Fun & Inquiry Exhibited During the MS Math/Science Olympics

On a bright, sunny day in June, North Shore Middle School students participated in a fun and educational event called the Math/Science Olympics. On the lower field, students dressed in various colors representing their designated teams gathered to participate in the following fun and educational activities: “The Need for Speed,”  “Sponge Squeeze,” “Ultimate Frisbee Forces,” “Fire Away,”and “The Sky is the Limit.”

Initiated by teachers in both the Math and Science departments, each of the activities challenged the students to utilize knowledge gained during the year in both subjects. They had to think like scientists and mathematicians in order to collect data and solve problems. Additionally, tools such as calculators, stop watches, meter sticks, and triple beam balances were provided to help the students achieve their goals. 

For example, in “Ultimate Frisbee Forces,” one team member had to use a stopwatch to measure the time it takes for the Frisbee to leave the throwers hand and hit the ground while another team member measured the distance the Frisbee was thrown using a meter stick. Students then had to calculate the velocity of the Frisbee and use the answer to calculate the acceleration.  
 
Additionally, as with most activities at North Shore Middle School, the school theme of E3 (Everyone Matters, Everyone Cares and Everyone Learns) was demonstrated. As the students competed in each of the activities, they cheered their teammates on and displayed sportsmanship to the opposing teams while firing sling shots, racing to the finish line, and building the tallest gum drop tower! Many thanks to all the teachers in both departments at North Shore Middle School for helping to make the Math/Science Olympics such a fun and educational event!

Article and photos by Shelly Newman