6 november 2014 republic polytechnic - ministry of education...rgps how do p5 gep girls in rgps feel...

6 November 2014

Republic Polytechnic

MESSAGE

The 2014 Individualised Research Study (IRS) Exhibition cum Presentation showcases 116 projects done by students from the Gifted Education Programme (GEP) primary centres and the Integrated Programme (IP) schools.

The IRS aims to prepare GEP students to become independent learners and to give them opportunities to explore specific areas of interest in greater depth. When students undertake a 10-month research project, they learn critical and creative thinking skills, as well as essential values and dispositions as young researchers. They also acquire effective communication skills as they present their research to an audience comprising adults and their peers.

The wide variety of experimental and non-experimental projects presented this year is evidence of the investigative and innovative abilities of our students. They have used a range of methods to gather different kinds of data and information to address their research questions or verify their hypotheses. The knowledge and skills which the students demonstrated are remarkable.

I would like to praise all students who have put in their best effort to complete their projects. I hope that the students will enjoy presenting their projects and the members of the audience will enjoy viewing the exhibits and listening to the presentations. Last but not least, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the principals and teacher-supervisors of the participating schools, for their unwavering support, resolve and commitment to make the IRS Exhibition cum Presentation a meaningful and impactful event.

Mrs Deborah Tan Deputy Director/Gifted Education Curriculum Planning and Development Division Ministry of Education

Thursday, 6 November 2014 0830 to 1700 Hours

Venue: LTE5; Agora Hall

Programme School (P4 audience)

Sess

ion

A

Time Activity Venue

0830 - 0850 Arrival Outside LTE5 RGPS RS

0850 - 0900 Briefing LTE5

0900 - 1030 Oral presentation

1030 - 1100 Tea break Outside LTE5

1100 - 1230 Poster Exhibition Agora Hall

Sess

ion

B 0830 - 0850 Arrival Outside Agora Hall ACS(P)

CHS(P) NHPS

0850 - 0900 Briefing Agora Hall

0900 - 1030 Poster Exhibition

1030 - 1100 Tea break In Agora Hall

1100 - 1245 Oral presentation LTE5

1230 - 1300 Lunch (for poster and oral presenters/helpers)

(for teachers looking after the poster and oral presenters/helpers)

Programme School (P4 audience) Time Activity Venue

Sess

ion

C 1300 - 1320 Arrival Outside LTE5 NYPS

SHPS TNS

1320 - 1330 Briefing LTE5

1330 - 1500 Oral Presentation

1500 - 1530 Tea break Outside LTE5


Sess

ion

D 1300 - 1320 Arrival Outside Agora Hall HPPS

NYPS




1530 - 1645 Oral presentation LTE5

Thursday, 6 November 2014 0830 to 1715 hours LRW4A; Agora Hall

Programme for IP school Students School

(Sec audience)

Sess

ion

E

Time Activity Venue

0830 - 0850 Arrival Outside LRW4A Cedar RV SNGS TJC VS

0850 - 0900 Briefing LRW4A

0900 - 1045 Oral presentation

1045 - 1100 Tea break Outside LRW4A


Sess

ion

F 0830 - 0850 Arrival Outside Agora Hall CHS

MGS NJC SCGS SJI




1100 - 1245 Oral presentation LRW4A

1245 - 1315 Lunch (for poster and oral presenters/helpers)

(for teachers looking after the poster and oral presenters/helpers)

Programme for P6 Students School (P6 audience) Time Activity Venue

Sess

ion

G 1300 - 1320 Arrival Outside LRW4A HPPS

NYPS SHPS TNS

1320 - 1330 Briefing LRW4A

1330 - 1515 Oral Presentation

1515 - 1530 Tea break Outside LRW4A


Sess

ion

H 1300 - 1320 Arrival Outside Agora Hall ACS(P)

CHS(P) NHPS RGPS RS




1530 - 1715 Oral presentation LRW4A

Note: Sessions G and H are repeats for Sessions E and F.

PRIMARY PROJECT ORAL PRESENTATIONS VENUE: LTE5

SESSION/

TIME SCHOOL PROJECT PRESENTER(S)

A 0900

to 1030 hours

RGPS #Selfie_Influenza Koo Li

RGPS How do P5 GEP Girls in RGPS Feel about Women Taking Up National Service?

Melissa Hock

RGPS Nanoparticles can Enter Green Beans and Affect its Growth

Xue Letao Hannah

RS How Reliable are Childproof Containers? Akiel Shahan Iskandar

RS How are P5 GEP Students in RS Coping with their Schoolwork and CCAs?

Goh Jun Tong Samantha

RS Effectiveness of Different Laundry Detergents

Leo Xi Ning

B 1100

to 1245 hours

ACS(P) Prevalence and Awareness of Acne among P6 ACS(P) Students

Foo Chuan Jen Jonathan

ACS(P) Are Children Influenced by Brand Name and Packaging when Buying Wafer Sticks?

Wu Wen Shan Xavier

CHS(P) Future Development of Pulau Ubin Caleb Wern Shih Loh

CHS(P) What is the Most Effective Way to Store Frozen Meat?

Russell Ng Jung Hng

NHPS Fishy Treats! Lim Sing Wei

NHPS Zodiac Signs Compatibility Pheobe Ong Hong Ying

NHPS Unsaturated Fats in Different Cooking Oils Tan Te Quan

PRIMARY PROJECT ORAL PRESENTATIONS VENUE: LTE5

SESSION/


C 1330

to 1500 hours

NYPS Does Knowing How to Speak the Same Dialect as Your Grandparents Help in Strengthening the Relationship Between P5 NYPS GEP Students and their Grandparents?

Goh Shi Sien Sarah

NYPS Finding a Link between Spatial Visualisation and Music

Jennifer Goh Zhen Ni

SHPS Laughter and Well-Being in the Classroom Joy Loke Jia Huan, Janelle Liow Enqi, Ashley Cheo

SHPS Effectiveness of the SHPS Eat a Balanced Meal Programme

Yap Xiao Hui

TNS Is there a Positive Link between the Price of Solar Film and Its Effectiveness?

James E Cheung En Rui

TNS An Analysis of the Presence of Pesticides and Its Cost-Competitiveness between Organic and Non-Organic Fruits and Vegetables

Woo Hsin Yi Alyssa

D 1530

to 1645 hours

HPPS Battery Recycling Noelle Leow Le Xuan

HPPS Would You Eat a Purple Tomato? Tan Ren Ying

NYPS Effectiveness of Thermotherapy in Slowing the Spoilage of Grapes

Law Qiao Yuan Ann

NYPS Study of Misconceptions About Percentage

Low Choo Ray

NYPS How to Best Prevent Metal Oxidation at Home

Ooi Wei Chern

SECONDARY PROJECT ORAL PRESENTATIONS VENUE: LRW4A

SESSION/


E 0900

to 1045 hours

and

G 1330

to 1515 hours

ASC(I) The Development of a Non-Toxic and Water Resistant Homemade Glue

Goh Kai-En Russell, Chong Ke Ming Clement, Henrik Koh

ACS(I) The History of Visual Art Education in Singapore Schools

Jordan Foo Bao Luo, Lee Shi Hao, Joshua Lim Wen Jie, Darrell Lim Enrui

DHS Removal Of Nickel (II) from Acid Mine Drainage (AMD)

Lee Jia Pei, Leow Kamin Tiffany, Pong Ruici Rachel, Yeo Clarissa

DHS The Cost of Beauty: A Study of the Impact Of Popular Media on Singaporean Teenagers’ Perceptions of the Ideal Body Image

Leong Wei Yee, Alecia

HCI An Exploration of Digital Poetics Chiang Kah Lok Ronald, Michael Liu Ruijie, Ng Wei Kai, Tan Zhong Chen

HCI W!Ld Rice-Personae And Facades in the Singapore Theatre Scene

Tan Jin Hsi Gabriel, Ong Juin Khai

NYGH Wrap It Up! Zhu Xinle, Wong Chloe, Alicia Seah Xin Ying, Zhang Ludi

SECONDARY PROJECT ORAL PRESENTATIONS VENUE: LRW4A

SESSION/


F 1100

to 1245 Hours

and

H 1530

to 1715 hours

NUSHS Paint-on Power Ang Jing Zhi Joy, Sonia E K Arumuganainar, Pang Wan Rion Marion

NUSHS Rhizoremediation of Anthracene in Hardy Tropical Plants

Madhumita Ayyappan, Marvin Dragon Choo, Lim Ting Wei

RGSS The Antibacterial Effects of Different Species of Ginger in the Zingiberaceae Family on the Gastrointestinal Tract

Hazel Lau Huiyan, Vanessa Ching Jiahui, Riddhi Manoj Mehta

RGSS Actually Contextually: A Study on the Effectiveness of Culturally-oriented Symbols in Graphic Design

Tan Rhe-Anne, Ooi Pei Ying Karyn, Tan Zi Ling Jolene

RI A Study of the Built Heritage in Singapore and the Need to Preserve Them: Perspective of Raffles Institution Students

Goh Zhi Jie, Ethan Lee, Eugene Chua Wei Heng, Ian Tay Rongde, Kee Yun Shao

RI Effects of Plant-Based Extract on the Growth of Micrococcus Luteus

Yeo Xu Zhan Dylan, Yang Cheng Yuan Morris, Tang Zer Han Malcolm

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NO. ABSTRACT 1 Poster

COMPARING EFFECTIVENESS OF NATURAL EXTRACT FROM PLANTS IN REPELLING MOSQUITO WITH COMMERCIAL DEET

CHAN YI JIE XAVIER Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Ms Ho Ying Feng Hanni

The United States Environmental Protection Agency reported cases of DEET-associated seizures, including deaths. This was a cause for concern as N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET) could be found in many commercial mosquito repellents. This project aimed to compare the effectiveness of extracts from citronella grass (Cymbopogon winterianus), mosquito plant (Pelargonium citrosum) and catnip plant (Nepeta cataria) with DEET in repelling mosquitoes. An experiment was conducted where each plant extract, obtained through distillation, was placed in individually sealed chamber containing mosquitoes. The flight paths of the mosquitoes were recorded on video overnight. Analysis of the video footages showed that citronella oil was the most effective plant extract, and as effective as DEET, in repelling mosquitoes.

2 CAN PLAYING INTERNATIONAL CHESS IMPROVE MATHEMATICS? Poster GOH SHEN EE MATTHEW

Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Chui Yuen Phun

The project aimed to find out whether playing chess improves students’ ability to solve mathematical questions. Fifty students from P5 GEP, 50 from P5 mainstream and another 30 from the Chess Club in the school participated in a Perception Survey and a Mathematics Achievement Test. An interesting observation is that in both the GEP and mainstream groups, those who played chess had a higher average Math score (6.5%) than those who did not.


PARENTAL SUPPORT AT SPORTS COMPETITIONS: WHAT PARENTS SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT DO

MAK RUI AN RYAN Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Chui Yuen Phun

Many parents of student-athletes are supportive of their children’s chosen sporting pursuits but are unsure if what they do at competitions motivates or stresses their children. The aim of this project was to find out whether student-athletes wanted their parents to attend their competitions and how the latter should behave during the competition. Forty-eight soccer players and swimmers from the Singapore Sports School and 19 students from Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) were surveyed. While findings indicated that 77% of the respondents welcomed the presence of their parents, they found parents’ shouting and parents’ disagreements with the coach distracting. A brochure of the collated findings will be shared with all student-athletes who participated in the survey.

4 AWARENESS OF CYBER-BULLYING AMONG P5 GEP STUDENTS IN ACS(P) Poster MIKAIL FIRAS DIN S/O ABDUL JABBAR

Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Miss Mok Pei Terk

The aim of the project was to find out the level of awareness of cyber-bullying amongst students. According to a survey conducted by the Coalition Against Bullying for Children and Youth, students spent a large amount of time on the internet. Another survey by Touch Cyber Wellness found that primary school students were increasingly exposed to cyber bullying, and some were becoming perpetrators of cyber-bullying. Twenty-five ACS(P) P5 students were surveyed for their awareness of cyber-bullying and related issues. Among the respondents, 96% accurately identified what constituted cyber-bullying, 27% experienced or had witnessed cyber-bullying, and 70% indicated that they preferred to seek help from adults like teachers, family members and counsellors to deal with it. Therefore, more support and guidance from these significant adults would be helpful.


