Maths in Medicine: How to Survive a Science Fair

When talking to secondary school students, first impressions are crucial. Accidentally say something that sounds boring and you'll lose them in seconds. A physical demonstration can be an eye-catching way to begin an activity or spark off a conversation about mathematics. This is especially true in the context of an event like a science fair where there are hundreds of other exhibitors and stands, possibly involving loud music and/or dancing robots! In this article we describe three devices that were built to illustrate specific physical phenomena that occur in the human body. Each device corresponds to a simple mathematical model which contains both elements that are accessible to pupils in the early years of secondary education and more challenging mathematical concepts that might appeal to A-level students. Two of the devices relate to the Windkessel effect, a physical phenomenon that regulates blood flow, and the third demonstrates the elastic properties of ligaments and tendons.