Pretty clever! Fifth-grade students advance to the second round of the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO)

The International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) is a science competition that promotes the development of young talent in the natural sciences across disciplines, starting in 5th grade. The topics and questions are based on the everyday lives of children and teenagers. This school year’s theme was “Listen Up!”

Nine students worked hard on experiments as part of the 5th-grade GuFi Lab under the guidance of Jutta Töhl-Borsdorf. They investigated popping popcorn and learned the difference between sound, noise, and a bang. They used the physics app Phyphox to investigate swinging wine glasses with different water levels. There was also plenty of time for building and crafting: they constructed a model of a human ear using a cake pan and a sound box made from a potato chip can. Finally, everything had to be documented in a report.

Anna-Lena Griesler, Marlene Wagner, Justus Pöschl, and Robin Richter persevered, tackled these extensive and challenging tasks, and completed the first round.
Out of approximately 3,800 participants from all over Germany, Justus and Robin performed so well that they ranked 213th, thereby qualifying for the second round.
This round consisted of a challenging quiz with 24 multiple-choice questions covering the three natural sciences—biology, chemistry, and physics—which had to be completed within 45 minutes. The quiz is still being graded and will continue until the end of March.

If they qualify, the two will have to take a written exam in the third round in May. Since the fifth-graders will be competing against eighth-graders, their motto can only be, “Just participating is what counts.”

We congratulate everyone involved and are rooting for the two boys in the next round.

25. March 2022

Another Success: Four Awards for the Steinmühle at the “Jugend forscht” Regional Competition

Contests & Awards, News, STEM, Talent Development

On Bioplastic Films, Microplastics, and Rusting Processes

The 57th “Jugend forscht” Regional Competition for Central Hesse took place on Friday and Saturday, February 25 and 26, 2022. As was the case last year, the competition—which, unfortunately, was held exclusively online—was jointly organized by the Technical University of Central Hesse (THM) and Justus Liebig University Giessen. Under the theme “Randomly Brilliant?”, a total of 34 projects were presented, including two projects from Singapore and one from Buenos Aires.

This year, Steinmühle launched three projects as part of the “Schüler experimentieren” competition, in the fields of chemistry, physics, and biology. Steinmühle emerged successfully from this competition, taking first, second, and third place, as well as a special award for dedicated mentors. All prizes include certificates and cash awards.

Rusting keeps you warm, too!
Noah Wieder (8th grade) and Toshiro Beato del Rosal (7th grade) wondered just how quickly rusting actually occurs after they noticed two rusty shopping carts at the boathouse that had been “fished out” of the Lahn River. Since rusting releases small amounts of heat, they developed model experiments under the supervision of Dr. Jutta Töhl-Borsdorf and measured temperature changes over time under various conditions. They found that the process occurs faster when the salt content is high and the pH is low. Since the temperature changes are very small overall, these measurements were not easy to perform experimentally.
The jury praised the ambitious project idea and the students’ advanced subject knowledge, as well as their excellent presentation skills, and awarded them third place in the chemistry category.

What effect do microplastics have on plant growth?
Lina Wicherek and Sabine Auer, both seventh-graders, have been studying the issue of microplastics in the soil. In their research, which focused on a specific type of microplastic (PA), they were able to show that, depending on the amount of microplastic introduced, PA negatively affects or even completely inhibits the germination of cress. They also demonstrated that the extent of the inhibition depends on the substrate. They succeeded in defining the maximum tolerated amount of PA for the substrates “sand” and “cellulose.”
The jury was impressed by the highly topical subject matter, the precise research question, and the reproducible experimental design. The project was awarded second place in the biology category. The project was jointly supervised by Antje Seel and Dr. Jutta Töhl-Borsdorf.

Biofilms vs. Plastic Films—Manufacturing and Measurement of Physical Properties
Leonard Berger and Quentin Herwig received a lengthy commendation. Under the supervision of Dr. Jutta Töhl-Borsdorf, they produced biofilms from various food-grade thickeners and developed a physical measurement apparatus to test their suitability for everyday use. The films should be as tear-resistant, transparent, and impermeable as possible.