A STUDY OF HAND HYGIENE AWARENESS AND PRACTICE AMONG ACS(P) STUDENTS

OLIVER JAMES TAN Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Miss Mok Pei Terk

The aim of the project was to find out if the students of Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) were aware of the 8-step hand washing technique advocated by the Health Promotion Board and how they practised hand hygiene. One hundred and twenty students from P1 to P6 (20 per level) were randomly selected and surveyed on their hand hygiene practices. Though most respondents saw the value of practising proper hand hygiene, 40% of respondents did not wash their hands regularly before consuming food and 57% did not spend enough time washing their hands. Teachers’ help would be needed to address the gaps in students’ knowledge of hand hygiene and to encourage more students to practise proper hand hygiene.

6 TOOTH EROSION AND DENTAL AWARENESS Poster SEOW JIAN HAO PAUL


The aim of this project was to find out the impact of the acid in common drinks on tooth erosion and to ascertain the level of dental awareness among P5 GEP students in Anglo-Chinese School (Primary), and their parents. Eleven human teeth specimens without decay or restoration were cleared of visible calculus and submerged in equal volumes and concentrations of six drinks (a. carbonated or b. non-carbonated) with different pH levels over a period of three weeks. Forty-eight P5 GEP students and their parents were also surveyed on dental habits and dental awareness. The experiment showed that the carbonated beverages caused a greater loss of mass in the teeth than non-carbonated ones. Among the students surveyed, 39% preferred drinking carbonated drinks, although they and their parents had a high level of awareness of good dental habits.

NO. ABSTRACT 7 EFFECTIVENESS OF ANTI-BULLYING CAMPAIGN Poster TAN MING ZHENG IGNATIUS PAUL

Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Chui Yuen Phun

The project aimed to find out the effectiveness of the annual Anti-bullying Campaign in the school and what students did when they encountered bullying. Seventy-eight P5 students, at least 10 from each class, were surveyed. Three quarters of the respondents felt that the campaign helped them differentiate the different types of bullying and raised their awareness of how to seek help if they experienced bullying. While verbal bullying formed two-thirds of the bullying incidents, bystanders were mainly proactive in stopping the bully and informing a trusted adult. The anti-bullying campaign had been partially effective though more measures could still be taken to make the school bully-free.

8 SLEEP PATTERN OF STUDENTS IN P5 ACS(P) GEP BOYS Poster WU YI FENG ETHAN

Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Karen Wong

The aim of this project was to find out if P5 GEP boys in Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) were getting sufficient sleep on school nights, and if not, why. A study conducted by the Singapore General Hospital in 2009 showed that four in five teens in Singapore were not getting the recommended eight to nine hours of sleep. Fifty P5 GEP students and their parents participated in a survey and provided information on the sleep habits of the students. It was found that 30% of the respondents slept less than the recommended hours on school nights although 92% of them knew about the importance of having adequate sleep. Among the respondents’ parents, 68% had, at some point in time, voiced their concerns about their children’s sleep habits. They shared that the most common activity their children engaged in before bedtime was doing school work.

NO. ABSTRACT 9 PREVALENCE AND AWARENESS OF ACNE AMONG P6 ACS(P) STUDENTS Oral FOO CHUAN JEN JONATHAN


A search on Google Scholar showed that studies on acne had been done on students from other countries or of other ages, but not on 12-year-olds in Singapore. This project aimed to find out the prevalence of acne amongst P6 students in Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) and their awareness of proper skin care and treatment. Forty P6 students were surveyed and a dermatologist interviewed. Data from the survey showed that 60% of the respondents did not have acne and 80% of them were aware of proper skin care and available treatment. The dermatologist explained that while this finding might suggest that respondents were aware of proper skin care and treatment of acne, they might still be affected by acne due to other factors, such as genetic make-up and stress level, which were not within their control.

10 Oral

ARE CHILDREN INFLUENCED BY BRAND NAME AND PACKAGING WHEN BUYING WAFER STICKS?

WU WEN SHAN XAVIER Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Chui Yuen Phun

This project aimed to find out if children between seven and 12 years old are influenced by brand name and packaging. Fifty children aged between seven to 12 years old were surveyed. Results suggested that attractive packaging combined with brand awareness and a mouth-watering picture of the wafer could influence the respondents to choose some wafer sticks over others. It seemed that the respondents were influenced by the attractiveness of the wafer picture and the colours in the packaging more than the size, shape or material of the package.

NO. ABSTRACT 11 PRESERVING APPLES Poster JONATHAN TAN ZHI YONG

Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Ms Thum Chuay Lin

The experiment aimed to determine the best natural ingredients for preserving taste, colour and hardness of apples. Artificial preservatives like butylated-hydroxytoluene are effective but have detrimental side-effects (http://www.livestrong.Com/article/325437-harmful-effects-of-preservatives-in-foods). In the current study, natural preservatives commonly used by housewives like lemon juice and salt, and other ingredients, were tested. An apple slice was placed in each 25% solution made using salt, sugar, onion, lemon juice, citric acid and vinegar, with distilled water as control. An adult independent rater evaluated the colour, taste and hardness of the apple slices after 90 minutes. An average score computed using the average scores for taste, colour and hardness across three trials was obtained for each solution. Salt, followed by citric acid and onion solutions were the best at preserving taste, colour and hardness.

12 EXERCISING – DOES IT HELP TO IMPROVE OUR SLEEP QUALITY? Poster KEANE WONG WENBIN

Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Mr Chua Boon How

A study cited in Sleep Disorders Health Center (http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/news/20100917/exercise-helps-you-sleep) showed that physical activities help people sleep better, while other studies seem to show that physical activities interfere with sleep. This project aimed to study the effect of exercise on one’s quality of sleep. A fitness band was used to discreetly monitor the distance walked (exercise) and movement during sleep (quality of sleep) of 20 subjects over a period of two weeks. The band determined the intensity of exercise by using the speed of walking to calculate the metabolic equivalents (METs). Results suggested that, as long as the subject exercised at an intensity of five METs or below for up to 45 minutes daily, the quality of sleep generally improved with physical activities.


CAN CHANGES IN MINDSET AND MOTIVATION BRING ABOUT AN IMPROVEMENT IN THE PROFICIENCY OF CHINESE IN UPPER PRIMARY STUDENTS?

LEOM SHENG RUI Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Ms Thum Chuay Lin

This project aimed to ascertain if positive mindset and motivation would contribute to higher Chinese grades among students. Data collected through a survey of 150 primary students and interviews with several Chinese Language teachers, suggested that there was a likely association between mindset and grades, and between motivation and grades. Further study is necessary to verify the findings of the current study.

14 THE DIAPER PROJECT Poster NICHOLAS YONG YOONG-YAO

Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Ms Suzanne Chia Hsu San

This project aimed to determine the absorbency of five different popular brands of diapers, and to determine whether costlier diapers were more absorbent. An experiment was conducted to determine how much water each brand of diaper could absorb before it leaked. To ensure reliability of results, the same experiment was repeated three times. The findings showed that there was no association between the price of the diaper and its absorbency. Higher cost could be due to the design and branding of the diaper.


CONCERNS PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS HAVE ABOUT THEM GOING TO SCHOOL

RAFAEL SOH WEI CHUAN Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Mr Chua Boon How

In the article “More special needs children joining regular schools” (The Straits Times, November 19, 2012) it was reported that children with special needs made up a growing proportion of Singapore’s population, and the number in mainstream schools had doubled from about 5000 in 2006 to 10,000 in 2012. The aim of this project was to find out the concerns of parents with regard to their special needs children’s education. A survey of 40 respondents revealed that the main areas of concerns were socialisation within the school and support provided for these children. Interviews carried out with both teachers and parents also showed that socialisation was a major concern. In view of the concern on socialisation, schools should consider deploying allied educators to help special needs children socialise and interact with their classmates.

16 STARTING A SAFE CYCLING PROGRAMME IN ALL PRIMARY SCHOOLS Poster ROY NG KAI LEONG

Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-Supervisor: Ms Thum Chuay Lin

The aim of this project was to find out if a safe cycling programme should be introduced in Singapore primary schools. Through surveying 130 students from CHS (Primary), one key finding was that 68% of the respondents wanted to learn cycling or wanted to improve their cycling skills if there was a cycling programme in the school. Professional cyclists as well as specialists from the Land Transport Authority and the School Safety Unit (Ministry of Education) were also interviewed. They shared that (a) our roads were motorist-centric, (b) a more cyclist-centric road should be present before a cycling program could be introduced in schools, and (c) various government agencies were working on introducing a safe cycling programme. From the survey and the interview data, it seemed that a safe cycling programme was indeed desired and relevant.

NO. ABSTRACT 17 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF PULAU UBIN Oral CALEB WERN SHIH LOH

Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-supervisor: Ms Thum Chuay Lin

The government announced plans to seek ideas on protecting Pulau Ubin, an island rich in biodiversity and heritage (The Straits Times, March 11, 2014). This project aimed to find out what the general public and the stakeholders feel should be preserved in Pulau Ubin. Public opinion was obtained by surveying 122 Singapore residents aged 10 to 57. Personnel from the Ministry of National Development, NParks, Singapore Heritage Society, Nature Society of Singapore, WildSingapore and residents of Pulau Ubin were also interviewed. Among those surveyed, 49% felt that biodiversity should be preserved through eco-tourism, while 34% felt they wanted to preserve the ‘old village charm’. Experts interviewed generally agreed that greater involvement of the public and the stakeholders should be encouraged before implementing any plan. Findings from the survey supported the view held by the experts.

18 WHAT IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO STORE FROZEN MEAT? Oral RUSSELL NG JUNG HNG

Catholic High School (Primary) Teacher-supervisors: Mr Tan Cheng Kwang

This project aimed to find out the most effective way of storing raw meat in the freezer that would minimise freezer burn. An experiment was conducted over a period of three weeks, using raw lean pork of the same weight and similar size in storages made of different materials. These commonly available materials include freezer bag, cling film, aluminium foil, original packaging, airtight container, disposable plastic container and baking paper. The experiment involved measuring the surface area of freezer burn on the frozen meat once every week, for three weeks. The results indicated that freezer bag was most effective at inhibiting the proliferation of freezer burn on raw meat.


WHAT IS THE PERCEPTION OF P5 HPPS GEP BOYS ABOUT NATIONAL SERVICE?

ANZAWA MAKOTO REY KWAN Henry Park Primary School Teacher-supervisors: Mrs Chong Khim Ling, Mrs Tan Seng Chew Irene

National Service (NS) is mandatory for 18-year-old Singaporean males. The aim of the project was to find out the P5 GEP boys’ perception of NS and the factors that influenced their perceptions. A survey was conducted on 24 boys from Henry Park Primary School. The initial finding indicated that while most boys believed that values and life skills could be inculcated through NS, they did not look forward to NS due to factors such as perceived loss of freedom and family time. A talk about NS by a Singapore Armed Forces personnel was conducted to provide a better understanding of NS among the boys. The post-survey showed that the boys’ perception of NS improved and more boys shared that they look forward to NS after the talk.

20 SLEEP PATTERNS AND HABITS OF P5 HPPS GEP STUDENTS Poster WEI XINHUA, RAYDEN

Henry Park Primary School Teacher-supervisors: Ms Chong Khim Ling, Ms Irene Tan Seng Chew

The aim of the project was to understand the sleep patterns and habits among upper primary students of Henry Park Primary School (HPPS). Research shows that children aged five to 12 need at least nine to 10 hours of sleep daily. However, there is an increasing demand on their time to manage academic assignments, co-curricular activities and other enrichment programmes. Furthermore, many also spend time watching TV programmes and playing computer games – all of which can lead to difficulty falling asleep, nightmares and other sleep disruptions. Through conducting a survey with 35 P5 HPPS GEP students, it seemed that majority of the respondents (61%) did not have sufficient sleep. The finding suggested that the respondents need to review their sleep habits.

