class, Hilliard also honored Molloy with a certificate of appreciation for his support for the symposium. He commended the students for their hard work and dedication.
JCB Teacher Susan Sharp, front left, distributes honors research symposium certificates of appreciation
to students.