They measured tear strength using digital sensors, transparency using a smartphone, and water vapor permeability using an analytical balance.
All of their measurement methods are now working very well, and during the production of the films, they also identified individual films with promising properties (e.g., made from tapioca, arrowroot, or konjac starch). Further research is needed to find an all-around film that performs well in all areas.

The judges were not only very impressed by the presentation, but also by the “in-depth understanding of the topic.” They also praised the comprehensive and clear description of the experiments, a very well-thought-out discussion, and the ideas for further developing the project. In addition, they recommended that the students enter their tests in the “Jugend testet” competition (Stiftung Warentest).
First, however, they’ll be heading to the state competition in Kassel, as the two won first place in the physics category and have thus qualified for the in-person competition. Due to the pandemic, however, the event must take place without parents and behind closed doors. At least the mentors are allowed to travel with them, and the interaction with the other young researchers—which has been missing for the past two years—will likely be able to take place.
Leonard has been participating since 5th grade—this is his fourth consecutive year in “Jugend Forscht”—and has always advanced to the state competition with his respective group. A great achievement!

Talent and Interest in the Best Hands

Last year, students Joshua Wieder, Morten Köhler, and Benjamin Schul also advanced to the state competition. The group decided to take a break this year, as the members were less enthusiastic about the online version of the competition.
Nevertheless, they didn’t sit idle and investigated how effectively various oxygen-based cleaners can remove different types of stains. This project was submitted to the ongoing “Jugend testet” competition.

Finally, Dr. Jutta Töhl-Borsdorf received another award—the Special Prize for Dedicated Talent Promoters, sponsored by the Heinz and Gisela Friedrichs Foundation. Once again, she served as the advisor and coordinator for the school’s participation in the “Jugend forscht” competition.

Steinmühle is proud of all the award winners!

25. March 2022

10th-graders Take Second Place in Germany’s Largest Computer Science Competition

Contests & Awards, News, STEM, Talent Development

Two students from the WU10 computer science class earned second-place finishes for Steinmühle in the “Informatik Biber” competition. Constantin Franz and Felix May each received a certificate and a small prize.

The Informatik-Biber is Germany’s largest computer science competition for students in grades 3 through 13. In the most recent edition, a record number of 429,000 students from 2,500 educational institutions across the country participated.

Above all, the program calls for skills in solving puzzles and brain teasers, with the tasks creatively teaching the thought processes and concepts of computer science. One example of this is algorithmic descriptions—that is, explaining or formulating clear, structured sequences of actions that a computer could understand.

Students who are not enrolled in the Computer Science track (8th, 9th, or 10th grade) but enjoy brain teasers are welcome to contact English and computer science teacher Christopher Koch and participate in the next round at the end of the year. There is also an opportunity to practice beforehand.

24. March 2022

Youth Tests — White, as white as it gets? 11th-graders test stain removers

News, STEM

Joshua Wieder, Morten Köhler, and Benjamin Schul have long been part of a research team at Steinmühle. This year, they’ve taken a break from the “Jugend forscht” competition, in which they’ve participated regularly since 6th grade.
But these three students simply can’t go without doing some research. On Fridays in the “Open Lab,” they investigated the effectiveness of oxygen-based detergents, which are also used in laundry as stain removers or bleaches. The packaging often advertises stain removal starting at just 20°C. The team wanted to take a closer look at bold advertising claims such as “With active oxygen for brilliant whites” or “Chlorine-free laundry booster.”
For these investigations, they purchased various oxygen-based detergents and examined several criteria that might be important to consumers.
Among other things, they used a test apparatus they developed themselves to measure oxygen release at specific temperatures and the amount of oxygen produced for various stain-removing salts, since oxygen is responsible for the bleaching process.
This was followed by a practical test at various wash temperatures using red wine and ink stains. They also checked whether the stains bled onto the fabric surrounding the stain during washing (stain transfer). All results were compiled into tables to identify a test winner and, taking the purchase price into account, a best-value winner.
The result was somewhat predictable: not all advertising claims can be fulfilled. Among other things, the team was able to show that red wine stains are generally more difficult to remove. Only a single product ultimately received a “very good” rating from them. Another product, which received a “good” rating, was named the best value for money.