NO. ABSTRACT 21 BATTLEFIELD CHESS Poster GARETH ONG KEN RUI

Henry Park Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Nicholas Sin Sawrajen

Chess is a popular game that has been around for a long time but for young players, there are seldom exciting ways to play it. This may be due to a lack of ‘chance’ in traditional chess. Therefore, for this project, a chess variant game called Battlefield Chess was invented to introduce the ‘chance’ factor in the game play. A questionnaire was administered on a group of 60 young chess players between the age of seven and 12 from two chess clubs after they have played with Battlefield Chess during their chess practice session and during a local tournament. The aim was to gather their opinion on Battlefield Chess. The data showed that Battlefield Chess was popular in the group sampled. Most players indicated that they would recommend the game and even buy it.

22 BATTERY RECYCLING Oral NOELLE LEOW LE XUAN

Henry Park Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Nicholas Sin Sawrajen

Batteries are harmful to the environment if disposed of improperly. Harmful chemicals will be released into the atmosphere and will leach into the soil, affecting the ecosystem and food chains. The aim of this project was to find out the extent of battery recycling among HPPS GEP students and what could be done to encourage this practice among them. Findings from two surveys and an observation, where battery boxes were placed at the back of four classrooms to collect batteries over three months, revealed that the battery recycling rate was extremely low. Only one out of 20 students recycled their batteries. An interview conducted with an official from the National Environment Agency showed that Singapore imposes restrictions on the mercury content in batteries but does not have a nationwide battery recycling scheme. From this research, it can be concluded that there is a need for battery recycling in Singapore. More efforts such as education and having recycling bins implemented in schools may encourage more students to recycle used batteries.

NO. ABSTRACT 23 WOULD YOU EAT A PURPLE TOMATO? Oral TAN REN YING

Henry Park Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Yip Yew Fei

As biotechnology advances, more genetically modified (GM) foods are expected to enter the market in the near future. However, few people are aware of the presence of GM ingredients in the foods they consume daily. The objective of this project was to identify gaps in the level of knowledge of biotechnology such as key facts about biotechnology, the role of biotechnology in food production, its safety, costs, and benefits; as well as to gather consumers’ opinions on biotechnology. Through a survey conducted with 83 11-year-old GEP students, it was evident that majority of the respondents knew little about biotechnology, thus highlighting that there might be a need to educate students on this topic. Due to the lack of information on the topic, many respondents were also sceptical about this new technology. Topics such as biotechnology food safety, consumer benefits, environmental sustainability and food security can be included in the school syllabi; and can be introduced to consumers through documentaries, seminars, interactive online activities or school activities.

24 DO TABLET USERS WRITE MORE PERSUASIVELY? Poster GETZEL NG JINKAI

Nan Hua Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Au Zhi Jun

In 2012, the Talented and Gifted class at Nan Hua Primary School was introduced to the use of tablet as a learning tool for P4 to P5 students during English lessons. The aim of this study was to find out if students in a class that utilised the tablet as a learning tool had better persuasive writing skills compared to those in a class that did not utilise the tablet. Ten P5 students, five from a non-tablet class and five from a class that utilised the tablet as a learning tool, were recruited for this study. The students were given a task to write a persuasive message and their work was assessed by a teacher. The data suggested that students who came from the class which used the tablet performed better.

NO. ABSTRACT 25 WASTE FOOD AS FERTILISERS Poster GOH CHENG JUN, NICHOLAS, LEE AO XUAN, NEO TSAY YONG

Nan Hua Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Lee Ai Foon

The aim of the project was to compare and evaluate the effectiveness of using waste foods and waste products as an alternative to using commercial fertilisers on plants at home, since much food is wasted every day. An experiment was conducted on two plants, garden mint (Mentha sachaminensis) and sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum). Four pots for each plant with commercial fertiliser, pet fish excrement and waste foods, as well as a control were set up. The plants were grafted from the same parent plant to ensure genetic identity. The average length and the number of leaves were measured weekly over four weeks. This experiment was then repeated. The findings of the experiments suggested that commercial fertilisers did not consistently outperform the alternatives, and waste foods and waste products could be viable fertilisers for household plants.

26 Poster

WILL SCRABBLE HELP IN THE DIFFERENTIATION OF REAL AND FAKE ENGLISH WORDS?

KHOO WUI KONG, LEONG YU FAN Nan Hua Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Au Zhi Jun

The aim of this project was to find out if the popular board game Scrabble had an impact on the ability of players to differentiate between real and fake English words. Since many students play the game Scrabble, it would be interesting to find out if playing Scrabble would positively impact players’ vocabulary and spelling skills and help them to differentiate between real and fake English words. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups – one would play Scrabble and another would play Sudoku. Both groups of participants were instructed to play their respective game once for a duration of ten minutes. A word differentiation test was then administered on the participants. The findings of the experiment seemed to suggest that the participants in the Scrabble group indeed performed better in the word differentiation test compared to the participants who played Sudoku. However, further study is required to verify the findings of this study.

NO. ABSTRACT 27 AMOUNT OF SATURATED FATS IN YOGURT AND YOGURT DRINKS Poster LAM YU HAN, TEO JING YANG AND TOH JUN YEE

Nan Hua Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Sam Poh Fong

Our project group members love to have yogurt for breakfast. However, our mums tell us that yogurt drink may be a healthier choice for us since it contains less fat. Most foods contain several different kinds of fats, and some fats are better for our health than others. Unsaturated fats help to promote good health by reducing the risk of heart disease and improving blood cholesterol levels. Our project aimed to find out whether yogurt or yogurt drink had a higher level of unsaturated fats. The project investigated three of our favourite brands (A to C) for their levels of unsaturated fats. From the experiment, it was found that yogurt drinks of all three brands had higher levels of unsaturated fats than their corresponding yogurt. The findings seemed to suggest that yogurt drink of Brand A had the highest level of unsaturated fats. With our results, we hope to help consumers make an informed choice when they purchase yogurt products.

28 ANTS AWAY Poster LIM DAO KANG, RYAN KOH JUN HAO


Pesticides are commonly used in Singapore to prevent ant infestation.

However, most commercially available pesticides contain chemicals that are harmful to our health. The project aimed to investigate if there were natural remedies for ant control. If common items such as vinegar and lemon were used, it would provide for an inexpensive and environmentally friendly alternative to deter ants from infesting the house. Our experiment tested six substances (salt, vinegar, lemon, garlic, cinnamon and flour) to find out if they were effective in ant control. The results showed that garlic was the best deterrent in our experiment.


WHICH COLOUR OF CLOTHING ALLOWS PERSPIRATION TO EVAPORATE FASTER?

WANG YAN RONG, KEVIN Nan Hua Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Sam Poh Fong

My project aimed to find out which colour of clothing allowed perspiration to evaporate faster. Athletes usually perspire a lot during exercise. Perspiration can sometimes cause discomfort or block their vision and can increase the risk of injury. Clothing that allows perspiration to evaporate faster helps to cool the body and reduce the possibility of heat stroke. Results of my experiment showed that black-coloured clothes allowed the most amount of sweat to evaporate while white-coloured clothes allowed the least amount of sweat to evaporate. Findings from this research can aid athletes in the choice of colour to wear.

30 INEFFECTIVE USE OF SMARTPHONES Poster YANG NI MARIE

Nan Hua Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Shadidah Mokhtar

The invention of the smartphone has made our lives easier with numerous mobile apps (i.e., applications) to increase our productivity. Students in Singapore are often seen carrying smartphones but they may not know how to maximise their productivity with the apps in their smartphones. The aim of this project was to find out if Nan Hua Primary School P5 students were maximising the use of the Calendar and Email functions of their smartphones. A survey was conducted with the P5 Talented and Gifted students. The data suggested that the majority of the respondents were not using these functions on their phones effectively. A child-friendly booklet was created to share more information about these two apps and how students might use the two apps to work better and to be more efficient.

NO. ABSTRACT 31 FISHY TREATS! Oral LIM SING WEI


Neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi) is an extremely popular choice for a tropical aquarium as a shoal of brightly decorated neon tetras often adds colour as well as activity to the aquarium. The aim of this project was to find the best fish feed for neon tetras that would enhance their appearance. Experiments were conducted on four groups of four neon tetras, with each group having a different diet. Factors like convenience of food preparation, cost and fish appearance were taken into consideration. Based on the results, the neon tetras that were fed a mixture of normal flakes, special flakes and bloodworm had the most significant enhancement to their appearance.

32 ZODIAC SIGNS COMPATIBILITY Oral PHEOBE ONG HONG YING


This project aimed to seek a deeper understanding on why people relate to one another differently. It has been suggested that when the zodiac signs of two people are “highly compatible”, they tend to get along very well and reconcile more easily from a dispute. It would be very interesting to find out whether there is an association between firm friendship and compatibility of zodiac signs. A survey was conducted on 48 P5 GEP students in Nan Hua Primary School and the findings suggested that respondents perceived they could get along very well with others bearing compatible zodiac signs.

NO. ABSTRACT 33 UNSATURATED FATS IN DIFFERENT COOKING OILS Oral TAN TE QUAN


There are many types of cooking oil available in the market and some are deemed healthier than others. The aim of the project was to find out the healthiest cooking oil by comparing the amount of unsaturated fats found in different types of cooking oil. The iodine solution, which could dissolve unsaturated fats in cooking oil, was used to measure the amount of unsaturated fats in different types of cooking oil in an experiment. Results showed that a drop of iodine solution dissolved fastest in corn oil, this might imply that corn oil had the highest content of unsaturated fats, and could possibly help to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

34 Poster

WHAT ARE THE FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE TYPES OF PEN P5 NYPS GEP STUDENTS USE?

ANGELINA NG XIU QI Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Geraldine Ortega

It has been observed that some NYPS students own many pens which they bought because these pens were seen as trendy. This project sought to understand how students decided on the type(s) of pen they chose to purchase. Responses from 73 NYPS JKL META students were collected from a survey. Findings showed that the decision to purchase a pen was based on pen features like ink quality, and personal preference. Students also assigned different brands of pen for specific uses. For example, Brands A and C were preferred for use in examinations. For students who own many pens, they should consider donating some to the ‘Save that Pen!’ movement to avoid wastage.

NO. ABSTRACT 35 STRESS RELIEF BY A FURRY PAW Poster ANIKA W LEE XUEN

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Geraldine Ortega

The aim of this project was to find out if pets could help relief stress of P5 GEP NYPS students. The P5 curriculum is typically the heaviest of the three upper primary levels. P5 GEP students participate in a greater number of enrichment activities, as well as undertake independent and collaborative projects. The additional work may lead to stress for the students. Pets have been known to relieve stress for their owners. Thirty-five P5 NYPS GEP students, who owned pets, were identified and invited to participate in a survey. Among them, 50% reported that their pets helped to relieve stress. With the result at 50%, further research will be required to verify the extent as to why and how pets may help to relieve stress.

36 ANIMAL ABUSE – HOW MUCH DO WE KNOW? Poster ARETHA PEK

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Miss Carel Chee

Studies have shown that mistreatment of animals has become a pertinent issue in many countries. In Singapore, there was an increase in the number of complaints received by the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) from 400 in 2011 to 480 in 2012. The aim of the research project was to find out if P5 GEP students in Nanyang Primary School knew what actions would be considered animal abuse or mistreatment. A survey was conducted on 75 P5 GEP students. Findings showed that while most respondents were aware of common types of animal abuse, many had little knowledge of other types of abuse such as catch-and-release fishing. This research suggested that more could be done to educate students about animal abuse.

NO. ABSTRACT 37 RESEARCH ON FACTORS THAT AFFECT HEIGHT GAIN Poster BOO TSE YANG LUCAS

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Cindy Aw

It has been observed that some students are much taller than others even though the students are of the same chronological age. The aim of the project was to determine the factors that affect height gain. A survey was administered to a convenience sample of 44 P5 GEP students. Findings showed that variation in height could be linked to the amount of supplements taken and the height of the respondents’ parents. Further studies will be needed to verify the observed relationships.

38 Poster

WHICH TYPE OF FRUIT JUICE HAS THE LOWEST GLUCOSE CONCENTRATION?

