The Elementary Science Olympiad has returned after a three-year hiatus, with 270 students from 3rd grade through 5th grade participating in STEM-related activities at Chattanooga State. One of the competitors, Jameson Cavanagh, explained that one of the tasks involved building a device out of certain materials to protect an egg. Cavanagh partnered with Brennan Yann and the two successfully completed the egg drop task without breaking their egg.
Other competitors focused on different activities like sky quest, which tested their knowledge of constellations. Samara Brigner mentioned that they learned about the strength of different materials, with paper and Styrofoam being effective choices. Lainey Stalans explained her involvement in an activity called ‘name that scientist,’ matching scientists to their inventions.
Megan Bragg, an associate professor of chemistry at Chattanooga State, played a key role in organizing the event. She oversaw stations like ‘bridge-a-roni,’ where students tested pasta pieces to see how much weight they could hold. Bragg emphasized the importance of STEM events in encouraging students to explore math and science further, possibly leading to future career opportunities.
Developing interests at a young age could potentially lead students to pursue careers in STEM fields according to Bragg. She expressed the joy of seeing students engage in the activities and gain educational benefits while having fun. Cavanagh and Yann agreed that the Olympiad was both enjoyable and educational, highlighting the positive impact of participating in such events on young minds.
