Chartiers Valley Primary students put science skills to test at annual Olympiad

Chartiers Valley first grader Ivy Woods carefully lined up her small, wooden catapult and placed a gummy bear in its bucket.

And with a quick fling of the catapult, the gummy bear launched in the target’s bull’s-eye.

The gummy bear launch was one of 14 stations at Chartiers Valley Primary School’s annual Science and STEM Olympiad for first graders on March 26.

“All of the stations are based off what they learned in science class or STEM class,” said Ellen Zissis, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teacher. “It’s things they’ve learned throughout the year.”

Stations included a “pentathlon,” where students answered review questions as they ran through an obstacle course; building a “marshmallow tower;” boat races; and building a bridge designed to hold weights.

Ivy, 7, liked all the activities, but the gummy bear launch was her favorite.

“It’s fun to launch to gummy bears,” she said.

Zissis said students tell her the Olympiad is one of their favorite days of the year.

“Participation in a science olympiad can foster a love for science, cultivate important skills, and lay a foundation for future learning in STEM fields,” Zissis said. “The activities are age-appropriate, hands-on and designed to spark curiosity and exploration.”

Students Luke Thomas and Olivia Weber, both 6, said they enjoyed the day. Luke liked building things with Play-Doh.

“It’s cool” to learn about science, Olivia said.