Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Dear Science Buddies, The head of Science has organised a trip to the local Shopping Mall for our 12 grade to carry out science projects in teams including each of a Chemistry, Physics and Biology pupil for the Group 4 IB project. Can you give me any ideas of what science projects could be applicable to a day visit to a Mall. I have thought of measuring the mechanical efficiency of carrying things up a escalator for Physics, lift and stairs; also comparing pulse and blood pressure in Biology. I need more ideas for the students to choose. Many thanks.

Dear Stephen,

What a fun thing for your school!

I like your Physics idea. You could also have your Physics teams look at objects rolling down some of the ramps, or comparing the lighting in jewelry stores compared to other stores.

Pulse and blood pressure is a great idea for Biology. Lung capacity is another relatively easily measured variable for which they can compare different groups by age or gender.

For Chemistry, perhaps you could have students compare different food items in the food court. Have you considered having them identify the organic molecules in foods and relating them to their sense of smell? They could also look at the different ingredients in make-up (hopefully without having to buy it!).

I hope this helps!
Heather