By Daniel Zapien
Have you ever been to a Science Olympiad? Do you enjoy exploring your creative side? The Science Olympiad team meets every Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. The coaches are sixth grade math and science teacher, Ms. Melissa Chou, and Mr. Justin Betzelberger. Sixth and seventh graders form the team. They meet to prepare and train for the upcoming event, which will be on Saturday, February 27, 2016, at Occidental College.
The first place winner receives a large trophy for the school, second place winner receives a small individual trophy, and third place receives a medal.
Via lacountyscienceolympiad.org
For grades six through twelve, the Science Olympiad functions like a football or baseball team, requiring preparation, commitment, coaching and practice throughout the year. Each school-based team is allowed to bring 15 students who train for different events in their skill set. The Science Olympiad competitions are made up of 23 teams, and every year, a variety of events are offered in the fields of genetics, earth science, chemistry, anatomy, physics, geology, mechanical engineering, and technology. By having all of these different categories, it encourages students to get involved.
“Coaching the students for the Science Olympiads is an amazing experience. I enjoy seeing students explore projects that are relevant to future careers and watching them learn independently,” explained Ms. Chou.
Ms. Chou meets with the Science Olympiad team once a week for an hour to prep and train. Her students apply themselves in researching and strategizing these projects. They learn the value of teamwork and preparation. Ms. Chou works hard to establish these skills because they are important for future careers.
“Students enjoy participating in the Olympiads because they get to work in groups with their friends, build projects, and explore science,” Ms. Chou adds.
By participating in these kinds of events, the students start preparing for their future careers. Through the Science Olympiad, students and teachers bond together and work toward a mutual goal. This is important because it helps the students to have good relationships and learn how to be social.
“To be able to create a passion for learning, I strive and emphasize to the students the importance of being creative and the importance of teamwork and commitment.” Ms. Chou adds.
Coaches like Ms. Chou are hard to find, and the inspiration that she gives her students is valuable. It gives students self-esteem and a safe place for them to be themselves. Students learn interesting new things, make new friends, explore new experiences and learn hands-on group participation. After reading this, are you game for the next Science Olympiad?