What is the Science Olympiad?

• Nationally recognized program for enhancing science education and interest in science
• A science competition for teams of up to 15 students
• Age-related activities (K-2; 3-5; 6-9; 9-12) spanning all areas of science
• Activities emphasize doing and applying science
• Teams advance from regional to state to national competitions

But what about the Georgia Performance Standards?

• Each event is tied to numerous Georgia Performance Standards:
  • Grades 3-5
  • Grades 6-8
  • Grades 9-12
• Specific GPS/Olympiad classroom activities are being developed (check here often).

Where are tournaments held?

• For elementary schools, usually within a school or school system
• For middle (B division) and high (C division) schools, at 14 colleges around the state
• Some schools will hold practice invitational tournaments before actual tournament.

How are students recognized?

• All participants receive certificates.
• Medals are given for first 3 or 4 places in EACH event.
• Ribbons are given in EACH event for placing among top 10 places.
• Schools receive trophies/plaques for overall places 1-5

How does the Georgia Program compare to programs in other states?

• More than 300 schools in GA have Science Olympiad programs.
• Georgia’s program is 8th largest in county.
• Georgia middle school teams have won the national title 10 out of the last 12 years.
• Three GA scientists serve as national event supervisors.
• Augusta State University has been selected to host the national competition in May 2009 (http://www.aug.edu/nso)
• Executive director: Dr. Bill Wellnitz, Dept. Biology, Augusta State University, (706) 731-7993; wwellnit@aug.edu

How can I become a part of the GA Science Olympiad program (GAS0)?

• Become a coach and register a team.
• Become a parent to community volunteer to help a schools team.
• Volunteer to help with an event at a tournament.
• Become a sponsor.