Scioly.org

randomperson wrote:are you allowed to use special symbols for abbreviations such as the degree symbol (a small circle) for the word "degrees"?

No. That would violate the special symbol clause in the rules. If you can't make the symbol with a single keystroke or a single keystroke with the shift key, then it is not allowed. On a standard keyboard, of course.

How annoying. But if you said * = degrees eariler in paper could you use that?

Yes, I believe you could, if you said that an asterisk signifies degrees. Just don't use the degrees sign.

Can writers touch the object at all.

Anatprof77 wrote:Can writers touch the object at all.

I have never had a supervisor allow this. I assume they don't allow this because the writer could damage the model...

Depending on the competition, I've experienced that either each person has their own model of the object, or a few people share a model of the object. If you have your own object, it is usually easy to see everything. When the object is shared, I've had some supervisors allow writers to get up and look around the object without touching it, but I have had other supervisors who required writers to remain seated, and rotated the object periodically to allow the writer to have a better view.

EpicFailure wrote:In the rules, it states that you can use abbreviations. But are you allowed to use special symbols for abbreviations such as the degree symbol (a small circle) for the word "degrees"?

"Only numerals, words and single letters may be used. Symbols, drawings and diagrams are not allowed, with the exeption of common punctuation and editing symbols. Printable punctuation marks/editing symbols that can be produced on a PC standard 101 key keyboard by pressing a single key or a single key in combination in with the shift key may be used. These must be used in their notmal context and not as symbols to form a key/code. All abbreviations (not symbols) must be defined either at tge beggining or when the abbreviation is first used. No prepared abbreviations on labels may be used." (2011 Science Olympiad Division B Rules Manual)

I don't know if you're division b or c, but I would think that these rules would apply to both divisions.

JustDroobles wrote:

Anatprof77 wrote:Can writers touch the object at all.

I have never had a supervisor allow this. I assume they don't allow this because the writer could damage the model...

Depending on the competition, I've experienced that either each person has their own model of the object, or a few people share a model of the object. If you have your own object, it is usually easy to see everything. When the object is shared, I've had some supervisors allow writers to get up and look around the object without touching it, but I have had other supervisors who required writers to remain seated, and rotated the object periodically to allow the writer to have a better view.

I have seen event supervisors run it each way mentioned and probably more. Some have had individual object for each person, some have a few kids sharing one model, and I have even been in competitions where they only have one model for the entire group (EVIL!!!). Some have allowed us to physically move the object, usually the more structurally sound ones that would be more difficult to break, and supervisors that allow you to move around the object. Everything depends on the event supervisor.

If you are unsure, ask them, especially if you cannot see something and it is important. They will tell you what you are and are not able to do.

Anyways, it does not have to effect how you practice, does it?

Is there anyway to study and take notes for this event?

Just practice with your partner. Thats about all you can do.

does anybody know where i can find stuff to practice with