The results were documented in a report and submitted to the “Jugend Testet” competition. Through the end of May, the entries will be evaluated by a jury composed of experts from Stiftung Warentest and other reviewers from the media and consumer protection sectors. The judges will evaluate how the tests were conducted, how thoroughly the work was carried out and documented, and whether the test results are transparent.
We’re keeping our fingers crossed for the team!

22. March 2022

Media Weekend at Steinmühle Boarding School

Digitalization & AI, Life at Boarding School, News

A weekend dedicated to media: from data protection to mobile games and digital photo editing to robot programming. The second themed weekend offered a wide variety of activities related to media content in a successful blend of information and fun.

The event kicked off on Saturday morning with a presentation by three representatives from the Chaos Computer Club (CCC). Afterward, the students at Steinmühle Boarding School had the opportunity to participate in three activities under the expert guidance of a CCC representative.

In this way, some students learned to program in a way that initially sounded very abstract: Through the interlacing points in the traditional weaving of a small rug, the students were taught the basic concept of programming as binary code. In another program, students took a close look at their data security online.

One of the highlights of the weekend was definitely building small robots that the students could program on their own.

The teaching staff also shared their experiences and insights on selected media topics with the students.

For example, students were able to try their hand at taking photos with digital cameras, or explore effective presentation techniques in a course offered by the Learning Center. This weekend made it clear that mobile games don’t always have to be played alone—they can also offer a welcome change of pace through social interaction in multiplayer mode—just as the experience of recording and editing their own rap track did.

In addition to all the fun the media weekend offered, it also provided a space to address serious topics. Students discussed sexuality and how we perceive ourselves and others on social media, as well as current and pressing issues surrounding radicalization and hate speech online.

We started together, and we finished together: At the closing dinner on Sunday evening, individual project groups presented their results and had the chance to look back on the weekend together over the classic Sunday meal of schnitzel and fries.

18. March 2022

History Up Close: Stadtallendorf’s Turbulent Development and People’s Life Stories

Collaborations & Partnerships, News, Politics, Business & Responsibility

From time to time, parents or relatives of our students are able to make valuable contributions to Steinmühlen’s curriculum—thanks to their professional experience or knowledge. The visit by Herbert Köller, the grandfather of Alexandra Köller (6b), was one such example. Together with Hans-Jürgen Wolff, he spoke to Steinmühlen students in grades 8, 10, and 13 about the work of the Stadtallendorf Documentation and Information Center (DIZ), founded in 1994, which is Germany’s first and oldest memorial dedicated to forced labor.

The DIZ (www.diz-stadtallendorf.de) has received photographs and records from the late phase of World War II from the estate of Hilmar Eisenhut. Hilmar Eisenhut was a 15-year-old student in Eschwege when his friends from the grade above him, who were serving as anti-aircraft gunners near Kassel, were killed by a crashing airplane. Shortly thereafter, Hilmar also became an anti-aircraft gunner and was stationed in Stadtallendorf.

From a Poor Village to the No. 1 Industrial City

In the first part of the double period, Hans-Jürgen Wolff used a PowerPoint presentation to explore why Stadtallendorf is now a thriving industrial city. He traced the town’s journey from a poor Catholic village, through its history as an ammunition depot and a refuge for displaced persons and guest workers, to its current status as the number one industrial town in the Marburg-Biedenkopf district. In doing so, he also explored the question of why Stadtallendorf was not bombed during World War II. This is where 16-year-old Hilmar Eisenhut, his accounts, and his photographs came into play.

