Lab events are events that include a in-person "experiment" portion at the competition. These events are considered lab events: Chem Lab, Forensics, Write it Do it, Experimental Design, Wind Power, Material Science, and Optics. A lot of these lab events are also considered mixed with study, meaning that there is a test portion. For more information, visit the "Binder" and "One pager" event pages.
The Chem Lab event in the Science Olympiad is a competitive, team-based challenge centered on chemistry topics such as Periodicity and Equilibrium for 2024. Participants, working in pairs, have 50 minutes to complete the tasks. They are allowed to bring a writing utensil, a Class III calculator, and a one-page note sheet. Proper lab safety gear, including eye protection and lab coats, is mandatory. Preparation tips include practicing with past tests and becoming familiar with the recommended lab equipment.
The Experimental Design event in Science Olympiad challenges participants to design, conduct, and report an experiment on-site. Given a set of materials and a scientific question, teams have 50 minutes to complete the task and write a detailed report, including sections like the problem statement, hypothesis, variables, procedure, data collection, analysis, and conclusion. Participants can bring writing utensils, a timepiece, a linear measuring device, and a calculator. Scoring is based on clarity, accuracy, and completeness, following a rubric. Practice with various experiments and detailed reporting is recommended for success.
The Forensics event in the Science Olympiad involves students using chemistry to solve a fictional crime scene. Participants analyze evidence such as powders, fibers, and hair, and perform techniques like chromatography and fingerprint analysis. Key skills include a strong understanding of chemistry, attention to detail, and logical reasoning. Preparing with past tests and learning common forensic techniques is beneficial.
The Materials Science event in Science Olympiad involves exploring the properties of materials such as metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. Teams complete lab activities and answer questions on topics like chemical and crystalline structures, reactivity, and behavior. Key areas include material characterization techniques, intermolecular forces, and surface chemistry. Participants can bring two Class III calculators and two double-sided note sheets. Proper lab safety gear, including chemical splash goggles, a lab coat or apron, and closed-toed shoes, is mandatory. Practicing with various materials and understanding their properties is beneficial for success in this event.
The Optics event in the Science Olympiad involves exploring the principles of light through hands-on activities and a written test. Participants position mirrors to direct a laser beam toward a target and complete a test on geometric and physical optics. Key topics include reflection, refraction, lenses, mirrors, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Teams can bring a binder with notes and two Class III calculators. Scoring is based on the accuracy of the laser beam's path and the correctness of the written test answers. Practicing with various setups and understanding light principles are essential for success.
The Wind Power event in the Science Olympiad involves designing and building a wind turbine to capture wind energy and taking a written test on alternative energy principles. Teams construct the turbine beforehand and test its energy generation during the competition. The written test covers topics like wind power and power generation. Participants can bring a binder with notes, multiple calculators, and must wear Category B safety spectacles during testing. Scoring is split evenly between the turbine's performance and the written test. Practicing different blade designs and studying wind energy principles is beneficial for this event.
The Write It Do It event in Science Olympiad tests communication and construction skills. One team member, the "writer," describes a given structure in detail, while the "doer" uses these instructions to recreate it. The writer has 25 minutes to write, and the doer has 20 minutes to build. Rules prohibit the use of pictures or diagrams. Scoring is based on the accuracy of the construction, with ties broken by completion time. Practice with various structures and clear descriptions is beneficial.