Second-grade students took part in a stimulating STEM field trip to Brookhaven National Laboratory.

The interactive exhibits and hands-on opportunities in BNL’s Science Learning Center helped the students connect to cutting-edge science, technology, engineering and mathematics topics, an extension of their classroom learning.

Focused on the physical sciences, the inquiry-based learning environment included exhibits on sound waves, engineering concepts and an air cannon where students learned that air has mass and takes up space, among other opportunities for them to investigate and explore.

“The students were excited by the opportunity to understand some of the STEM concepts they are learning in the classroom,” said teacher Alice Steinbrecher. “They were able to use their inquiry and investigative skills to comprehend the hands-on exhibits.”