Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is SSS?
The deadline for the submission of research papers is July 20, 2021. The Intensive Round begins on July 20, 2021, and ends on July 27, 2021. The winners will be announced soon after.
Q: What is SSS?
A: The Science Squad Symposium began as the Mecosta Osceola Science Symposium (MOSS), initially existing as an in-person-only experience. MOSS, the first science fair for middle and high school students in Big Rapids and the surrounding area, served as a venue for scientific exploration into a variety of topics, from statistical robotics to capitalistic incentives. The combination of research presentation and active problem solving was a unique combination that both engaged and challenged our young scientists.
As the Squad grew, we wanted to bring the fantastic symposium experience to as many people as possible, so we transitioned to an online model. Now, we've reached students across the US and Canada, and look forward to expanding further.
Our current model includes the Symposium Round (in which participants submit a 1-2 page research paper) and the Intensive Round. The Intensive Round is what makes SSS truly special. Participants wrestle with the idea of scientific inquiry itself, applying the root scientific method to baseline challenges that require no outside knowledge in three free response questions.
Visit our Rules and Resources page to learn more about the competition and to find helpful resources.
Q: Is SSS free to enter?
A: Yes! SSS, like all of our programs, is free of cost to the participants. We want to minimize any barriers between you and scientific enrichment. If you have financial difficulty obtaining materials for your project, contact us. We will do everything to make sure SSS is possible for you.
Q: How can I sign up for SSS?
A: Registration is now open, link can be found on the previous page (The Science Squad Symposium 2021).
Q: What kind of project can I submit to SSS?
A: As stated in our rules, all projects are eligible as long as they involve data analysis. Data collection does not have to be done by the participant necessarily. One could use data from an online database, or could collect it themselves. Either way is acceptable. Any topic matter is acceptable, from politics, to fashion, to the more traditional biology and physics. Example projects can be found on the Rules and Resources page. If you are unsure of whether a project is acceptable, email [email protected].
Q: I'm having trouble coming up with an idea for a project. What should I do?
A: No worries! We have a great resource to help you come up with a project idea. On our Rules and Resources page, we have a form that you can list a few of your interests and other details, and within one business day, we'll come up with some personalized ideas! In addition, on the Rules and Resources page, we have sample projects that you can look to for inspiration.
Q: I have some questions that aren't listed here. How can I get answers to them?
A: If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please contact us. We are available by email at [email protected], on Facebook as The Science Squad Corporation, on Twitter at @thescisquad_, and on Instagram as @thescisquad_.
The deadline for the submission of research papers is July 20, 2021. The Intensive Round begins on July 20, 2021, and ends on July 27, 2021. The winners will be announced soon after.
Q: What is SSS?
A: The Science Squad Symposium began as the Mecosta Osceola Science Symposium (MOSS), initially existing as an in-person-only experience. MOSS, the first science fair for middle and high school students in Big Rapids and the surrounding area, served as a venue for scientific exploration into a variety of topics, from statistical robotics to capitalistic incentives. The combination of research presentation and active problem solving was a unique combination that both engaged and challenged our young scientists.
As the Squad grew, we wanted to bring the fantastic symposium experience to as many people as possible, so we transitioned to an online model. Now, we've reached students across the US and Canada, and look forward to expanding further.
Our current model includes the Symposium Round (in which participants submit a 1-2 page research paper) and the Intensive Round. The Intensive Round is what makes SSS truly special. Participants wrestle with the idea of scientific inquiry itself, applying the root scientific method to baseline challenges that require no outside knowledge in three free response questions.
Visit our Rules and Resources page to learn more about the competition and to find helpful resources.
Q: Is SSS free to enter?
A: Yes! SSS, like all of our programs, is free of cost to the participants. We want to minimize any barriers between you and scientific enrichment. If you have financial difficulty obtaining materials for your project, contact us. We will do everything to make sure SSS is possible for you.
Q: How can I sign up for SSS?
A: Registration is now open, link can be found on the previous page (The Science Squad Symposium 2021).
Q: What kind of project can I submit to SSS?
A: As stated in our rules, all projects are eligible as long as they involve data analysis. Data collection does not have to be done by the participant necessarily. One could use data from an online database, or could collect it themselves. Either way is acceptable. Any topic matter is acceptable, from politics, to fashion, to the more traditional biology and physics. Example projects can be found on the Rules and Resources page. If you are unsure of whether a project is acceptable, email [email protected].
Q: I'm having trouble coming up with an idea for a project. What should I do?
A: No worries! We have a great resource to help you come up with a project idea. On our Rules and Resources page, we have a form that you can list a few of your interests and other details, and within one business day, we'll come up with some personalized ideas! In addition, on the Rules and Resources page, we have sample projects that you can look to for inspiration.
Q: I have some questions that aren't listed here. How can I get answers to them?
A: If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please contact us. We are available by email at [email protected], on Facebook as The Science Squad Corporation, on Twitter at @thescisquad_, and on Instagram as @thescisquad_.