A 16-Year-Old’s War Experiences

In the second part, the presentation took on a more personal tone and was told from the boy’s perspective. Herbert Köller read vividly, taking on various roles, and emotionally brought Hilmar’s notes to life—sometimes in the loud tone of the sergeant, sometimes with a tear-choked voice. In between, Hans-Jürgen Wolff repeatedly interrupted the reading to provide factual, matter-of-fact, and even technical information to help the audience contextualize what they had heard.

The title “History Up Close” can therefore be understood in two ways. On the one hand, it was about regional proximity—that is, the history of a town in our county. On the other hand, the accounts were emotionally moving, as the fate of the anti-aircraft gunner and his friends—who were the same age as the audience—struck a deep chord—not even ten days before another war of aggression began in Europe.

Our photo shows the speakers Herbert Köller (left) and Hans-Jürgen Wolff.

11. March 2022

A sport for those who prefer a more relaxed pace: Fencing builds coordination, dexterity, and strength

News, Sports & Health

To get this out of the way: Statistically speaking, fewer accidents occur in fencing than in winter sports or soccer. As is so often the case, it all comes down to good training, the right equipment, and people who are eager to learn something from the ground up. All these criteria are met when Steinmühlen teacher Steffen Ullwer meets with a group of boys and girls every Wednesday for fencing lessons. The after-school club has been running since the start of the 2020–21 school year—though, unfortunately, it has been interrupted several times due to pandemic-related restrictions.

In the locker room, they swap their face masks for fencing masks. They quickly learn that “helmet” is the wrong word. The fencing mask is made of steel mesh and protects against blows and strikes. They put on their white protective suits—and off they go. A maximum of 8 students can participate in each group to learn how to use the foil. Currently, participants in grades 5 and 6 are training.

The foil is a thrusting weapon. At first, it takes some effort to use it and aim where you’re supposed to. The only valid target area is your opponent’s torso. Not the head, not the arms, not the legs. “Go ahead, it won’t hurt me.” Steffen Ullwer encourages the student to use the foil. A correct stance is important, as is good posture. By stepping forward with the front leg and extending the back leg, you close in on your opponent. This “lunge” must be executed perfectly. Once you’ve had some practice, the goal is to identify your opponent’s weaknesses. This can be done with feints—a threatening move, such as extending your arm, that isn’t followed by a thrust. Instead, your opponent’s defensive reaction opens up a new opportunity to attack. This time, you take advantage of it.

Fencing has several physical benefits. The sport strengthens the muscles and the cardiovascular system and is beneficial for the nervous system and concentration. It is said that those who fence develop physical strength, speed, agility, quick reflexes, as well as alertness and decisiveness.

Steffen Ullwer, the coach, is an experienced fencer. A math and physics teacher at Steinmühle, he has been involved in the sport since the age of 7, thanks to his father. He also coaches adults in the fencing division of VfL Marburg 1860.

“Fencing is a sport for the more calm-natured,” says Ullwer. Anyone looking to improve their coordination is in good hands here. Steffen Ullwer makes sure that beginners perform their first fencing movements with the right equipment. The foil used in the club—which is also available in a smaller version for younger participants—has blades made of flexible, rust-resistant steel. A fencing glove and a pair of fencing socks round out the equipment.

In the second semester of the 2021–22 school year, the fencing club will meet on Wednesdays. Until now, the club has met on Mondays. For any questions about fencing or what equipment is available, please contact teacher Steffen Ullwer (steffen.ullwer@steinmuehle.net).

3. March 2022

“Part German Shepherd, part meerkat”: Mara becomes a school dog

News, Social Engagement

Mara is unfazed. Small children, crowds, all kinds of noises, a skateboard whizzing by, bicycles, or joggers—nothing fazes her. The presence of teacher María Ramos’s dog is greeted with joy on the grounds of the Steinmühle. And soon, the four-legged friend starts stopping by Steinmühlenweg more often.

Mara is actually María Ramos’s daughter’s therapy dog. Her daughter wasn’t able to bring Mara with her to her facility. Ramos: “One day I thought, ‘We could do more with this animal’s potential.’ The school administration agreed with my idea of Mara becoming a school dog.” First and foremost, a temperament test is required. “Mara passed that successfully,” the teacher reports. Now Mara will undergo proper training. “She already knows all the commands.”

