A Celebration of Creativity and Innovation: IB Exhibitions
The recent IBMYP Personal Project Exhibition showcased the incredible talents and diverse interests of Year 10 students. Held within the supportive environment of house groups, the exhibition allowed students to present their projects to their peers and house mentors, fostering a sense of community and shared achievement.
One of the standout projects was a thought-provoking film by Ben Ong and Kevin Chu. Their work delved into the Senecan-Epicurean philosophy, emphasising the importance of cherishing time and reconnecting with the simple, sensory experiences of life. The film urged viewers to step away from the rigid grids of work and societal distractions, and instead, to find joy in the small, often overlooked moments. This philosophical exploration was not only intellectually stimulating but also visually captivating, leaving a lasting impression on all who watched it.
Another highlight was Will Gloster’s project, which combined his passion for speed and engineering. Will’s “Need for Speed” go-karting experience was a testament to his technical skills and innovative thinking. He meticulously maintained and modified a go-kart, demonstrating a deep understanding of engineering principles and a commitment to excellence. His project was not just about the thrill of speed but balanced safety and costs.
Eric Chen’s project showcased his acumen in the world of finance. Over a period of six months, Eric managed to achieve a remarkable 25% growth in his ASX investments. His project detailed the strategies he employed, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned along the way. Eric’s success in the stock market was a testament to his analytical skills and his ability to adapt to changing market conditions. His presentation was both informative and inspiring, offering valuable insights into the world of investments and financial planning.
The exhibition was not just a display of individual achievements but also a celebration of the collaborative spirit that defines the MYP program. Students supported each other, offering feedback and encouragement, and house mentors played a crucial role in guiding and nurturing the projects. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration, communication, self-management and the positive impact it has had on student development.
A Fusion of Science and Art, the IBDP Combined Sciences Project Exhibition was a thrilling showcase of creativity and scientific inquiry. This event, previously known as the Group 4 Project, brought together students from various scientific disciplines to address local issues within a global context, using art as their medium of communication. The result was a series of thought-provoking and visually striking artworks that highlighted pressing environmental and social issues.
One of the standout pieces was an ice column that became progressively dirtier incorporating chemical structures and agricultural tools. This artwork served as a powerful commentary on agricultural runoff and its detrimental effects on waterways. As the ice melted, it revealed layers of pollutants, symbolizing how agricultural practices can contaminate water sources. This visual representation effectively communicated the urgency of addressing water pollution and the need for sustainable farming practices.
Another compelling installation was a cave with eerie, echoing voices. This piece represented the echo chambers of social media and the harm that misinformation can cause to science and public well-being. The haunting echoes within the cave illustrated how false information can reverberate and amplify within closed networks, leading to widespread misconceptions and distrust in scientific facts. This artwork underscored the importance of critical thinking and media literacy in the digital age.
A particularly imaginative piece featured an organic, feathered bird with jet engines under its wings, dropping carbon floss. This juxtaposition highlighted the evolution of flight and the efficiencies of nature that human engineering has yet to replicate. The artwork served as a reminder of the incredible advancements in natural evolution and the ongoing challenges in creating sustainable and efficient human technologies. It called for a greater appreciation of nature’s ingenuity and the need to learn from it.
The exhibition also included a water filtration system that emphasised recent conversations about water quality in Sydney. This open water filtration system demonstrated need to improve water quality and raised awareness about the importance of clean water for public health. The interactive nature of this piece allowed viewers to engage with the filtration process, making the issue of water quality more tangible and immediate.
Finally, a multimedia presentation on the effects of plastic pollution brought the global issue to a local level. The presentation featured a Cranbrook basketball filled with rubbish collected from the school’s playground, illustrating the pervasive nature of plastic waste. This artwork highlighted the impact of plastic pollution on the environment and encouraged the community to act in reducing plastic use and improving waste management practices.
The IBDP Combined Sciences Project Exhibition was a remarkable event that successfully merged scientific exploration with artistic expression. It provided a platform for students to address significant issues creatively and effectively, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the interconnectedness of local and global challenges. The exhibition not only showcased the students’ talents but also inspired the community to think critically about the world around them and the role they play in shaping a sustainable future.
Erin Munn
IB MYP Coordinator