Science is everywhere, not just in textbooks

Anvitaa Seksaria and Suchi Jatia, two students of the Bombay International School, began the Knowledge through Interactive Demonstration of Science (KIDS) programme on February 2, 2019. Realising that there was a disconnect between the scientific knowledge students gained from their textbooks and its real-life applications, they set out to help Bhavishya Yaan (G. K. Marg Municipal School) students in grades 7 and 8 experience science through handson
projects.

Suchi’s experience in teaching underprivileged students in municipal schools helped her see that many students saw science as a theoretical subject with no relevance to everyday life. Anvitaa, who conducted activities and competitions with the Bhavishya Yaan children, saw that interactive approaches worked well with children from such backgrounds.

Together, the two decided to enhance the children’s scientific awareness. They discussed their idea with Rtn. Ptn. Ekta Shah, visited the G. K. Marg Municipal School, and met with the students’ teachers. After this, the girls formulated their KIDS programme.

The KIDS programme involves four sessions, the first three of which introduces concepts from biology, physics and chemistry. The module culminates with the fourth session which is a science fair where the children get to showcase the knowledge gained.

Suchi and Anvitaa, along with Yajjat Seksaria, conducted the first session on February 2, 2019, on biospheres and self-sustaining ecosystems. An interactive discussion was held about ecological factors that affect human survival and how they are all interconnected. The students made their own terrariums with materials provided to them. They were then questioned on why each element was essential to their miniature ecosystem and how pollution could disrupt it.

The first two-hour session, with approximately 30 students, was a huge success. The next sessions will be on mechanics and water treatment. Anvitaa and Suchi have already started preparations for the science fair where the students will present their work to other students and visitors.