Each year, a short science book is selected for the science UIL test, covering in depth a special topic like astronomy or particle physics. Three questions on the exam are pulled directly from the book. Students can check out a book from Mr. Plybon, who has a class set. 

"The runaway success of the microchip processor may be reaching its end. Running up against the physical constraints of smaller and smaller sizes, traditional silicon chips are not likely to prove useful in solving humanity’s greatest challenges, from climate change, to global starvation, to incurable diseases. But the quantum computer, which harnesses the power and complexity of the atomic realm, already promises to be every bit as revolutionary as the transistor and microchip once were. Its unprecedented gains in computing power herald advancements that could change every aspect of our daily lives."

(read the full synopsis on Amazon.com) 

"This book is Kaku's weakest." - Mr. Plybon

Copies can be checked out from Mr. Plybon in the Fall. 

Quizzes of the book will be available on the Canvas. 

Calculators are provided, but you may bring your own if it is a...

• Casio FX-260 (includes all single-line display variants) 

• Sharp EL-501X 

• TI-30Xa (includes TI-30Xa Solar School Edition) 

• TI-30XIIS

TI-30XIIS are provided for students to use, as shown in the picture. Students may bring a second spare calculator to the test if it is a permitted calculator.

This guide from UIL tells exactly what will be on some of the questions.