CHARISSE PEH Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Yeong-Tan Chuan Lim

The aim of the project was to find out which type of fruit juice had the lowest glucose concentration. Different fruit juices have different levels of sweetness. Too much glucose concentrate in fruit juice may not be good for one’s health. Diabetic patients who have difficulty processing sugar in their body will need extra care when consuming sugared drinks. An experiment was carried out to determine the sugar level found in common fruit juices such as lime juice. Results showed that lime juice had the lowest glucose concentration among the fruit juices tested and might be suitable for diabetic patients to consume occasionally.

NO. ABSTRACT 39 THE REASONS BEHIND P5 NYPS META STUDENTS’ CHOICE Of CCAs Poster KEVIN QUAH

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Mohamad Sapiee bin Mohamad Sabar

In Singapore, students are required to join at least one co-curricular activity (CCA) in school. This is to provide a balance between academic and non-academic excellence. Hence, the aim of the research was to find out the reasons behind the decisions made by students in choosing their CCAs. A survey questionnaire was administered to 90 Nanyang Primary School P5 META students participating in various CCAs. In general, the findings showed that the main reasons for choosing a particular CCA in school were personal interest and parents’ suggestions. CCA teachers-in-charge could use the results from this study to better ‘market’ their CCAs and attract students to join their CCAs.

40 INTERNET ADDICTION – IS IT A PERCEIVED OR REAL PROBLEM? Poster KOH ZI NING, GRACE

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Serene Yeo Ai Ho

The aim of this research was to find out if P5 GEP students were addicted to the Internet. While the Internet may be an important tool for communication, some children have neglected their studies and other responsibilities, as they spent an excessive amount of time on the Internet. A survey was conducted with a convenience sample of 51 GEP students in NYPS. While most students did not see themselves as having an addiction problem, close analysis of the survey data pointed to tell-tale signs of a burgeoning problem. There is an urgent need to help these students develop greater self-control in using the Internet before it becomes an addiction.

NO. ABSTRACT 41 DOES CLASSICAL MUSIC REALLY HELP YOU TO FOCUS? Poster LAUREN YEO JEN-YIN

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Mok Sze Hui

The aim of this project was to find out if classical music helps to improve a person’s focus. Studies have yielded differing views on the usefulness of classical music in helping people to focus better. An experiment was conducted to examine the effect of different music genres on short-term concentration. A convenience sample of 50 respondents was asked to play a mobile app (i.e., application) game, while listening to classical or heavy metal; and not listening to any music. Although results from the experiment were inconclusive, more respondents seemed to focus better when they were listening to classical music.

42 DO P5 GEP STUDENTS ENJOY HAWKER FOOD? Poster LOKE SZE IAN JOEL

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Chan Tai Yao

Hawker food with its cheap and wide offering is very popular with Singaporeans. However, hawker centres appear to lose their appeal as people opt for air-conditioned food venues such as restaurants. The aim of the study was to find out if today’s children still enjoy hawker food and eating at hawker centres. A survey was conducted with 66 P5 GEP students. The study showed that the respondents still liked eating hawker food for various reasons. By understanding the reasons why children today like hawker food, we may be able to preserve a unique food heritage in Singapore.

NO. ABSTRACT 43 WHICH BRAND OF BABY DIAPERS IS THE MOST ABSORBENT? Poster LUCINDA LI LUYUN

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Vo Van Hung

Diapers are one of the most essential items that parents with young children will need. The aim of this project was to help parents find out which brand of baby diapers was the most absorbent. One hundred and six parents with diaper-wearing children were identified and invited to participate in a survey. Findings showed that absorbency was the most important criterion parents looked for in a diaper. Findings also showed that certain brands were more popular with the parents. An experiment was then conducted to ascertain the absorbency of these different brands of diaper. Findings showed that the most popular brand indeed was the most absorbent diaper.

44 WHAT GENRE OF BOOKS DO THE P5 NYPS GEP STUDENTS LIKE TO READ? Poster ODELE PANG KUN TING

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Ho Siew Gek Catherine

In Singapore, reading books is an activity thoroughly enjoyed by children. As such, parents often buy books for their children. However, there may have been cases where the genres of books bought by the parents are not enjoyed by the children. As such, the aim of this project was to find out the types of genres of books NYPS P5 GEP students like to read. A survey questionnaire was administered to 100 students. Findings showed that the top three genres enjoyed by students of this group were Adventure, Myths and Legends, and Fantasy. With the findings, it is hoped that parents will be able to understand the reading preferences of their children better.

NO. ABSTRACT 45 BOOKS THAT INTEREST THE P5 NYPS GEP STUDENTS Poster PHEBE LEW YU

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Geraldine Ortega

Reading plays an important role in raising literacy in schools and as a form of recreation for children. Encouraging children to read and to use the school library more often is needed. The aim of this study was to find out the genres of books that interest primary students. A survey of 50 P5 NYPS GEP students, through convenience sampling, was conducted. Findings showed that respondents had certain preferences with regard to content, character, setting and language. The data also indicated that the respondents tended to acquire books from bookstores and public libraries, but not the school library. This gives rise to a concern of under-utilisation of the school library despite its proximity to these students. The findings from the survey might be useful to the librarians in helping them purchase books that would encourage more students to borrow books from the school library to read.

46 Poster

HOW MUCH DO P5 NYPS GEP/META STUDENTS KNOW ABOUT HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS AND THE BEST WAY TO INCREASE THE AWARENESS OF HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS

QUEK KAY HNG Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Ng Lih Pyng

Although health supplements may benefit one’s health, not many people consume them. The aim of the project was to find out how much NYPS P5 GEP/META students know about health supplements and how to improve their knowledge about them. A survey was carried out with 167 P5 NYPS GEP/META students. The data suggested that the respondents did not eat health supplements and most preferred to learn about health supplements from the Internet, books, or through their relatives. If increasing awareness about the benefits of health supplements is indeed appreciated by the school student population, then information may be disseminated through talks and by directing them to informative Internet sources or books.

NO. ABSTRACT 47 MY IDEAL MUSIC LESSON Poster TAN JIECONG

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Serene Yeo Ai Ho

The aim of the project was to find out how P5 NYPS students rated their experiences of music lessons in school, and their thoughts on what made a music lesson enjoyable. Students shared that they yearned for more interesting music lessons and easier to manage music projects. A census was carried on the P5 NYPS students to collect their opinions. The data showed that the respondents preferred learning how to play a musical instrument, how to write a song, and how to do a rap during music lessons. Many respondents preferred each music lesson to be held weekly, lasting an hour. This study may help in the design of the music curriculum, and lead to more satisfying music lessons.

48 Poster

HOW MANY P5 NYPS GEP STUDENTS ATTEND CLASSES AT LEARNING CENTRE X AND ARE THEY HAPPY WITH THE WORKSHEETS THERE?

YEO KAI NING CHARLOTTE Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Chan Tai Yao

Students who attend classes at Learning Centre X have commented that worksheets produced by the centre are comparatively more challenging and better presented for reading. The aim of this research was to find out from the students who attend classes at the centre, their views regarding the features of the worksheets from the centre that they found useful. A survey was conducted with 75 P5 NYPS GEP students who attended classes at Learning Centre X. They commented that the centre’s worksheets contained challenging questions and the questions were useful for revising for examinations. This information may be useful for teachers and they may incorporate these features into the worksheets they develop.

NO. ABSTRACT 49 Oral

DOES KNOWING HOW TO SPEAK THE SAME DIALECT AS YOUR GRANDPARENTS HELP IN STRENGTHENING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN P5 NYPS GEP STUDENTS AND THEIR GRANDPARENTS?

GOH SHI SIEN SARAH Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Catherine Low

The number of dialect-speaking Chinese amongst the younger generation has reduced over time. The question is whether the relationship between the younger and older generation has been hindered by a possible language barrier. The aim of the research was to see if knowing how to speak the same dialect helped to strengthen the relationship between P5 GEP students in Nanyang Primary School and their grandparents. A survey questionnaire was administered to 100 P5 GEP students. Findings suggested that speaking the same dialect did help to strengthen the relationship between these students and their grandparents.

50 FINDING A LINK BETWEEN SPATIAL VISUALISATION AND MUSIC Oral JENNIFER GOH ZHEN NI

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Chan-Mok Sze Hui

The aim of this project was to find out if learning music would improve one’s Spatial Visualisation Skills (SVS). Although research seems to show a link between Music and SVS, it was unclear if this link was also true for NYPS P5 GEP students. For this study, a music learner was defined as one who had achieved a pass in ABRSM Grade 5 theory. Data were collected through a survey and SVS test. Seventy-two P5 GEP students participated in the study. Results showed that students with music training did not perform better than those without. Boys with training in music seemed to have improved their SVS as compared to girls. Overall, boys generally performed better in the SVS test compared to girls.


EFFECTIVENESS OF THERMOTHERAPY IN SLOWING THE SPOILAGE OF GRAPES

LAW QIAO YUAN ANN Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Yeong-Tan Chuan Lim

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of thermotherapy in slowing the spoilage of grapes. Thermotherapy is believed to slow spoilage of fruits. It is also safer as it uses heat instead of chemicals. An experiment was conducted, which immersed grapes in water at various temperatures and durations. The number of grapes that turned soft or mouldy for each temperature-duration group was recorded daily. This study

found that grapes heated at 50C for 90 seconds had the lowest rate of

softening, while grapes heated at 50C for 120 seconds was the most effective in slowing mould growth.

52 STUDY OF MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT PERCENTAGE Oral LOW CHOO RAY

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Vo Van Hung

Past studies have shown that many people have misconceptions about percentage. The aim of this project was to find out the extent of misconceptions about percentage among people from different age groups in Singapore. A convenience sample of 261 respondents from age 11 to 67 was put through a test to check their understanding of percentage and percentage change. Findings showed that misconceptions about percentage remain prevalent, with 30% to 50% of the respondents giving the wrong answer to each problem. Common misconceptions were identified so that appropriate measures could be taken to rectify them.

NO. ABSTRACT 53 HOW TO BEST PREVENT METAL OXIDATION AT HOME Oral OOI WEI CHERN

Nanyang Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Chiang Lih Pyng

Home appliances; school trophies and medals; and ornaments with metal parts are known to rust, that is oxidise, over time. As Singapore is hot and humid, metals become easily oxidised even in room conditions. The aim of this study was to find out the best way to prevent oxidation at home. An experiment was carried to measure the rate and extent of oxidation of different metals under various conditions. Results have shown that a cool and dry storage environment slowed down oxidation. To best store and prevent the metals from oxidising, desiccators could be used to reduce humidity. If you want to display the metals, the metals should preferably be stored in a sealed glass cabinet with a desiccant in it.

54 THE EFFECTS OF INSTANT MESSAGING ON 60 TEENAGERS FROM A CHURCH Poster CHLOE GUO YITIAN

Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Rayhanah Mohd

The aim of this research study was to find out if the use of instant messaging among teenagers from a local church would cause them to be unwilling to communicate with others face-to-face or on the phone. It has been observed that every time an extended family (consisting of three or more generations) goes out for dinner, most teenagers would immediately whip out their smartphones and start tapping away. This study aimed to seek a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. Through a survey of 60 teenagers from the local church, it was found that the use of instant messaging did not cause the respondents to avoid communicating with others face-to-face, but it caused them to avoid calling others on the phone.

NO. ABSTRACT 55 PROTECTION FOR OUR SKIN FROM UVA AND UVB RAYS IN SINGAPORE Poster CHRISTEN ONG EN YA


Excessive exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun has been proven to cause skin cancers. Since Singapore is located near the equator, UVA and UVB levels are one of the highest in the world. In the last decade, skin cancer has climbed approximately 40.5% to become the sixth most common cancer affecting Singaporeans. Prevention is better than cure. The aim of this project was to find out which types of fabric provide the best UV protection for our skin. A series of experiments was conducted, and results revealed that denim, satin and polyester filtered out the most UVA and UVB rays. Knowledge of these findings can help one to make informed choices for effective skin protection on a sunny day.

56 EMOTIONAL IMPACT OF SPANKING ON CHILDREN Poster GWEN YEO WENNING

Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Ee Bee Yian

The aim of the project was to gain a better understanding of the emotional impact of spanking on children. In a recent newspaper article, a pair of parents in Sweden was jailed for spanking their child. Though spanking is a criminal offence in 34 countries, it is not the case in Singapore. It is worthwhile to explore the views of some children on spanking. Through a survey of 40 children in the age group between nine and 11, it could be concluded that majority of the respondents were more fearful of the pain caused by spanking rather than feeling remorse for their mistake, and their fear seemed to contribute to the straining of parent-child relationship.

