What is the Science Olympiad?

The National Science Olympiad is an international nonprofit organization devoted to improving the quality of science education and increasing student interest in science. The Science Olympiad has been on the cutting edge of educational innovations for thirty-two years. These innovations include an emphasis on high academic standards; demonstration of skills through performance testing; learning through hands-on, minds-on activities; cooperative learning through events which require teamwork; improved self-concept through success in achieving high standards; mastery learning of core curriculum goals and objectives; making applications and connections to the real world; and integrating not only the disciplines of science but the entire spectrum of learning. Beginning as a group of science educators, Science Olympiad has evolved into one of the top science competitions in the United States, allowing thousands of students from nearly 6,500+ teams in 50 states to challenge themselves and achieve their maximum potential.  With a constantly changing roster of events in all areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Science Olympiad opens students’ eyes to a multitude of scientific disciplines and possible future careers and enhances classroom education with a diverse wealth of content.

The Olympiad Tournament

During the school year, each school develops a team of 15 students prepared to compete in Science Olympiad tournaments held on the local, state, and national levels. These interscholastic competitions consist of a series of 46 individual and team events that encourage learning in biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, problem solving, and technology. Events in the Science Olympiad have been designed to recognize the wide variety of skills that students possess. While some events require knowledge of scientific facts and concepts, others rely on science processes, skills, or applications. This ensures that everyone can participate, including students from technology classes or advanced science classes. There is an Olympiad division for 4th-6th  grade (A), 6th-9th grade (B), and 9th-12th grade (C).