A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO ...
It's hard being a beginner in Division C Science Olympiad. If you did Science Olympiad in most middle schools in San Diego, chances are that you had coaches, scheduled meetings/practices with the rest of your event teams, and so much more.
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Unlike those schools, many high school teams do not have coaches or scheduled meetings. All participants are expected to self-study -- and along with being in a new school, difficult classes, and adjusting to a higher workload, it can be daunting to get started. And that's why we've made a handy guide to getting started. Whether you've done SciOly for 3 years or 0, here's all the information you'll need to know!
... BUILDING
So you're in a build event. Did you want this? Maybe you signed up for one, or maybe you were forced into it. Regardless, regionals are in a few months, and you need to build something to test. SO, here's what to do:
Plan! Figure out what you even need to build by referencing the rules manual. Then, follow the parameters they set to devise a plan for your device. If you ever get stuck, there are plenty of resources that can help inspire your design! You can look at the SOINC and Scioly.Org Wiki pages for your event, videos that touch on helpful concepts, or ask other people who've done the event before for advice.
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Get Materials! Now that you have a plan, you need to get the materials to actually build your device. Some general places that are good to look for materials are Home Depot, Hobby Lobby, and maybe even Amazon depending on what you need. There are also kits available for some events, that you may want to look at! If you want to be reimbursed for the money you spend on materials, talk to an officer or Mrs. Fowler early in the season, so we can coordinate that with you :)
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Construct! Using your materials, construct your device according to your plan. Some devices may require the use of power tools, so make sure to be careful when constructing! Safety should be your TOP priority!!
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Test! Congratulations, now you have a prototype for your device! You should test it to make sure it works as well as you planned before the competition. If not, you may need to repeat this process again or make slight modifications to your device. Don't worry, this is completely normal! You may even go through multiple prototypes before you're fully satisfied with your device.
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Create your Design Log! Most events will also ask for you to submit a physical Design Log when you impound your device. This will often include:
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A diagram of the device you constructed, and the materials you used
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Multiple charts with sample test values of your device
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Be sure to check the rules manual and SOINC page for your event to make sure you meet all the requirements in your Design Log! Even if your device does not perform as well during the competition, the Design Log ensures that you at least get SOME points for your effort.
Good luck! We hope this advice can help you all in your new build event. Come back with some medals for us :)