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Subchapter D: 2nd-8th Grades (1466)

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Subchapter D: 2nd-8th Grades (1466)

Section 1466: SCIENCE

(a) THE CONTEST.
 

(1) Summary. Emphasis for the Science contest will be placed on knowledge of scientific fact, understanding of scientific principles and the ability to think through scientific problems. The contests are designed to test not only memory but the ability to think critically about science and scientific processes and concepts. Such concepts include, but are not limited to: matter and energy, equilibrium, force and motion, physical and chemical properties, the relationship between organisms and the environment, the components of our solar system, the composition of matter and genetics. The contests will build upon the vast body of changing and increasing knowledge described by physical, mathematical and conceptual models.

(2) Contest Format. Each test will consist of approximately 50 objective questions that will be taken primarily from current state-adopted science textbooks and the curriculum. Forty-five minutes will be allotted for the testing period exclusive of time required for instructions.

(b) REPRESENTATION.
 

(1) Contestants. Students in officially prescribed grade levels below 9th grade who are eligible under Section 1400 or 1405 may enter this contest.

(2) Divisions. Districts shall offer either a separate division for each grade level or combined grade level divisions as specified in official contest procedures.

(3) Individual Competition. Each participant school may enter as many as three contestants per division in the district meet.

(4) Team Competition. If the district has elected to include team competition, the combined scores of the three contestants in each division from a school shall constitute the school’s team score. A team shall have three contestants compete to participate in the team competition.

(c) CONTEST ADMINISTRATION.

(1) Personnel. All personnel in this contest may be coaches of participating students.

(2) Verification Period. A verification period shall be provided. Unofficial results should be posted. Contestants and coaches should be given no more than 15 minutes to examine their test papers with official keys. Questions should be directed to the contest director, whose decision shall be final.

(3) Ties and Points. Ties shall not be broken. If there is a tie for first place, there is no second place. If there is a tie for second place, there is not third, etc. Points are awarded as specified in Section 1408 (i).

(4) Official Results. After the verification period has ended and all test papers and answer sheets have been collected, the 
contest director shall announce the official results. Official results, once announced, are final.

(5) Returning Materials. No materials from district contests may be returned to contestants prior to official release dates.