Hands-On Science Fair Projects at Graham Academy

Students Explore Interactive Science Activities

In April, students in Classroom 8 at The Graham Academy of Mayfield took part in hands-on science fair projects designed to boost engagement, curiosity, and structured learning. Students worked in small groups to complete experiments such as “Walking Water,” “Dancing Raisins,” and “What Melts Ice Faster?”, encouraging exploration through interactive and sensory-based experiences.

Science Fair Projects Encourage Hands-On Learning

Each experiment followed a clear structure, allowing students to ask questions, make predictions, and observe outcomes. With teacher support, students participated in each step of the process using hands-on materials, visuals, and guided prompting.

These activities were especially meaningful for this classroom, which serves students with significant communication and behavioral needs. The hands-on nature of the experiments allowed students to participate beyond traditional verbal responses, including observing, pointing, and interacting directly with materials.

Structured Learning Through Sensory Experiences

The science fair also gave students an opportunity to showcase their work, demonstrating how structured, sensory-based instruction can support learning across a range of needs.

“For many of our students, traditional instruction can be challenging because of limited attention, communication barriers, and behavioral needs,” said Darcy Lasavage, M.Ed., special education teacher, The Graham Academy – Mayfield. “These projects created an accessible way for students to participate in learning through hands-on, visual, and sensory experiences.”

Recognizing Student Growth and Participation

The success of the science fair reflects the dedication of staff members who created structured opportunities for growth and engagement. Even brief moments of participation and focus represented important achievements for students and underscored the importance of recognizing progress at every level.