Oasis Academy — Bighorn Bulletin

Raisins Reveal the Science of Physics and Chemistry

By Neel Bhakta

Second- and third-grade students recently used something as simple as raisins to explore interesting scientific principles in physics and chemistry. Through a fun experiment, students were able to observe concepts such as density, buoyancy, and gas behavior in an interactive way.

During the activity, students placed raisins in a liquid and carefully watched what happened to them. The raisins moved up and down, allowing students to see how changes in density and buoyancy can affect an object's movement. The experiment also demonstrated how gases can interact with the raisins and cause them to behave differently.

Instead of only learning about these concepts from a textbook, students were able to see the scientific concepts they were studying happening in front of them. The activity gave students an opportunity to make observations, ask questions, and connect what they were learning in class to a real experiment.

Although raisins may seem like an ordinary snack, this experiment showed students that science can be found in unexpected places. By using a simple activity, students gained a better understanding of physics and chemistry while having fun learning.

Math is Everywhere at Third Annual Math Night Expo

Oasis Academy recently hosted its third annual Math Night Expo, giving K-6 students and their families an evening filled with interactive learning, games, strategies, and plenty of opportunities to discover that math can be both useful and fun.

As families arrived, they received a lanyard with information about the evening and the different activities available throughout Gordmans. In true expo style, families were invited to choose their own adventure, with students able to attend engaging math presentations or visit a variety of booths featuring hands-on math games, activities, and strategies that can also be used at home.

The evening was designed to make math approachable and enjoyable while giving families practical ways to support their students' learning outside of the classroom. Students were encouraged to participate, explore different activities, and try new strategies as they moved throughout the expo.

“It was incredible seeing so many families exploring, learning, and enjoying math together. It was the highlight of the evening for me,” Kim Sorensen said.  “I’m grateful to the families who supported the event and to our administrators and extra staff members who helped out.  A huge thank-you goes to our amazing teachers, whose creativity, hard work, and dedication made the entire evening such a success.”

Families also had the opportunity to take home free math tools to continue the learning at home. A special thank-you goes to the J Resort in Reno for donating decks of cards, which provided families with another simple and fun resource for practicing math skills together.

The success of Math Night Expo would not have been possible without the tremendous time, creativity, and effort put forth by Oasis Academy's math teachers and Math Specialist Kim Sorensen. Their dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences for students and families was evident throughout the evening.

First-Year FFA Students Attend Greenhand Conference

Oasis Academy’s first-year high school students in the National FFA Organization (FFA) recently attended the Greenhand Conference at Venturacci Gym in Fallon. The conference brought together beginning FFA members from across the area for a day focused on learning, leadership, and discovering more about what it means to be part of the FFA organization.

Throughout the conference, students participated in activities designed to introduce them to the opportunities available through FFA. They learned more about FFA traditions, leadership, teamwork, and the many ways students can become involved and grow through their experiences in agricultural education.

For Oasis Academy’s first-year members, the Greenhand Conference was a great opportunity to meet other FFA students, build new friendships, and gain confidence as they begin their FFA journey. Events like this help students see that FFA is about more than agriculture; it is also about developing leadership skills, serving their communities, and preparing for their futures.

“Greenhand was a very educational experience and helped me grow my knowledge about FFA,” Angela Pratt said. “As I continue with FFA, I look forward to taking different classes, staying connected with fellow FFA members, and possibly attending state or nationals.”

Oasis Academy FFA currently has 89 members from middle school through high school and is led by adviser Jackie Bogdanowicz and co-adviser Sarah Perry.