NO. ABSTRACT 57 EFFECT OF ALKALINE WATER ON PLANT GROWTH Poster LEE YUAN XI

Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Seah Nam Sin

The aim of this project was to find out if alkaline water affected the growth of Pompon Dahlia (Dahlia spp.). An experiment was carried out by watering the seeds of Pompon Dahlia daily with water of pH value 7.2, 8.2 and 9. The alkaline water used in the experiments was bought from the supermarket. It was observed that the seeds watered with alkaline water at pH 9 had a higher germination and growth rate.

58 Poster

HOW MUCH TIME DO P5 RGPS GEP STUDENTS SPEND WITH THEIR GRANDPARENTS?

MEGAN CHEAH SHI QI Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Phan Wai Mun

The aim of this research was to find out how much time P5 RGPS GEP students spent with their grandparents. Nowadays, there are more nuclear than extended families. This might affect the amount of time that grandparents and children could spend together. Through a survey conducted on 66 RGPS students, it was found that, on average, respondents who stayed with their grandparents spent more than 10 hours together every day. On the other hand, those who did not stay with their grandparents who were living in Singapore spent only five hours each week with their grandparents and those whose grandparents lived overseas met their grandparents for 167 hours every year. The most common activity respondents did with their grandparents was chatting and a majority mentioned that they enjoyed spending time with their grandparents.

NO. ABSTRACT 59 HOW TO PRESERVE THE LIFE OF WHITE ROSES Poster ONG JIA EN RAEANNE

Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Audrey Ong

The aim of the project was to find out the most economical way to prevent cut white roses (Rosa jacare) from wilting. Cut white roses wilt and discolour very quickly. An experiment was conducted by placing the stem of cut roses in 150 ml of water and solutions of soda, bleach, sugar, crushed aspirin and apple cider vinegar to investigate how their lifespan would be affected. It was observed that the rose which stem was placed in sugar solution took the longest time to turn brown compared to water and the other solutions and hence was concluded to be the most effective way to prevent cut white roses from wilting.

60 PROTECTION FROM CELLULAR RADIATION Poster SEN NABONITA

Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Miss Ker Lay Peng

While many kids around the world use smartphones, they do not know that radiation from smart phones could be harmful to their health. An experiment was conducted to determine which common material was most effective for minimising the radio frequency (RF) exposure from smartphones. A specialised radio-frequency shielding fabric was also used in the experiment to find out if it actually shielded radiation better than everyday materials. Data on the amount of radiation each material was able to shield off were collected. It was found that the best RF shielding material was aluminium foil, followed by wire mesh and the specialised RF shielding fabric.

NO. ABSTRACT 61 HOW TO MITIGATE OIL SPILLS IN SINGAPORE Poster THAM YUN JING


The aim of this project was to inform the public and educate them about major oil spills in the Strait of Singapore as well as pollution in the sea, and their effects on the marine ecosystem. An interview was held with a fleet manager of a shipping company to find out how and why oil spills happen, the repercussions of an oil spill and how the general public can play a part in mitigating the negative impact of oil spills. These include participating in beach clean-ups, contacting National Environment Agency when they see an oil spill and informing the rest of the public through social media platforms to raise awareness about oil spills. They can also volunteer to help the animals affected by oil spills.

62 Poster

HOW DO VISUALLY-IMPAIRED PEOPLE AT DIALOGUE IN THE DARK COPE WITH THEIR BLINDNESS?

ZHOU XIN YAN Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Elaine Chong

The aim of this project was to find out the difficulties that visually impaired faced so as to raise awareness among the general public on ways to help them. Through interviews with four visually-handicapped guides at Dialogue In the Dark, it was revealed that people did not take the initiative to help those who were visually-impaired. The difficulties that the visually impaired faced and their preferred solutions to these problems were also surfaced. The findings from this research provided information on the kind of initiatives or structures that could be put in place to help the visually impaired cope with their disability.

NO. ABSTRACT 63 #SELFIE_INFLUENZA Oral KOO LI

Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Ee Bee Yian

Selfies, one of the “top 10 buzzwords” considered by Time magazine in 2012, gained popularity especially among the younger people. However, with this selfie revolution, does one perceive such a trend as a growing indication of self-expression or narcissism or simply to boost one’s self-esteem? The aim of this research was to find out how the taking of selfies would impact P5 RGPS girls affectively. Through a survey conducted with both the GEP and mainstream students, some of the factors on why students enjoyed taking selfies were surfaced. For example, it was found that students took selfies to share scenic photographs with others rather than to show off their good looks.

64 Oral

HOW DO P5 GEP GIRLS IN RGPS FEEL ABOUT WOMEN TAKING UP NATIONAL SERVICE?

MELISSA HOCK Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Elaine Chong

The aim of this research was to find out if P5 GEP girls in RGPS hold a negative view of National Service (NS). The stereotypical view seems to be that females perceived NS as undesirable and will prefer to have nothing to do with it. Through a survey on the P5 GEP girls in RGPS, the research findings revealed that the respondents thought that there was a part for everyone to play in defending the nation. Although they felt that women were not ready to be enlisted for NS, they were supportive of NS being made voluntary for females. The findings also revealed some perceived disadvantages and deterrents to NS. These perceptions should be considered when encouraging more women to take up NS in the future.

NO. ABSTRACT 65 NANOPARTICLES CAN ENTER GREEN BEANS AND AFFECT ITS GROWTH Oral XUE LETAO HANNAH

Raffles Girls’ Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Seah Nam Sin

The rapid development and potential release of engineered nanoparticles into the environment have raised considerable concerns. The present investigation demonstrated the uptake and effect of nano-Fe3O4 on the growth of green bean (Vigna radiata) seedlings. The study was carried out on hydroponically grown seedlings in two concentrations of nano-Fe3O4. The uptake and accumulation of nano-Fe3O4 in the roots of the seedlings were confirmed when they were attracted to a magnet placed near the seedlings. Nano-Fe3O4 was observed to have significant inhibition on shoot, leaf and root growth of green bean seedlings when compared to the control. Higher concentration of nano-Fe3O4 was also found to exhibit stronger negative effect on the seedlings. This study indicated that nanoparticles could enter plants and stunt plant growth.

66 Poster

DO THE DIFFERENT SITTING POSTURES OF STUDENTS AFFECT THEIR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN SCHOOL?

DHRUV PRAVEEN Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Toh Shimin

Adults often tell children to sit up straight. However, contrary to popular belief, sitting with a very straight back is actually bad for one’s back. There is a worrying trend that students tend to overlook their sitting postures and have various incorrect postures. This study aimed to find out how one’s sitting posture might affect his/her academic performance. After analysing the results of a survey involving 53 P5 Rosyth students and studying the video recordings of a class of 24 P5 students, it seemed that the students who had good sitting postures tended to fare better in examinations as compared to those who had poor sitting postures.


HOW EFFECTIVE ARE BRANDED DISHWASHING LIQUIDS COMPARED TO HOUSE BRAND DISHWASHING LIQUIDS?

GUAN YONG EN, JUSTINIAN Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Helen Tan

The aim of the project was to find out whether inexpensive brands of dishwashing liquids could be as effective as the more expensive ones. Three brands of detergent were chosen for this test. An oil test and a stain test (coffee stain) were used to examine the effectiveness of the three brands of detergents. Interestingly, findings from the data gathered found that the less expensive detergents had the same level of effectiveness as the more expensive ones in removing grease and coffee stains. The findings from this project may help consumers make informed choices about the brand of dishwashing liquid to purchase from the market.

68 WHAT ARE THE KEY ATTRIBUTES OF A GOOD PAIR OF BADMINTON SHOES? Poster HENG RUI JIE, REX

Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Helen Tan

The aim of the project was to find the key attributes of a good pair of shoes for playing badminton, and prioritising these attributes. There are many brands of badminton shoes in the market and each brand claims to possess the attributes of a good pair of badminton shoes. However, some of these attributes such as comfort, lightweight and durability may not be as important as others. After conducting a survey on 40 badminton players and several coaches, a majority of the respondents commented that comfort and grip were the top two key attributes of a good pair of badminton shoes. The findings of this study may help badminton players make informed choices when buying a pair of badminton shoes.

NO. ABSTRACT 69 INVESTIGATING THE P5 INTEGRATION PROGRAMME IN ROSYTH SCHOOL Poster JOVVY CHEN

Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Tan Hui Yi, Faith

The aim of this project was to find out if P5 GEP students in Rosyth School enjoyed their experiences in the school’s Integration Programme. The programme provided the platform for the GEP and high-ability students to spend between one-third to half of their curriculum time together daily. A survey was administered to 35 P5 GEP students and 35 non-GEP students. The respondents were asked for their perception about their learning experiences for the various subjects that were included in the Integration Programme. Findings from the research challenged and refuted the belief that the majority of GEP students did not like the Integration Programme. In fact, the respondents provided many suggestions on how the Integration Programme could be improved to make the experience even better. The findings of this research may be shared with the school management to help make the Integration Programme an even better one for the students.

70 Poster

DOES CLASSICAL MUSIC IMPROVE THE GEP STUDENTS’ LEVEL OF CONCENTRATION?

JUSTIN CHENG MING HEARN Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Toh Shimin

The project aimed to find out if classical music affected the level of concentration of the P5 GEP Rosyth students. If their concentration could be improved, students might be able to do better in their studies. A study was conducted on 24 P5 students. Participants completed two similar pen-and-paper tests, one with classical music being played, and one without the music. Participants were then given a survey to examine their perception of their level of concentration as they completed the pen-and-paper tests with and without classical music. Interestingly, while a majority of the participants felt that they could concentrate better with music, or that music did not affect their concentration, results indicated that participants generally performed more poorly in the test when classical music was played. Further studies should be conducted to verify the findings.

NO. ABSTRACT 71 DISAPPEARANCE OF DIALECTS Poster KIEW JIAN PENG DELON

Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm R Parvathy

The aim of the project was to find out whether P5 GEP students in Rosyth School were aware of their dialect groups and whether they think that dialects were important. Dialects represent a cultural link and the disappearance of dialects may lead to students being unaware of their ancestors’ backgrounds. Through conducting a survey on 55 P5 GEP students, it seemed that most respondents knew their dialect groups but could not speak dialects. Despite that, they did not have problems communicating with their grandparents. As a result, most students felt that dialects were not important. However, if dialects are important cultural links, then it is important to educate students about the history of their ancestors from the various dialect groups.

72 ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLINESS OF P5 RS GEP STUDENTS Poster WONG RYAN

Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm R Parvathy

To inculcate the good habits of conservation, Rosyth School has been active in its Green Movement to raise awareness and promote students’ participation in recycling. The aim of this project was to find out how environmentally friendly Rosyth P5 GEP students were. The project also aimed to find out how the school’s efforts had helped to change the environmental habits of the students. Through a survey conducted on 38 P5 GEP students, it seemed that the respondents were generally not environmentally friendly. However, there was a small increase in the number of students being environmentally friendly during the school Green programme. The end-product of this research included some recommendations to promote the green movement throughout the year.

NO. ABSTRACT 73 HOW RELIABLE ARE CHILDPROOF CONTAINERS? Oral AKIEL SHAHAN ISKANDAR

Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Debbie Lam

The aim of the project was to test the reliability of childproof containers found in the Singapore product market. Despite manufacturers packing medicinal and cleaning products into childproof containers, young children are still able to defeat the safety mechanisms and this increases the risk of accidental poisoning. Two methods, an experiment with 30 children from a childcare centre, aged four to five, as well as a survey with 20 adults, proved that over 80% of the children at the childcare centre succeeded in opening the childproof containers and almost all the survey respondents were shocked at the experimental outcome. The research had created awareness on the lack of reliability of childproof containers. The survey respondents also gave good suggestions on the measures to prevent accidental poisoning.

74 Oral

HOW ARE P5 GEP STUDENTS IN RS COPING WITH THEIR SCHOOLWORK AND CCAS?

