Washington State Ocean Sciences Bowl (Orca Bowl)
Saturday, February 6, 2010

Sign Up Now to Compete

Orca Bowl 2010, the regional academic competition of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB), is accepting as many as 16 teams. Register now to compete in the 13th annual Orca Bowl, scheduled for Saturday, February 6, at the University of Washington’s Seattle campus. Two teams per school or organization may register now. Depending on availability, additional teams may be added after January 15. For detailed information on Orca Bowl 2010, contact Julie Hahn, Regional Coordinator (jkhahn@u.washington.edu or 206.685.9117) at Washington Sea Grant. Information about the National Ocean Sciences Bowl, along with competition rules, team requirements and suggestions for preparatory materials, can be found at http://nosb.org.

Overview

Orca Bowl challenges and recognizes high school students’ knowledge of the world’s oceans. The competition lasts a full day, with teams competing in a round-robin tournament followed by a double elimination. Students tackle questions in all areas of marine studies, including ocean-related physics, chemistry, geology, biology, social sciences and technology. Students face rapid-fire multiple choice, short-answer and team-challenge questions that require strong problem-solving skills and close cooperation.

All teams receive prizes for participation, with top awards that include scholarships and shipboard science experiences. The event also provides an opportunity for students to meet university and ocean community scientists, faculty and student volunteers. The winning team from Orca Bowl will travel, all expenses paid, to the National Ocean Sciences Bowl finals, to be held in St. Petersburg, Florida, on April 23-25, 2010.

The National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB) is a program of the Consortium for Ocean Leadership. Approximately 2,000 students from more than 400 high schools participate in 25 regional competitions. Through this educational forum, NOSB encourages and supports the next generation of marine scientists, policy makers, teachers, explorers, technicians, environmental advocates and informed citizens.