Mara’s roots are in the Balkans. She arrived in her new home in Germany malnourished, frightened, and “with patches of light-colored fur.” Mara spent her first six months on a farm with many children. This “cross between a German Shepherd and a meerkat” has been living with María Ramos since December 2020.

Those in charge are well aware that children will also need instructions on how to interact with the school dog. They also recognize that a school dog can help children cope with stress, promote their well-being, lift their spirits, and even improve their social skills.

We’re very excited to see how things turn out and look forward to Mara’s return with her “diploma.” We’ll continue our animal-themed report in due course.

3. March 2022

Opportunity for therapeutic conversations: “The service is available”

News, Politics, Business & Responsibility

Your thoughts are going in circles, even your closest friends don’t have a solution, and besides, you don’t want to go around telling everyone about your problem: For anyone who needs someone to talk to and would like to get an “outside” perspective, there’s been a new point of contact at Steinmühle since the start of the school year: Maria Sideraki. She’s available to anyone who’s stuck on an issue that’s really weighing on their mind or that they’d like to change.

Support in various life situations can mean many things. A student feels bullied, parents are worried about their daughter’s development, a teacher feels on the verge of burnout, an administrative staff member is struggling with a poor relationship with colleagues. — All of these examples are fictional. They are meant to illustrate just one thing: Anyone, regardless of their role within the Steinmühlen community, can take advantage of Maria Sideraki’s services. Frank Wemme, the head of the lower secondary school, is aware of the prejudices that persist to this day: “No, you’re not crazy just because you seek therapeutic help once in a while. There are many situations that can pull the rug out from under you. This could include the loss of a loved one due to separation or even death, or, for example, a medical diagnosis. The offer of counseling is there. You just have to accept it.”

Maria Sideraki has lived in Germany since she was 7 years old. Born in Athens, she initially lived in Kassel with her parents and siblings, attended high school there, and, after graduating from high school and completing a voluntary social service year, went on to study psychology and education in Marburg. “That was when I first came into contact with the Steinmühle,” she recalls. At the time, she was living in the Bremerhaus.

A few months after she graduated, her son was born. The two years of parental leave that followed are the only “personal” period in Maria Siderakis’s life, which otherwise features an impressive range of professional activities in the fields of psychotherapy and education, complemented by a dozen or so internships, continuing education courses, and volunteer work.

In summary, it can be said that the quadrilingual therapist (Greek, German, English, Arabic) has led many therapeutic interventions, provided support in many situations, and cared for many people over the years and decades—regardless of their age or nationality. Notable examples include her work in the field of psychogeriatrics at a nursing home in Marburg, conducting literacy courses for young adults in Wetzlar, and leading training sessions for children and adolescents on ADHD and social skills at a pediatric practice in Giessen. Parents were also involved in some of these courses. Since 2015, Maria Sideraki has been working at a practice for psychiatry and psychotherapy in Giessen, conducting psychological testing and diagnostics. At the same time, she works at the Rhön-Klinikum Gießen-Marburg, Giessen campus, in the Center for Social Pediatrics/Neuropediatrics. There, she specializes in educational and psychological assessment and therapy for children and adolescents and serves as the director of the Regulation Clinic.

Appointments with Maria Sideraki:

All students, parents, teachers, and staff at Steinmühle are welcome to take advantage of Maria Sideraki’s counseling services. If necessary, she may also observe classes. Individual sessions are scheduled for 45 minutes. Follow-up appointments are available as needed. Maria Sideraki is bound by confidentiality. She will not discuss the content of the sessions with any third parties. The costs of this service are shared equally between Steinmühle School and Steinmühle Boarding School. Appointments with Maria Sideraki can be scheduled through Frank Wemme via email frank.wemme@steinmuehle.net. Confidentiality is also guaranteed when contacting us.

3. March 2022