Interested in pursuing a STEM major, or just need more practice for physics class? Give the Physics Club a try! The club’s purpose is to prepare students for the Physics Bowl, a nationwide competition focused on a multiple choice physics exam taken during the spring semester. Unlike the Science and Ocean Sciences Bowls, there’s no presentation or public speaking aspect to this competition. There are two different groups that students can qualify for based on their knowledge of physics (known as Division 1 and Division 2), so anyone who has taken a physics class is welcome to join.
Last year was the first time that La Cañada High School entered the the competition, and we ended up winning 4th place in the Southern California region!
Audrey Chen (11), who was part of last year’s team, noted that her experience was especially helpful while she was taking a physics course.
“I had a lot of trouble with physics [during sophomore year], and this was a great way for me to practice things we learned in class,” she said. “Many of the same concepts were covered as review for the Physics Bowl test.”
She added that individuals and districts that score well on the exam are also eligible for awards and scholarships, depending on how successful they are in the competition.
Physics teacher Eryn Walsh encouraged students to take advantage of the practice sessions being offered through the club.
“It’s a fun way [for them] to deepen their understanding of physics, and this is knowledge that they’ll continue to build upon for any career in STEM,” she noted.
She also praised Audrey and Kamyar Salahi’s (12) hard work as the club’s student leaders, and said how excited she is to see the club grow and progress throughout the year.
Club meetings are currently being held in Ms. Walsh’s room during lunch on Mondays, so be sure to stop by and check out what the Physics Bowl is all about!
Photo from Creative Commons
