Presentation Day at Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy - A Showcase of Talented Youth from Throughout the State

For Immediate Release, April 2004
For comment, contact Brenda Buschbacher at (630) 907-5033

PRESENTATION DAY AT ILLINOIS MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE ACADEMY - A SHOWCASE OF TALENTED YOUTH FROM THROUGHOUT THE STATE

Two and Three Dimensional Left Ventricular Remodeling Following
Mitral Valve Replacement and Repair
The Mathematics of Magic: The Gathering – What Can Probability Tell Us?
Impact of Aroma on Perception of Age
Women of the Night: The Untold Story of Women Astronomers

For a complete listing of presentations visit:
http://www2.imsa.edu/learning/inquiry/

While these may sound like articles from scientific journals written by experts at the top of their fields, they are actually a sampling of the research findings that will be presented by more than 200 talented students from throughout the state at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy’s 16th annual Presentation Day on Wednesday, April 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

“The work that our students are conducting both independently and with mentors from the scientific community is internationally recognized and raises academic standards to a new level,” says Dr. Stephanie Pace Marshall, president of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA). Presentation Day is a vivid reflection of their experience here. You really must see it to believe it.”

On presentation day, IMSA students will present their findings from research they have conducted through IMSA’s Student Inquiry and Research (SIR) Program. The SIR program challenges students to engage in self-directed scholarly and scientific investigation and artistic expression. A mentorship component pairs students with scientists and master scholars in museums, corporations, educational institutions and research laboratories. Students making presentations have written science fiction novels, developed original mathematic proofs, composed original musical scores, carbon-dated archaeological discoveries and tutored children living in Chicago’s Cabrini Green Public Housing Development. Many have delivered their presentations to national and international science and math conferences.

“IMSA students come from throughout Illinois to take advantage of what is a truly unique academic environment,” Dr. Marshall says. “At IMSA we are turning secondary education on its head.”

Located in Aurora, Illinois, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is an internationally-recognized pioneering educational institution created by the State to develop talent and stimulate excellence in teaching and learning in mathematics, science and technology. IMSA's advanced residential college preparatory program enrolls 650 academically talented Illinois students in grades 10-12. More than 17,000 teachers and 26,000 students in Illinois and beyond have benefited from services of The Center@IMSA the Academy unit that provides statewide professional development and enrichment programs. IMSA serves the people of Illinois through innovative instructional programs, public and private partnerships, policy leadership and action research.