GOH JUN TONG SAMANTHA Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Tan Hui Yi, Faith

The aim of this project was to find out if P5 GEP students in Rosyth School were coping well with their school workload and CCAs involvement. A survey was administered to 69 P5 GEP students. The respondents were asked about their school workload and the CCAs that they were involved in. Majority of the respondents felt that they could cope with their workload and CCAs. However, they felt that they would be able to cope better with a reduced workload. It was hoped that through this project, the P5 GEP teachers could understand how future batches of P5 GEP students may feel and provide them with some help so that the students can learn to manage their work better.

NO. ABSTRACT 75 EFFECTIVENESS OF DIFFERENT LAUNDRY DETERGENTS Oral LEO XI NING

Rosyth School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Debbie Lam

Laundry detergents play an essential role in our lives. Studies have shown that people are generally willing to pay more for branded and liquid detergents as they feel that these are more effective. The aim of this project was to find out the effectiveness of different laundry detergents by comparing branded and house brand, as well as liquid and powder detergents. An experiment was carried out using four brands of detergent to remove three types of stains - chocolate, coffee and grease. The results of the experiment suggested that branded liquid and powder detergents were more effective than house brand liquid and powder detergents, hence justifying the higher cost. The findings of this research may inform consumers who want to know which type of laundry detergent is likely to be more value for money.

76 SUSTAINABLE LIVING Poster JOHNSON KATHIRAVAN

Saint Hilda’s Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Tan Boon Tee

Sustainable living practices ensure that planet Earth and all of its resources can provide a home for its inhabitants for as long as possible. The aim of this project was to raise awareness of the importance of sustainable living. A survey was conducted with 100 SHPS GEP students to determine the types of practices that they were adopting to promote environmental sustainability as well as the triggers and barriers for such practices. The common behavioural practices that respondents were adopting to promote environmental sustainability include switching off electrical appliances when not in use, practising the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) and minimising water-use. Factors that motivated them to do so included the desire to reduce waste, to mitigate climate change and the passion to protect human viability on Earth. Barriers that were against such practices included the misconception that it was expensive to do so, the lack of support structure and lack of motivation, and being overwhelmed by the prospect of thinking about yet another issue.

NO. ABSTRACT 77 AGE, GENDER AND TECHNOPHOBIA Poster LOW NOAH

Saint Hilda’s Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Kong Leng Chee

The purpose of this study was to understand the state of technophobia among adults in Singapore between 41 and 70 years old. Technophobia can be explained as a feeling of anxiety and a person’s attitude towards computers. Using stratified random sampling, a total of 60 respondents were invited to respond to a survey. Results revealed that the older respondents tended to have greater anxiety and a less willing attitude to learn how to use a computer, with respondents in the 61-70 age group being more technophobic than respondents in the 51-60 and 41-50 age groups. Females tended to experience greater anxiety but were more willing to learn how to use a computer. The findings on age and gender differences in technophobia were discussed in the context of sustaining an aging workforce in Singapore.

78 WELL-BEING OF STUDENTS IN SHPS Poster YAP XIAO HUI

Saint Hilda’s Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Kong Leng Chee

Students’ well-being in school is important for healthy development. The aim of this project was to examine the well-being of P3 to P5 students in Saint Hilda’s Primary School. A survey measuring students’ happiness level, school satisfaction, school enjoyment, feelings of autonomy and competence, peer relationship and test anxiety was administered to 382 students. It was found that measures on well-being decreased as students grew older with the P5 students having the least favourable reports in most of the measures. P4 students reported the highest happiness level, likely to be associated with better peer relationship and higher feeling of autonomy. The findings may provide useful information for the school in their work in improving the well-being of students in the school.

NO. ABSTRACT 79 LAUGHTER AND WELL-BEING IN THE CLASSROOM Oral

JOY LOKE JIA HUAN, JANELLE LIOW ENQI, ASHLEY CHEO Saint Hilda’s Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Kong Leng Chee

The aim of the project was to find out whether infusing laughter in the classroom would improve students’ well-being. In this study, well-being was measured using the students’ self-reported levels of happiness, affect, stress and test anxiety. Using a single-blind experimental design, the experimental group was shown humourous videos for a school term and pre- and post-tests measures on well-being were compared against a control group. Findings suggested that induced laughter in the classroom could improve a participant’s happiness level, reduce stress and buffer against negative affect. The findings suggested a possible way in which teachers and students could enhance classroom learning experiences and improve general well-being of students.

80 EFFECTIVENESS OF THE SHPS EAT A BALANCED MEAL PROGRAMME Oral LIM KIAT YANG RYAN

Saint Hilda’s Primary School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Tan Boon Tee

The aim of this project was to evaluate the effectiveness of the school’s Eat a Balanced Meal Programme. According to research by the Health Promotion Board, only 25% of children aged seven to twelve years old in Singapore consume the recommended servings of vegetables and fruits daily. Through conducting a survey of 90 GEP students, it was found that the survey respondents understood the benefits of eating a healthy set meal and 82% had consumed more fruits and 67% had consumed more vegetables in the school. However, 35% of the respondents thought that the meals offered were expensive and 23% felt that there was a limited choice in the menu. Data were also gathered through observations over a 3-month period in the school canteen during recess. It was found that vegetables were the most common type of food that was wasted, especially cucumbers. Measures on improving the programme were proposed.

NO. ABSTRACT 81 SHOULD P5 STUDENTS BE ALLOWED TO COOK AT HOME AT THEIR AGE? Poster CHAN NING

Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Ngoh Sze Wei

The project aimed to find out the concerns that Tao Nan School (TNS) P5 parents had with regard to their child cooking at home as it might be dangerous. After conducting a survey on 200 TNS P5 parents, it was found that most parents were generally concerned about sharp knives and the danger of using the stove. To address the concerns of parents, a simple recipe book was created. The book suggests various methods for ensuring the safety of a child when he/she is cooking and it also encourages children to cook at home with adult supervision.

82 DO CARBONATED SPORTS DRINKS CORRODE TEETH? Poster KOH SHAO YANG AIDAN

Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Charlene Goh Shan Mei

A study published in the journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (2012) showed that after five days of drinking sports drinks, the tooth’s enamel suffered extensive damage, otherwise known as corrosion. The aim of the project was to find out the main ingredient present in carbonated sports drink that would heighten the speed of tooth corrosion. After conducting an experiment with four different carbonated sports drinks, it was concluded that Brand D had the most corrosive effect. It was found that all four brands contained citric acid, which was the main ingredient that sped up tooth corrosion. However, Brand D also contained sodium benzoate, a type of preservative that would increase the acidity of drinks.


THE DIFFERING VIEWS A FATHER AND HIS CHILD HAVE ON THEIR INTERACTION WITH EACH OTHER

LIM ZHENG YUEN Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Miss Padmanathan Jayasri

The aim of this project was to find out how a father and his child view interaction with one another. Research shows how fathers’ involvement could positively impact their children’s social, emotional and cognitive development. However, while a father may view his interaction with his child as meaningful, his child may not agree. Through conducting a perception survey of 44 fathers and 44 children from Tao Nan School, it seemed that while both agreed on the importance of a father’s involvement, in reality, fathers were not spending enough time with their children. This research hoped to shed light on the way both father and child view their interaction with one another. The finding might help to foster a better understanding and to promote a more meaningful interaction between them.

84 THE BEST METHOD TO SPEED UP FRUIT RIPENING Poster MATTHEW YAR KWOK JWAY

Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Ngoh Sze Wei

It was noticed that fruits bought were not all ripened for immediate consumption. Research shows that climacteric fruits are normally harvested hard and green. This piqued the interest of the researcher to find out what was the best method to speed up fruit ripening using items that could be commonly found at home. Experiments were conducted on two climacteric fruits, banana (Musa acuminata) and mango (Mangifera indica). A banana was placed in five different set-ups with and without an apple (Malus spp.). This was repeated for the mango. The findings showed that when the banana and mango were placed in a Ziploc bag with an apple, the ripening process was hastened. The addition of the climacteric fruit provided an additional source of ethylene for the banana and mango to ripen faster inside the enclosed bag. The enclosed bag helped to prevent ethylene from escaping.

NO. ABSTRACT 85 HAWKERS IN SINGAPORE Poster NEO HUI WEN

Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Gurung-Lee Chin Min

The aim of the research was to find out if the people in Singapore liked to eat at hawker centres and whether the younger generation was willing to work as hawkers. One view is that though hawker centres are considered as one of Singapore’s rich heritage, there are many factors that are threatening the continuity of hawker centres and the hawker trade. A survey was conducted to find out if this view was accurate. Based on the data obtained, respondents were still fond of eating at hawker centres. However, only 3% among the respondents were willing to be hawkers. This suggested that the future of hawker centres in Singapore might be at stake, though they remained popular with the locals for providing an affordable and tasty meal.

86 Poster

A STUDY ON HAPPINESS OF P5 TNS STUDENTS AND FACTORS THAT MIGHT CONTRIBUTE TO THEIR HAPPINESS

NG TZE YANG Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Ngoh Sze Wei

The study examined whether P5 students in Tao Nan School (TNS) were happy. The definition of happiness was based on the subjective well-being of the child. Students’ happiness was assessed using Faces Scale and Subjective Happiness Scale (Lyubomirsky and Lepper, 1999). Six factors affecting students’ happiness were investigated. They were (1) physical factors; (2) organisational factors; (3) educational factors; (4) friends; (5) teacher-student relationship; and (6) parent-student relationship. Respondents included 194 P5 TNS students. Quantitative data were gathered and analysed. The data suggested that the happiness of the 194 P5 students was associated with the six factors investigated. Schools, teachers and parents can benefit from knowing how these factors affect students’ happiness.


CYCLISTS’ COMPLIANCE AND NON-COMPLIANCE OF RULES AND REGULATIONS

TAN YI HUI Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Valerie Tan

The research aimed to find out if cyclists observe safety regulations at traffic junctions in Tampines St 45 and the reasons for their actions. It was conducted because of the cycling accidents at Tampines St 45. Through the study, we hope to benefit the community by increasing cyclists’ awareness of road safety regulations. We hope this can help to reduce road accidents and promote a safe cycling culture. An observational field study was conducted to observe the cyclists at Tampines St 45 to determine how many cyclists followed traffic rules and regulations. Information was also gathered through interviews with the cyclists. The study found that most cyclists only followed rules that benefitted their own safety.

88 Poster

WHAT ARE THE BEST ORGANIC METHODS TO REPEL ANTS AND WHETHER THEIR SMELL AFFECTS THEIR EFFECTIVENESS IN REPELLING ANTS?

TEH ZU MING Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Valerie Tan

The study aimed to find out the best organic methods to repel ants and whether their smell affected their effectiveness. Ants are commonly seen in homes, especially in areas where there is food. Non-organic insecticides are often used to repel ants but they leave a bad smell and are harmful to humans. Some organic methods are equally effective and do not harm one’s health, thus making them a better alternative. An experiment was conducted on eight organic methods that have claimed to work. They were categorised into strong-smelling and mild-smelling substances. The results showed that baby powder, garlic, white vinegar, cloves and cinnamon were effective while cucumber peels, mint and fresh bay leaves were not. The results suggested that the strong-smelling methods were more effective than mild-smelling ones.

NO. ABSTRACT 89 SOCIAL HARMONY AMONG P5 STUDENTS IN TNS Poster TIU JOSHUA

Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Fiona Soh

The aim of this project was to find out whether P5 students in Tao Nan School understood and valued the importance of social harmony; as well as whether they demonstrated the valuing of social harmony when interacting with their fellow schoolmates and friends. Through conducting a survey on 80 P5 students from GEP and non-GEP classes and interviewing two teachers, the result showed that the respondents generally understood and valued social harmony when interacting with others. Some ideas gathered through this research project that could further promote social harmony include organising more field trips, camps, and cluster-based and/or national activities.

90 Oral

IS THERE A POSITIVE LINK BETWEEN THE PRICE OF SOLAR FILM AND ITS EFFECTIVENESS?

