OVCA Science Fair Winner Shows that Plants Like Music, Too 

At just 8 years old, Aurora S. is already an award-winning scientist. 

The second grader at Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA) recently won first place at the elementary school science fair by testing if plants grow faster when surrounded by music. A music fan herself, Aurora guessed that listening to music might help plants in the same way it helps her — by providing relaxation and fun. 

For her experiment, Aurora grew two tomato plants from seeds in identical conditions. For 10 days, Plant A “listened” to calming music and nature sounds from an mp3 player. Plant B, on the other hand, had no music. Throughout the growing period, Aurora took photos and notes, ultimately proving her hypothesis.  

“People and plants are similar in many ways,” Aurora observed. “I think the plant liked the music because it helped it to relax and feel strong.”  

Aurora enjoys being outdoors, including gardening and camping. OVCA has been a perfect fit for her curiosity, according to her mother, Becky S., who has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. 

“OVCA has challenged Aurora to try new things, and I feel it has helped her with her studies and focus,” Becky said. “As a mom and educator, I am so proud of her.”  

For winning the science fair, Aurora received a new microscope so she can continue her science exploration. She is already looking forward to trying new experiments! 

Aurora was recently featured in her hometown newspaper, the Durant Democrat.