SSP Elementary School Science Olympiad Program (ESSOP)
The Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh (SSP), in conjunction with Central Elementary School in the Hampton Township School District, is sponsoring an Elementary Science Olympiad Program (ESOP). The main purpose of the ESOP is to excite, inspire, challenge, and foster the fun side of science for elementary students of all abilities. The SSP-ESOP provides information, manuals, training, and grant money for teachers and administrators to promote Science Olympiad programs in their schools or districts.
A Science Olympiad consists of different events where students take an active role in exploring science topics related to the school's science curriculum. The events can be scheduled to occur as half-day up to three-day competitions. The length of the Science Olympiad should be based on the needs and curriculum of the school. One of the goals of ESOP is the application of science and other skills to correlated events that are enjoyable and provide a variety of real-world experiences. The program helps students of all abilities succeed in science. It is designed for students in grades 4 through 6; however, it can be adapted to include lower grade levels.
