Quick Dips

Young Scientists' Fair

Fifteen thousand students from forms one to seven are demonstrating their research skills, as the 1991 round of regional science fairs moves into top gear. A total of 20 regional fairs, sponsored by Electricorp Production, are to be held. Regional winners qualify for entry to the New Zealand science fair, where awards include opportunities to compete at international science fairs.

Foremost among the judges' criteria are scientific thought and understanding. Winning projects in the regional rounds to date have included investigations of fungicidal control of Botrytis in grapes, the effectiveness of detergents found in native New Zealand plants, and the strengths of fibreglass materials and their potential uses in kayaks and canoes.