1999 Student Winners
Categories:
- Biology and Microbiology
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Environmental and Earth Science
- Physics, Engineering and Technology
- School of the Year Award
Biology and Microbiology
Michael Bailey-Price
Year 7, Telopea park School, ACT
Scoring Habitat Diversity for Sampling Brush-Tailed Phascogales
Michael's topic was to determine an appropriate way to score habitat characteristics to be used in further experiments measuring the preferred habitats of Tuans and to determine the extent of habitat diversity.
Michael illustrated how enthusiasm for his topic of research stimulated some great work. His deep interest in the topic saw him draw from the generous expertise of many experts in the field, whom he openly acknowledged.
Michael demonstrated some critical appraisal of earlier research on the Tuan during his extensive literature review. His first research topic unfortunately failed due to circumstances beyond his control however he showed initiative by successfully redirecting the focus of his research to address another set of aims.
Michael's field methods were very appropriate to the stated aims and reflected a well-considered fieldwork plan. The statistical data obtained from this work suggests that the methods for scoring habitat diversity were worthwhile.
The research topic is also of importance and can be used ion further work with the potential to make a positive difference in securing the sustainability of an endangered species the Brushed tailed phascogale.
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Duncan George & Michael Holt
Year 12, Brisbane Grammar School, QLD
Programming to Identify Crude Oils
Duncan and Michael identified a project that was related to a issue of major social significance. The basis for their investigation was the need for the efficient identification of crude oils, in the event of an oil spill or other similar disaster. Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy to obtain unique spectrums for a range of oils, the students then prepared a computer program that could be used to compare the spectrum of an unknown oil with the database to determine the identity of the oil. This is of significance because different oils require different 'cleanup' techniques and a rapid method of identification is required. The students then further developed their work by preparing another model to predict the pour point and density of an unknown oil. The judges found this to be an excellent research project with effective use of sophisticated techniques and logical assessment of the results. The work was presented in a clear manner and demonstrated the many months taken by the students to develop new skills in the areas of spectroscopy and programming.
Environmental and Earth Science
Robert Smith
Year 12, Blue Mountains Grammar School, NSW
Effect Of Urban Development on the Population of Microbats in the Lower Blue Mountains
Robert Smith from Blaxland in NSW was awarded first place for his research report on "The Effects of Urban Development on the Population of Microbats in the Lower Blue Mountains". Robert produced a thorough and innovative report addressing the effect of bushland clearing for urban development, in the lower Blue Mountains, on the local population of microbats. He took into consideration the density and species composition of microbat populations by using the new technology, "a bat detector". The bat detector is a low impact form of sampling which detects and identifies the bats' ultrasonic calls. After collecting data over a series of months, his study concluded that urban development in the lower Blue Mountains leads to a reduction of bat species present in the areas surveyed and a reduction in levels of microbats activity.
Physics, Engineering and Technology
Peter Kaye-Smith
Year 11, Redeemer Baptist School, NSW
Warning! Saunas Aren't Designed for Infants
Peter's entry tackles the tragic issue of heat-related children's deaths in motor vehicles. Peter begins his research by collating statistics, identifying existing studies and analysing the causal factors associated with the phenomena. This forms the basis of an extensive phase of controlled experiments that investigate the changes in temperature, humidity levels, carbon dioxide and other parameters within enclosed vehicles throughout the year.
Using the results of this work, Peter developed a practical heat dispelling system to control the critical factors. The device is thoroughly tested and is demonstrated to provide an effective solution to reducing the risk of heat-related injuries and deaths.
1999 BHP School of the Year Award
Telopea Park School, ACT