Possible Events for the November 2016 Northwestern Ontario Science Olympics
JUNIOR (Grades 9 & 10)
Event #1 – Hot Cross Biology
In the biology event you will find yourselves recalling natural history vocabulary as you solve clues, some of which will have you scrutinizing tangible flora.
Be sure to clearly print the criss-crossing words and remember caps would be preferred! .
Event #2 – Chemical Constructions
This event is about communication and building molecular models. Photographs of completed molecular models, e.g. SO2 (sulphur dioxide) orC6H6CH3 (toluene), are placed in the hallway. A team member communicates details of the structure to their team, who use the components to build that model, which will be checked by a judge.
Event #3 – Fermi Hunt
Science, technology and math are all around us, and today teams will be roving around the Bora Laskin Building to answer a situated set of Fermi questions. Calculators, computers, cell phones, or any other device, including crib sheets, lists of constants, formulae, etc., are not permitted.
Common Event #4 - Engineering Challenge
This culminating challenge sees teams building a device to perform a specific task using only the materials provided in exactly 50 minutes.
SENIOR (GRADES (11 & 12)
Event #1 – Fermi Questions
Fermi questions are well-defined problems that can be solved through estimation and approximation. Teams will solve 25 problems in 40 minutes. The event will take place in the gym. Calculators, computers, cell phones, or any other device, including crib sheets, lists of constants, formulae, etc., are not permitted. Pencils and scratch paper will be provided. There will be a local focus to some of the questions.
Event #2 - Models of Macromolecules
Teams use the materials provided to build a labeled model of a biological macromolecule (One of DNA, RNA or a protein such as Myoglobin, Haemoglobin or Insulin). After completing the model, teams will answer a set of questions describing its key structural components and behaviour. Materials chosen will enable teams to demonstrate their creativity and knowledge.
Event #3 INDYcator 500
Teams use a range of indicators to measure the pH of three unknown liquids. They are provided with buffer solutions of known pH values and work to get precise values for the pH of all three unknowns in the lowest time possible.
Common Event #4 - Engineering Challenge
This culminating challenge sees teams building a device to perform a specific task using only the materials provided in exactly 50 minutes.