Science Bowl “helps you dive deeper": An interview with Mounds View High School students

Mounds View High School Science Bowl Team 1 - Jerry, Michael, Ahmed & Kylie

All four members of Mounds View High School’s Team 1 -- Jerry, Michael, Ahmed and Kylie -- are juniors, participating in Science Bowl for the first time. They began a student-led Science Bowl Club this year because they were looking for another science activity and entered two teams in the 2023 Minnesota High School Science Bowl. “We found it super interesting,” said Michael. 

Jerry liked the limited number of subjects covered in Science Bowl, as opposed to other activities like Quiz Bowl. “I like that the questions go a lot deeper and explore topics a lot more,” added Michael.

Learning to adhere to the specific rules of Science Bowl presented new, fun challenges for the Mounds View students, along with learning to balance working as a team and as individuals. They also noted that the fast pace of the competition was both challenging and exciting and that it would probably help them excel in subjects like math.

The team practiced once a week, using the resources provided on the Minnesota Academy of Science website and an online buzzer system. “It’s low stress and we can talk about the questions,” said one team member.

Students commented on how Science Bowl both benefits from and supports their classroom learning. Kylie noted that her classes have helped her do well in Science Bowl and that at the same time “Science Bowl actually helps with classes because it reinforces what I learn and helps me remember.” Micheal agrees, adding that Science Bowl “helps you dive deeper into topics you’ve learned before.”

The students enjoyed the in-person event at Minnetonka High School and participating in question and answer rounds. “I had more fun than I anticipated,” said Ahmed. Jerry agreed, adding that “it’s fun to see a lot of other kids who like what you do too.”

Jerry also appreciated the volunteers, noting that they were real scientists who understood the questions. “I might have trouble pronouncing the questions but they’re out there slaying it.” he laughed.