![Bello throwing concussion helmet]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1715877411/saintandrewsnet/ryovqvjfir8bk9qnun7v/Bellothrowingconcussionhelmet.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1715877411/saintandrewsnet/ryovqvjfir8bk9qnun7v/Bellothrowingconcussionhelmet.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1715877411/saintandrewsnet/ryovqvjfir8bk9qnun7v/Bellothrowingconcussionhelmet.png","width":800}])
Grade 7 students in Mr. Bello's science class participated in an inquiry-based investigation with a STEM theme. The students have been learning about their brains, how they function, and then how concussions affect them. After they learned the basic brain science, they were introduced to how real scientists design and construct helmets using their knowledge of physics and math.
First, the students designed their own inquiry-based lab explaining how they would build, test, measure, and collect data on a model helmet they would design to protect a raw egg. Secondly, the students created a blueprint for their designs and were only allowed to use certain materials to build their helmets. Some materials included cotton balls, duct tape, feathers, marshmallows, cardboard, and balloons. Finally, during class, Mr. Bello tested each of the model helmets by throwing them from 10 feet away (with the raw egg safely inside) off a hard surface to see if their design successfully protected the egg. Most of the helmets were successful with only two broken eggs!