Science

Elements of the Contest

The purpose of the Science Contest is to challenge high school students to do a wide range of reading in biology, chemistry and physics, to gain an understanding of the significance of experiments rather than to recall obscure details, to be alert to new discoveries and information in the areas of science, to gain an understanding of the basic principles as well as knowledge of the history and philosophy of science, and to foster a sense of enthusiasm about science and how it affects our daily lives.

The contest consists of a two-hour objective test with 60 questions – 20 from biology, 20 from chemistry and 20 from physics.

Additional Information

Awards

Individual Competition: First, second and third place overall winners qualify for the next higher level of competition. Alternates are named for the overall winners. If an individual qualifier cannot compete at the next higher meet, the alternate shall be notified and allowed to compete.

Top Scorer: The contestants with the top score in each of the three subject areas qualify for the next higher level of competition. One alternate is named for each of the three subject areas. If a top scorer qualifier cannot compete at the next higher meet, the alternate shall be notified and allowed to compete.

Team Competition: Four members of the winning team will advance to the next higher level of competition. If a member of a school’s team is unable to compete at the next higher level of competition, only one substitution may be made. The substitute shall give the contest director a letter certifying eligibility signed by a school administrator.