The national biology competition: Criteria for assessing students' knowledge and skills

Abstract

Quality education is a key priority for democratic societies. Investment in youth is a token for success with high returns. Bulgarian students achieve considerable success at various international forums such as Olympiads, competitions, and contests and frequently win medals and prestigious rewards. One of the principal reasons for the success of our students is precisely the approach in preparation and selection of students chosen to compete at such forums. The National Biology Competition for Students grades 7 and 8 is a considerable platform for future achievements in the field of biology. The idea for conducting a large scale display of students' capabilities is directly related to pupils' strong interest, enveloping student's creative skills and love for the science of biology. The original style and formulation of the problems at the National Biology Competition stimulate creativity and thinking, encourage curiosity and serve as a trampoline for deciphering, learning and solving scientific problems. In the current report, we analyze the theoretical knowledge and practical skills of students in solving the problems in three sub-areas of biology: anatomy, physiology, and human hygiene, suggested by the National Biology Competition conducted in 2007 in the city of Gabrovo. © 2009 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.