JAMES E CHEUNG EN RUI Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Gurung Lee Chin Min

The aim of the research was to determine whether there is a positive link between the price of solar film and its effectiveness in reducing both the Ultraviolet (UV) and Infra-red (IR) radiation. Solar films are used to help lower temperature, which is a measure of IR and protect us from harmful UV rays. Whilst some well-known brands are commanding higher prices, others may provide equally good protection at lower prices and are deemed as value for money. Through this experiment, the UV index and temperature of four brands of solar films with different prices were recorded. Results showed that there was an association between the price of the solar films and their effectiveness. It is hoped that the research can help consumers make informed choices when choosing solar films for their homes and cars.


AN ANALYSIS OF THE PRESENCE OF PESTICIDES AND ITS COST-COMPETITIVENESS BETWEEN ORGANIC AND NON-ORGANIC FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

WOO HSIN YI ALYSSA Tao Nan School Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Fiona Soh

The aim of this study was to compare the amount of pesticide in non-organic fruits and vegetables with the more expensive organic fruits and vegetables. Increasingly, the issue of harmful pesticide residue has led people to buy expensive organic fruits and vegetables. However, recent reports indicated that there might not be any significant difference in detectable pesticide residue between either groups of food despite their difference in cost. A double-blind study was conducted to test for the presence of pesticides in five different types of organic and non-organic fruits and vegetables using a commercially-available pesticide residue test kit. The results indicated that neither organic nor non-organic samples showed any pesticide presence despite a two- to four-fold difference in price.

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NO. ABSTRACT 92 VIABILITY OF STARCRAFT 2 AS AN eSPORT IN SINGAPORE Poster CHIN CHAR JUIN

Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) Teacher-supervisor: Ms Suseela Suppiah

The main aim of this project was to find out whether Starcraft 2 could be an economically viable electronic sport (eSport) in Singapore. Research was conducted on the cost of tournaments hosted in Singapore similar in size to the Intel Extreme Masters (2012 and 2013). Data were then gathered from a survey of 80 people from 13 to 30 years of age to carry out a preliminary assessment of the economic viability of Starcraft 2. The data showed that only 8% out of 80 respondents expressed interest in having Starcraft 2 as an eSport and among those who expressed interest, more were teenagers. This would suggest that Starcraft 2 might not be an economically viable eSport.

93 EFFECT OF INORGANIC COMPOUNDS ON SURFACE TENSION OF A LIQUID Poster RAMKUMAR MADUR MALLIAH, SIDDHARTH SIVAKUMAR, ADITYA ANAND

Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) Teacher-supervisor: Mr James Lim Choy Kee

The aim of the project was to identify the relationship between the concentration of inorganic salts solution and the surface tension of the solution. There are limited studies to show how surface tension of seawater varies as the amount of inorganic salts changes. Sodium chloride, magnesium chloride and calcium chloride were examined in the current study as they are the main components in seawater. The experiment compared the effect of adding more than one type of inorganic salt into water and how this affected the surface tension. Paper clips were used as a tool to measure the strength of the surface tension. The findings from the experiment showed that when more inorganic salts dissolved in the solution, the surface tension of solution actually decreased in magnitude.


THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NON-TOXIC AND WATER RESISTANT HOMEMADE GLUE

GOH KAI-EN RUSSELL, CHONG KE MING CLEMENT, HENRIK KOH Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) Teacher-supervisor: Mdm Colleen Ng Shing Ling

The study aimed to develop homemade glue that was non-toxic, water resistant, fast drying and had the strength comparable to that of commercially available glue. After determining which materials (gelatin, soymilk, water, calcium chloride, and paraffin oil) could give the glue its intended properties, we conducted a series of experiments to test the glue for strength, water resistance and drying time. The result of the experiments showed that glue was almost two times stronger and dried four times faster than Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) glue. It was also water resistant. While it could not surpass superglue in terms of strength or drying time, it still had several benefits over superglue – it was more flexible and it was made using non-toxic materials.

95 THE HISTORY OF VISUAL ART EDUCATION IN SINGAPORE SCHOOLS Oral JORDAN FOO BAO LUO, LEE SHI HAO, JOSHUA LIM WEN JIE, DARRELL LIM

ENRUI Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) Teacher-supervisors: Mr Jarett Kan Wern Hau, Mr Peh Sek Kai

Visual art is important as it contributes to the intellectual, aesthetic, emotional and social development of an individual. This research project examined the development of visual art education in Singapore schools since independence in 1965. Through interviews with art teachers, study of the visual art examination syllabus, and analysis of the historical circumstances in Singapore, this research project concluded that for the sake of economic progress, visual art was given a lower priority in the education scene in the first 20 years of Singapore’s independence. Eventually, with the achievement of economic prosperity and stability, the Singapore government took greater steps to support visual art programs in schools.

NO. ABSTRACT 96 PROBIOTIC CULTIVATION IN NON-LACTOSE BEVERAGE Poster CLARISSE HING WEI YEN, NG SE KIT ETHAN, GUO YUXIN

Dunman High School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Heng Li Tze

Probiotics have been shown to aid digestion and benefit the body in many ways including stimulating the immune system. This has led to a rise in the number of products containing probiotics, like cultured milk. However, lactose-intolerant individuals will not be able to benefit from cultured milk. Therefore, this project aimed to develop a probiotic drink made from citrus fruit juices to cater to all people. However, citrus fruits’ low pH can cause low viability of probiotics. In the first phase of the experiment, probiotics were added to grapefruit juice and exposed to various temperatures. The optimum conditions for growth were found to be 37

oC for 72 hours. The

second phase of the experiment would investigate the effect of various types of extracts on probiotic growth.

97 VICTORY COMES EVER-WITH KINDNESS Poster KARYNN LIEW YUN ZHEN, CHUA YU XIN, NGO YING XUAN, ANG WEI JING,

CHUA YI, SOO SZE JIE Dunman High School Teacher-supervisors: Ms Christine Tan Chor Kheng, Mrs Koh Swee Ling

This project aimed to raise public awareness on good neighbourliness. Conflicts arise easily among neighbours due to differences and misunderstandings. This is especially true in Singapore, a multi-racial society. As a small nation, most Singaporeans live in close proximity to each other, but many do not know each other well. Our project, VCEK, wanted to investigate if organising fun and interactive activities, like carnivals, would encourage residents to be friendlier and to be more sociable neighbours. Through conducting a survey and an observation of the volunteers who participated in our carnival, it seemed that carnivals might be a possible way to get residents to know each other better whilst learning about acts of good neighbourliness.

NO. ABSTRACT 98 REMOVAL OF NICKEL (II) FROM ACID MINE DRAINAGE (AMD) Oral LEE JIA PEI, LEOW KAMIN TIFFANY, PONG RUICI RACHEL, YEO CLARISSA

Dunman High School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Lim Leong Hwee

Coconut coir pith is used as an adsorbent due to structures within it that possess acidic functional groups. Previous research had proven the adsorption ability of coir pith on Ni

2+ ions. This project attempted to

address the removal of Ni2+

ions from simulated acidic wastewater, which is typically found in nickel mine tailings. It was found that the optimum conditions for nickel removal by coir pith in a batch system of pH 2-7.5, adsorbent dosage of 1.5g/L of coconut pith, and a temperature of 30°C was at a pH of 7.5, in which the maximum nickel adsorption capacity by coir pith was found to be 35.5 mg/g.

99 Oral

THE COST OF BEAUTY: A STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF POPULAR MEDIA ON SINGAPOREAN TEENAGERS’ PERCEPTIONS OF THE IDEAL BODY IMAGE

LEONG WEI YEE, ALECIA Dunman High School Teacher-supervisor: Mr Lee Seng Lee

This study investigated the influence of popular culture on teenaged girls’ perception of body image. The study was fuelled by the relatively few studies focusing on teenaged girls in Asia and an increasing number of young victims of anorexia nervosa. It sought to obtain a better understanding on how popular media might shape Singaporean female teenagers’ (aged 13-16) perception of an ideal body image. Data were gathered through focus group discussions which examined the effects of body images in popular media on some Singaporean teenage girls (13-16 year olds). It was found that while all the participants of the FGDs were active consumers of popular media, those in the 15-16 age group were more conscious of their body image.


ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF HERMETIA ILLUCENS MAGGOTS’ FLATULENCE AND BODY EXTRACT

IAN SONG ZHENHAO, LOUIS CHEW YUE PIN Hwa Chong Institution Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Koh-Oon Hsiu Leng

The larvae of black soldier fly (Hermetia Illucens) are effective in managing manure waste, resulting in a reduction in mass and concentration of nutrients. Female black soldier flies deposit their eggs near the edges of decaying organic matter which contain viruses and bacteria. However, the larvae grow without being affected by these pathogens. Our objective was to test the antibacterial properties of the body extract and the flatulence of Hermetia Illucens larvae. Well diffusion test and a flatulence test were used to investigate the antibacterial properties of the body extract and the flatulence of the larvae. The results showed a visible decrease in the number of colonies formed by the bacteria suggesting that the larvae extract exhibited antibacterial properties.

101 PALE BLUE WATERS – AN ALTERNATE HISTORY OF MARINE RESEARCH Poster SONG MINGWEI, CHANG TSE HWEE JOEY, MATTHEW LIM KAI-YI, NG ZHIA

YANG Hwa Chong Institution Teacher-supervisor: Ms Liew Pei Li

The oceans are rich in scientific knowledge. They intimately affect the environment. Their immense biodiversity promises biomedical breakthroughs and holds answers to the origin of life on Earth. In this time of climate change and shrinking global resources, marine research is incredibly important. Our project Deep Blue Waters aimed to showcase the importance of marine research, and we used the medium of alternate history to rediscover its potential. In creating our project, history had to be broken down and remade with a massive scope of research from news articles and political speeches to music, films and fictional books in order to realistically simulate cultural and political events. The end product of our project comprised creative rewrites of some key pieces from popular culture and non-fiction.

NO. ABSTRACT 102 AN EXPLORATION OF DIGITAL POETICS Oral CHIANG KAH LOK RONALD, MICHAEL LIU RUIJIE, NG WEI KAI, TAN ZHONG

CHEN Hwa Chong Institution Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Jenny Wong

Digital poetry is an exciting, unprecedented and engaging literary medium that fuses text with technology. Graphics that bring out the visual essence of poetry, hypermedia elements that allow for organic narratives, and the manipulation of literary content via computer algorithms all fall under this fresh genre of literary art, challenging traditional conceptions of what we deem to be poetry. These multi-sensory expressions of thought also heighten cognitive appreciation, and appeal to readers in a more visceral manner. The need for environmental conservation and preservation is the key theme of this project, with the aim that digital poetry be used to more effectively put across the message that something substantial needs to be done to save the environment.

103 W!LD RICE-PERSONAE AND FACADES IN THE SINGAPORE THEATRE SCENE Oral TAN JIN HSI GABRIEL, ONG JUIN KHAI

Hwa Chong Institution Teacher-supervisor: Ms Liew Pei Li

Identity is not monolithic. The concepts of the Persona and the Self, most reputably purported by Carl Jung, reflect the contradictory nature of various aspects of our identity, and convey the sense that we never are who we appear to be. These concepts have inevitably found their way to the theatre, where we observe many playwrights manipulating the theme of personae and façades to foreground the conflict between the Persona and the Self. These concepts were closely examined through two local productions by W!LD RICE – La Cage aux Folles and The Importance of Being Earnest, and contributed to a better literary appreciation of these plays and the artistic motivations behind them.

NO. ABSTRACT 104 WATGLU Poster CHUA ANN SYNN HANNAH, DORCAS ANG, FAITH ANG, GWYNETH NG

WENG YI Nanyang Girls’ High School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Cheng Pei Boon Stephanie

Paper bags are often used in our daily lives. However, they are not waterproof. The aim of the project was to make a glue to coat on paper bags so that they would not break in the rain. After experimenting with different recipes, ‘Watglu’ was created. The outcomes of these recipes were then tested, where ‘Watglu’ was spread on pieces of paper, then left to float in a sink of water. The paper took twice as long to break than a normal piece of paper without the glue. Not only was ‘Watglu’ sticky and waterproof, it was also biodegradable, which made it environmentally friendly.

