5:15 PM - 7:15 PM
[G04-P03] Report on Instructional Practices of Earth Science for SSH program
Keywords:Instructional Practices, Earth Science, SSH Project Research
Ichikawa High School’s SSH Program and Earth Science Initiatives
In the 2024 academic year, Ichikawa High School was designated as a Super Science High School (SSH) by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) for the fourth phase, marking its 16th year in the program. SSH schools are expected to foster globally competitive scientific and technological talent through advanced science and mathematics education. As part of this program, over 200 second-year science-track students conduct independent research projects each year. Additionally, regular science classes emphasize hands-on experiments to enhance scientific education. This report focuses on the Earth science initiatives within Ichikawa High School’s SSH program.
Research Project Process
Independent research projects begin in December of the first year. Students who choose the science track propose research topics based on their interests. However, many initial topics, such as “Observing Black Holes” (requiring expensive equipment) or “Liquefaction” (lacking novelty), are challenging. To refine their ideas, students undergo multiple interviews with teachers.
In June of the second year, students present their research proposals, reviewing previous studies and clarifying their objectives. They receive guidance on literature review methods, academic paper reading, and poster creation. During summer, they conduct experiments or fieldwork, followed by a mid-year presentation in November. The final presentation and research paper submission take place in March.
The program’s goal is to provide students with hands-on research experience while emphasizing "novelty," distinguishing research from simple fact-finding projects often conducted in middle and high schools. Highly motivated students may present at external conferences, such as the Japan Geoscience Union (JpGU) meetings, where they refine their communication skills and receive valuable feedback influencing their academic interests and career choices.
Research Topics and Achievements
Key research topics include:
“Analysis of Hailfall Using Twitter Data” (Encouragement Award at JpGU 2023) “Formation Processes of Acidic Hot Springs in Beppu” (Best Award at JpGU 2023) “Assessment of Snow Water Resources in Mountainous Areas” “Formation Mechanism of Asymmetric Valleys in the Shimōsa Plateau” “Fog Distribution Along Narita Airport’s Runways”
Many topics are outside the instructor's expertise. However, by reviewing prior studies together and advising on methodology, teachers help students develop as independent researchers.
Additional Initiatives
Beyond research projects, the SSH program includes fieldwork at locations such as Miyakejima (Izu Islands) and Jōgashima (Miura Peninsula) to nurture Earth science enthusiasts. Every July, Ichikawa High School hosts the High School Earth Science Research Presentation Conference, providing a platform for students researching underrepresented Earth science topics to receive feedback from teachers and university researchers. Presentations at conceptual stages are also welcomed, making the event popular.
Additionally, in middle school science classes, first-year students participate in a local field excursion to explore the geological history of their surroundings. These activities aim to inspire more students to appreciate the excitement of Earth sciences.
In the 2024 academic year, Ichikawa High School was designated as a Super Science High School (SSH) by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) for the fourth phase, marking its 16th year in the program. SSH schools are expected to foster globally competitive scientific and technological talent through advanced science and mathematics education. As part of this program, over 200 second-year science-track students conduct independent research projects each year. Additionally, regular science classes emphasize hands-on experiments to enhance scientific education. This report focuses on the Earth science initiatives within Ichikawa High School’s SSH program.
Research Project Process
Independent research projects begin in December of the first year. Students who choose the science track propose research topics based on their interests. However, many initial topics, such as “Observing Black Holes” (requiring expensive equipment) or “Liquefaction” (lacking novelty), are challenging. To refine their ideas, students undergo multiple interviews with teachers.
In June of the second year, students present their research proposals, reviewing previous studies and clarifying their objectives. They receive guidance on literature review methods, academic paper reading, and poster creation. During summer, they conduct experiments or fieldwork, followed by a mid-year presentation in November. The final presentation and research paper submission take place in March.
The program’s goal is to provide students with hands-on research experience while emphasizing "novelty," distinguishing research from simple fact-finding projects often conducted in middle and high schools. Highly motivated students may present at external conferences, such as the Japan Geoscience Union (JpGU) meetings, where they refine their communication skills and receive valuable feedback influencing their academic interests and career choices.
Research Topics and Achievements
Key research topics include:
“Analysis of Hailfall Using Twitter Data” (Encouragement Award at JpGU 2023) “Formation Processes of Acidic Hot Springs in Beppu” (Best Award at JpGU 2023) “Assessment of Snow Water Resources in Mountainous Areas” “Formation Mechanism of Asymmetric Valleys in the Shimōsa Plateau” “Fog Distribution Along Narita Airport’s Runways”
Many topics are outside the instructor's expertise. However, by reviewing prior studies together and advising on methodology, teachers help students develop as independent researchers.
Additional Initiatives
Beyond research projects, the SSH program includes fieldwork at locations such as Miyakejima (Izu Islands) and Jōgashima (Miura Peninsula) to nurture Earth science enthusiasts. Every July, Ichikawa High School hosts the High School Earth Science Research Presentation Conference, providing a platform for students researching underrepresented Earth science topics to receive feedback from teachers and university researchers. Presentations at conceptual stages are also welcomed, making the event popular.
Additionally, in middle school science classes, first-year students participate in a local field excursion to explore the geological history of their surroundings. These activities aim to inspire more students to appreciate the excitement of Earth sciences.