Students from Templeton Secondary School work through the Forensic Chemistry Challenge.
For immediate release
December 3, 2012
Kwantlen Science Challenge stimulates high school students to pursue science in university
(Metro Vancouver, BC) – Over 300 high school students across the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, and Vancouver Island participated in Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) seventh annual Science Challenge at its Richmond Campus on November 24, 2012. Students spent an intense day of head-to-head competition testing science know-how and ingenuity.
“We organize this event to encourage students to continue studying science and hope that science will play a role in their post-secondary education,” said Don Mathewson, physics instructor, event co-ordinator, KPU. “We want to encourage students to ask questions.”
Teams of senior and junior high school students competed in five, one-hour, practical laboratory activities in biology, chemistry, engineering design, geology, mathematics, physics and Science Jeopardy. Scores were based on successful solution of design problems, good experimental technique and measurement skills, correct application of science concepts, and correct use of data and calculations to draw conclusions. The hands-on activities are designed to be educational, entertaining, and challenging. Prizes are given to the top five senior and top five junior teams.
“I am so proud of the commitment of faculty, staff and students to promoting science in our community,” said Betty Worobec, dean, faculty of science and horticulture, KPU. “It is an absolute joy to experience the enthusiasm for science exhibited by all of our future scientists at this unique event!”
Favian Yee, a science teacher from North Delta Secondary, added, “our team has been really excited about the Kwantlen Science Challenge. They have been constantly talking about it during class; this is a sign of genuine student engagement.”
Kwantlen's annual Science Challenge was developed for young people in science to showcase how science works, who scientists are, the kinds of work they do, and why science matters in the everyday lives of British Columbians and the communities they live in. Registration for the event is limited to 30 senior and 30 junior teams.
KPU’s science programs provide students with an education beyond classroom learning, in a scholarly discipline that also prepares them for professional careers. For more information visit, kwantlen.ca/science.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts and science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 18,000 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations. Please visit: kwantlen.ca.
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For more information about this event contact:
Don Mathewson
Instructor, KPU
Tel: 604-599-2616
don.mathewson@kwantlen.ca
For more information on KPU contact:
Cara Johnson
Media Specialist
Tel: 604.598.6196
cara.johnson@kwantlen.ca