105 WRAP IT UP! Oral ZHU XINLE, WONG CHLOE, ALICIA SEAH XIN YING, ZHANG LUDI

Nanyang Girls’ High School Teacher-supervisor: Ms Tan Wei Lin

In this study, orange peel was used as a source of fibre to produce wrapping paper to reduce food waste. The aim was to make wrapping paper that could be re-used rather than be discarded after a single use. As such, the wrapping paper should be malleable and should also be waterproof – characteristics which will make wrapping paper good for re-use. The fibre of the orange peel was blended before sodium hydroxide was added to aid the fibers in mixing with one another. The prototype was then folded and water was dripped on it. The final paper produced was malleable and did not tear easily when folded. However, it softened when water was dripped on it, making it not effectively waterproof. More experiments would need to be conducted to make the paper more water resistant.

NO. ABSTRACT 106 FRUIT SEEDS AS WATER PURIFIERS Poster PANCHAMI CHANDUKUDLU, SUI YUAN, VERNICIA NEO SHU QI

NUS High School of Mathematics and Science Teacher-supervisor: Mr Lee Kim Hun

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of water purification using the extracts of papaya (Carica Papaya) seeds, rock melon (Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis) seeds and soybeans (Glycine max) as alternatives to moringa (Moringa oleifera) seeds. The extracts were tested on raw water from an open canal. Our results indicated that papaya seeds and soybeans were more effective than moringa seeds at reducing pH and turbidity of canal water, and gave rise to the highest decrease in the turbidity. The turbidity of the purified water was within the drinking water standard specified by the World Health Organisation (WHO). All extracts also reduced the pH of the canal water, with the final pH within, or close to the standards set by WHO. Our results indicated that extract from papaya seeds was the most effective in decreasing turbidity followed by extracts from soybean, moringa seeds and rock melon seeds.

107 GENDER PATTERNS IN PREFERENCE FOR INDIVIDUAL VS GROUP WORK Poster TOH YA WEI, HO PIN HUI, ETHAN HO

NUS High School of Mathematics and Science Teacher-supervisor: Ms Ng Oon Hui

Analyses of research on gender find clear differences in certain aspects of male and female behaviors, such as the notion that women are more cooperative, and hence will be more willing to work in groups. This study sought to find out if such behavioral patterns would be observed amongst the NUS High School Year Two (Grade 8) student population by carrying out various online surveys and focus group discussions. The data suggested that females were significantly more likely than males to work in groups even in scenarios where there were no efficiency advantages over individual production. On the other hand, the data suggested that most of the time, males demonstrated more confidence in their ability and distrust in their friends’ aptitude (perceptions of relative competence), except when individual compensation was introduced (i.e., when individuals within a group were given different scores based on credit).

NO. ABSTRACT 108 PAINT-ON POWER Oral ANG JING ZHI JOY, SONIA E K ARUMUGANAINAR, PANG WAN RION

MARION NUS High School of Mathematics and Science Teacher-supervisor: Mr Poh Boon Hor

Compared to batteries, ultracapacitors offer higher power outputs and reduced capacity fading. However, conventional electric double layer capacitors (EDLC) designs tend to be rigid and inflexible. This project aimed to explore a novel method to fabricate ultracapacitors by painting the various electrode and electrolyte layers on paper, cardboard, Tyvek, cotton cloth, copper and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) using graphene paint. Based on readings of current and potential difference obtained, ultracapacitors fabricated on various substrates were found to be feasible and resilient to mechanical damage regardless of curvature. This proves the paint-on application method is a feasible and versatile method.

109 RHIZOREMEDIATION OF ANTHRACENE IN HARDY TROPICAL PLANTS Oral MADHUMITA AYYAPPAN, MARVIN DRAGON CHOO, LIM TING WEI

NUS High School of Mathematics and Science Teacher-supervisor: Ms Ng Oon Hui

This study investigated the ability of the African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha) and Money plants (Epipremnum aureum) to rhizoremediate anthracene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH). PAHs are widespread soil pollutants with excellent chemical stability, making them difficult to bioremediate. One promising solution is using the rhizosphere microbes of plants to degrade PAHs. There is thus strong motivation to investigate the ability of common hardy plants to carry out this rhizoremediation function. Our study, which is still on going, tracks the changes in anthracene levels in pots with different plants, and we use high-performance liquid chromatography to determine the abundance of anthracene in specific soil depths. The rhizoremediation abilities of different plants will be better understood.

NO. ABSTRACT 110 ANTI-OXIDANTS MAY DELAY RUSTING Poster ANDREA LOW HUI LING, NADIA QUEK WEI SI, NICOLE LIM YAN TONG

Raffles Girls’ School (Secondary) Teacher-supervisor: Dr Lim Ai Khim

Rusting is undesirable as it weakens metal structures. An existing solution is to make use of zinc coating, a form of galvanisation, but zinc is a limited resource. This project aimed to identify an alternative method to delay rusting in iron. Rusting is an oxidation process, where iron reacts with oxygen and water. The use of anti-oxidants can potentially delay rusting. Many anti-oxidants are found in essential oils. In this research, three essential oils of different anti-oxidative indices were tested for their capacity to delay rusting. Using a quantitative thiocyanate colourimetry assay, Clove as compared to Citronella and Eucalyptus Globulus was found to have the strongest anti-oxidant capacity, and therefore, slowed the rusting of iron the most.

111 DESIGNER BABIES Poster KHAIRUNNISA NABILAH BINTE ZAINAL ABIDIN, NUR SYAHIRAH BINTE

RUHAZAT, SAKINAH BINTE YUSOF Raffles Girls’ School (Secondary) Teacher-supervisor: Mr Lorenzo Antonio C Angel

This study aimed to find out if technology should be used to modify the genetic make-up of a child before it was born. A survey of 11 teachers and 122 students from RGS and a focus group discussion involving 15 adult members of the Singapore Philosophy Group were conducted to gain different perspectives on the topic. A final argument was then formed to present the stand taken after taking into account perspectives previously unconsidered. The evaluation was based on three types of enhancement – personal, social and species. Two ethical theories, consequentialism and deontology, were used to evaluate the morality of using designer baby technology for different types of enhancement. The same conditional conclusion was derived: technology should not be used to genetically enhance an unborn child except to prevent medical or birth-related limitations (i.e., deformities, diseases).


THE ANTIBACTERIAL EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT SPECIES OF GINGER IN THE ZINGIBERACEAE FAMILY ON THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

HAZEL LAU HUIYAN, VANESSA CHING JIAHUI, RIDDHI MANOJ MEHTA Raffles Girls’ School (Secondary) Teacher-supervisor: Mr Chan Sau Siong

This study compared the antibacterial property of different species of ginger in the Zingiberaceae family under varying pH conditions. This gave us some insights on how the different species of ginger, after subjecting them to different pH, would affect bacterial growth. This pH change was similar to the pH change in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the stomach and small intestine. Four species of ginger – Zingiber officinale, Kaempferia galanga, Curcuma longa and Alpinia galanga – were studied. All four species demonstrated antibacterial activity against E. coli. C. longa exhibited slightly stronger antibacterial activity against E. coli, followed by A. galangal, Z. officinale, and K. galangal respectively.

113 Oral

ACTUALLY CONTEXTUALLY: A STUDY ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CULTURALLY-ORIENTED SYMBOLS IN GRAPHIC DESIGN

TAN RHE-ANNE, OOI PEI YING KARYN, TAN ZI LING JOLENE Raffles Girls’ School (Secondary) Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Roslinda Chan

This project investigated the effectiveness of different categories of cultural symbols – differentiated based on the form of connection they make with individuals – used in school-based advertisements targeted at an audience of primary school students and their parents. By collating the audience’s responses to these cultural symbols, we measured each symbol’s efficacy and selected the most appropriate for usage in similar media for a different audience – the secondary students in RGS. Our study suggested that as compared to advertisements that made use of general symbols or product-based symbols, more effective advertisements typically made use of cultural symbols or symbols which audience could relate to due to their social-economic background.


BEHAVIORAL STUDY OF LONG-TAILED MACAQUES IN MACRITCHIE RESERVOIR, SINGAPORE

LI WAN JIE, LEOW ZHI YONG, SRI RAMASAMY MUTHURAMAN Raffles Institution Teacher-supervisor: Mrs Lim Shu Hui Geraldine

The study aimed to investigate the behaviours of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) and the public’s perception and behaviour towards them. The study was conducted at the MacRitchie Reservoir through observing a troop of 10 to 15 long-tailed macaques near the Mushroom Café, and through interviewing 50 visitors near the café. Based on the observation data, it was found that the macaques observed did not frequent places with a lot of people, possibly to avoid possible danger. Some visitors were observed feeding or teasing the macaques. The interview results suggested that respondents typically perceived that the long-tailed macaques were not naturally aggressive towards humans and that most respondents were unclear about how to respond when macaques attack and how to prevent macaque attacks. The findings suggested that there is a need for more effective public education on what visitors should do to avoid macaque attack and how they may respond when attacked.

115 Oral

A STUDY OF BUILT HERITAGE IN SINGAPORE AND THE NEED TO PRESERVE THEM: PERSPECTIVE OF RAFFLES INSTITUTION STUDENTS

GOH ZHI JIE, ETHAN LEE, EUGENE CHUA WEI HENG, IAN TAY RONGDE, KEE YUN SHAO Raffles Institution Teacher-supervisor: Mr Jai Singh

Singapore has been developing rapidly over the last few decades and urban redevelopment has often been carried out at the expense of Singapore’s built heritage. By built heritage, we refer to buildings and similar structures of historical significance to Singaporeans, for example, the National Library. In the process of modernisation and development, many of Singapore’s built heritage have been demolished to make way for urban renewal. If this continues, future generations of Singaporeans who did not witness these structures may not be able to relate to or realise their significance in the historical development of Singapore. How will present Singaporeans react to this phenomenon? In this study, we surveyed 20 Raffles Institution (RI) students and interviewed a history teacher to find

NO. ABSTRACT out their views about the significance of built heritage and how Singapore’s built heritage should be preserved for future generations. Data from our survey revealed that a significant number of the respondents were unaware of our built heritage and did not fully realise the need for preserving them. The interview with the History teacher suggested that education about Singapore’s built heritage is necessary and should start early, preferably in primary school. However, it should not be made into an examinable subject. A more extensive study involving a survey of more students from RI and elsewhere will need to be conducted and if the findings concur with the findings from the current study, we proposed that strategic education which encourages students to become active and informed participants in the preservation of Singapore’s built heritage be introduced as early as possible.

116 Oral

EFFECTS OF PLANT-BASED EXTRACT ON THE GROWTH OF MICROCOCCUS LUTEUS

YEO XU ZHAN DYLAN, YANG CHENG YUAN MORRIS, TANG ZER HAN MALCOLM Raffles Institution Teacher-supervisors: Mrs Lim Shu Hui Geraldine

The aims of the project were to assess the effectiveness of various plant matter extracts in inhibiting the growth of Micrococcus luteus. Extracts of tomato, carrot, kiwi fruit, broccoli and barley were prepared. Broth cultures of Micrococcus luteus were spread on MH agar plates. The key compounds of the different plant matter were placed on respective autoclaved filter discs on the bacterial plates and incubated for twenty-four hours. Barley showed the largest average inhibition zone, followed by kiwi, tomato, carrot, and broccoli respectively. Findings in this project are a stepping stone for future projects in determining future commercial and medical usage of the antimicrobial compounds found in these plant matter extracts against Micrococcus luteus.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Gifted Education Branch, Ministry of Education would like to express its thanks and appreciation to the following for their help and support:

Anglo-Chinese School (Primary)

Catholic High School (Primary)

Henry Park Primary School

Nan Hua Primary School

Nanyang Primary School

Raffles Girls’ Primary School

Rosyth School

Saint Hilda’s Primary School

Tao Nan School

Anglo-Chinese School (Independent)

Dunman High School

Hwa Chong Institution (High School)

Nanyang Girls’ High School

National University of Singapore High School of Mathematics and Science

Raffles Girls’ School (Secondary)

Raffles Institution (Secondary)

Organised by:

Gifted Education Branch, Ministry of Education

IRS Committee 2014: Ms Chong Lai Kuen

Ms Phuan Siew Khoon Ms Soh Xiao Fen

Mdm Tan Hui Zhen Mr Khong Weng Keong

Mr Kenneth Liu

6 november 2014 republic polytechnic - ministry of education...rgps how do p5 gep girls in rgps feel...

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