SWANSEA — Michael Bisbano, a Joseph Case Junior High School eighth grader, is already a scientist.
He uses words like "g-force," "accelerometer," and "oscilloscope" — words that easily spin the heads of fellow classmates who are more well versed in the humanities.
Bisbano, for the school's annual science fair, conducted an experiment with real life consequences, and the results were surprising.
He tested the effects of different helmet padding materials on concussion prevention.
Using a mannequin head, Bisbano measured acceleration and impact of the standard hard foam padding used in helmets, as compared to other materials, including scrubbing sponge, high density foam, bubble wrap, carpet padding, and even bags of Gummy bears.
Bisbano discovered that high density foam produced a much lower impact than standard materials, and therefore would pose a lower chance of concussion to athletes.
Bisbano, who plans to become an engineer, decided on the experiment after learning about the danger of concussions.
"I played football for Case freshmen. My friend got a concussion," Bisbano said.
Bisbano and 39 other Case Junior High School seventh and eighth grade students participated in the annual science fair. This year, they were tasked with choosing a science experiment that was relevant in today's world.
Mikayla Bushell, a seventh grader at Joseph Case Junior High School, slowly poured water over a paper towel to see how well it absorbed.
Bushell tested name brand paper towels Viva, Bounty, Sparkle, Brawny and Scott by pouring 240 milliliters of various liquids onto paper towels held over the top of a glass. She then measured how much liquid came out of the paper towel, and how much it absorbed.
"We changed to Brawny (at home) because of my experiment," Bushell said.
Seventh grader Cameron McCombs tested whether a geranium grows faster in sand, soil, or hydroponically in water.
"I thought hydroponic would do best," McCombs said.
To her surprise, the geranium grown in sand was tallest and had flowered nicely.
"I think it's the way it holds the water," McCombs said.
Macayla Goulet, an eighth grader at Joseph Case Junior High School, tested various drinks, such as egg nog, milk, soda, and juice to see which contained the most glucose.
Goulet said she did the experiment because both her grandmothers have diabetes. She wanted to see which drinks would raise their blood sugar the most.
"In the end, the cranberry juice and ginger ale had the most," Goulet said.
Science fair advisor and teacher Hollie Martin said the students chose a project that was meaningful to them.
Page 2 of 2 - "I'm very proud of the kids," Martin said.
She said the project allowed them to take part in the scientific process while developing critical thinking skills as they explored current and relevant problems affecting today's world.
Seven students were chosen to advance to the Regional Science Fair to be held at Bristol Community College, on Saturday, March 8.