Trevvett

WonderFest

Henrico Learner Profile (HLP) 6C Focus

Kindergarten - 5th Grade - Science

SOL/Standard - Various Science Standards

WonderFest

Introducing… WonderFest, Trevvett’s inaugural celebration of  curiosity in science!  Inspired by the reflections of our science action team, WonderFest is a new student presentation of learning that aims to reimagine the traditional science fair into a student-owned showcase of science “wonders.” 


Each class embarked on a journey of inquiry by generating a massive list of science-focused “wonders.”  Then, they selected one wonder, delved into research, and finally crafted a visual display to communicate their findings to the school community.  Collaboration was at the heart of WonderFest, as classes pooled their talents and ideas to create one cohesive and comprehensive display.  Dubbed "Wonder Boards," these displays were featured in an exhibition on the night of WonderFest.  As attendees perused the displays, students put their communication skills into practice as they shared their scientific discoveries with peers and their families! 


In addition to this showcase of student inquiry, WonderFest invited attendees to roll up their sleeves and participate in their own hands-on science exploration as a family. Throughout Trevvett, fourth and fifth grade students led “investigation stations” focused on science standards.  For example, “I wonder how electricity works?” or “I wonder how animals adapt in the winter?”


Born from a school-based need to increase student agency in science, WonderFest not only nurtured scientific understanding but also empowered students as communicators and LifeReady learners!  It is sure to become a Trevvett tradition! 

What did the student(s) learn about this experience:

“WonderFest was fun because we got to design our own boards.” 
- Anna Jane, First Grader


“While creating our Wonder Board, the students did the work not the teacher.  We split into groups and voted so certain people worked on the backgrounds or different sections.  It all came together perfectly.

I always thought birds’ wings made them fly but I learned their so light the air keep them up, not just their wings.

Presenting at WonderFest was a little nerve-wracking with people flowing in but after a while it started settling in and we had a great time.  It was really fun expressing what we learned about how birds fly with other people.” 
- Piper, Fourth Grader

What did the teacher enjoy about this experience:

“I was so surprised with the wonder my students chose - Are there plants that eat bugs?  We may never have tapped into their student interest without WonderFest.  We brought a real Venus Fly Trap into the classroom, and students were fascinated watching it open and close.  This hands-on experience brought their curiosity to life and researching the answers to their own question was an authentic learning experience they won’t forget!”

- Mrs. Gouldman, Kindergarten Teacher

Additional Pictures, Media & Artifacts

Fourth and fifth grade students led science "investigation stations" throughout the school tied to science standards, including an investigation of the best bubble solution featured here!

Each class featured a "Wonder Board" in our cafe exhibition!  Students presented their wonders to attendees.

Students of all ages and their families enjoyed hands-on science fun, including a take-home lima bean greenhouse featured here!

At WonderFest, we promoted curiosity by inviting our Trevvett community to add their science "wonders" to our collaborative Wonder Wall!

Thank you to the innovators who helped make this experience possible: