St. Mary's

STEM Club Explores the Wonders of Seed Dispersal

Three secondary school students lean over a brick wall railing outdoors against a backdrop of green trees and a blue sky. They are smiling and looking downward as they prepare to launch their handmade paper seed prototypes to test their aerodynamic flight.

Our young scientists in the STEM Club have been digging deep into the natural world this week, turning their attention to the ingenious ways plants ensure their survival. Students took part in a hands-on investigation focused on the fascinating mechanics of seed dispersal.

Students examined a variety of specimens, including the delicate parachutes of dandelion seeds, the gripping hooks of sticky weed, and the sharp defenses of rose thorns. A particular highlight was studying the aerodynamic efficiency of maple tree ‘helicopter’ seeds, which provided excellent
inspiration for the practical challenge that followed.

Putting their newfound knowledge into action, students became engineers for the afternoon. They were tasked with designing and constructing their own prototype seeds, applying the structural principles they had observed in the classroom. The excitement reached its peak during the testing phase, where the creations were subjected to simulated wind conditions to see just how far and wide they could travel.

t was a wonderful opportunity for students to connect biology with engineering, and the STEM Club leaders would like to commend everyone involved for their curiosity and brilliant teamwork.