As part of the seventh grade science unit covering forms of energy, energy transfer and energy transformation, students in Mrs. Pevets’ science classes have been learning about conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction is a form of energy transfer that involves direct contact in solids, liquids and gases.  Convection involves direct contact in fluids—which are liquids and gases.  The phenomenon of warm fluids rising and cooler ones sinking is an illustration of convection.  Finally, radiation (such as light traveling through the vacuum of space) is a form of energy transfer that involves no direct contact.
After investigating all three of these forms of energy transfer, students culminated their unit with a real-life example of all three. They toasted marshmallows on forks over candles and used them to make S’mores.  Mrs. Pevets turned out the lights, and students sang campfire songs as they toasted their marshmallows. Mrs. Pevets even told a scary story her dad used to tell.  The seventh grade science students owe a special thank you to BP for grant funds that provided materials for the experience.  Also, we wish to thank Robby Edwards’ mom, Mrs. Tina Edwards,for her donation of forks.

Students shown making their s’mores are Lauren Howard (left) and Andrea Lee (on right.)