The University of Montevallo, the Alabama Math, Science Technology Initiative (AMSTI), and Shelby County Schools will host the first annual Science Festival for school districts throughout central Alabama on Friday, November 7.  This day of science and engineering will encourage and extend students’ understanding of scientific principles and require them to apply their knowledge in various engineering tasks.

For the 2014 Science Festival, approximately 250 students in fourth and fifth grade will work in teams of up to five students to explore science concepts and study engineering designs in preparation for the competition at the University of Montevallo on November 7.

Teams were given one month’s advanced notice of their selected and assigned competitions (egg drop, bridge building or catapult launch) and were encouraged to begin their research and exploration immediately.  On the day of the Science Festival, teams will receive materials and must utilize their research experience in the engineering design process to construct a structure that meets specific criteria for the competition.  Awards will be presented for first, second and third place for each competition.

While on campus, students will also participate in a variety of hands-on science experiences provided by both professional scientists and university students enrolled in science and education related fields.

Some of the cooperating organizations for the 2014 Science Festival include the Alabama Wildlife Federation, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and the University of Montevallo Regional In-Service Center.