Friday, July 5, 2013

The Second Annual Quiz Competition

Friday marked GHEI’s highly anticipated and extremely popular Second Annual Quiz Competition. The competition gives students from each of Humjibre’s schools an opportunity to come together, compete side-by-side, and share what they have learned. In total, more than 600 people including students, teachers, members of the Library Board, the Humjibre Chief and Elders and other community members attended the event at the JoeKwart Memorial Community Center. Supporters packed the center and sat by their schools where they were ready to celebrate every correct answer.

The event was split into three rounds: one for Lower Primary (P1-P3 classes), one for Upper Primary (P4-P6 classes) and one for Junior High School. Teams of three, representing each of the four primary schools, competed during the two primary rounds. For the third round, teams from the two JHS’ in Humjibre competed head-to-head. In total, 30 students participated.

 Teams took turns using a set amount of time to attempt to answer each question. If they got it right, points would be added toward their final score. If they got it wrong, the question would be passed on to the next team for bonus points.

In its second year, the competition has become more sophisticated. Teachers demanded that the schools be placed in a random order since it is advantageous to follow weaker teams. Schools that were less prepared will want to prove themselves and become the ones to beat next year. Students competing for multiple years and family dynasties have also emerged. Moving forward, competitors will know to watch out for the all-stars and their younger siblings as they get older. To help control the lively crowd and deter potential cheaters, GHEI threatened to hand out yellow and red cards to schools who engaged in foul play. Luckily, no red cards were awarded and no one had to be disqualified. After close competitions, the two first-place schools were Memorial Primary and Deeper JHS.

Organizing the event was a tremendous effort. GHEI is thrilled to have hosted another successful Quiz Competition and grateful for the help of our two volunteers, Dan Doverspike and John Schaidler, who played an integral role in the its planning.

Overall, the event was a great opportunity for community members to get excited about books and rally around their schools. Clement Donkor spoke during the event to remind everybody that its’ purpose is to support the education of Humjibre’s schoolchildren. Academic competitions give students an opportunity to challenge themselves, practice critical thinking and public speaking, and help them grow to be future leaders. Everyone at the center was invested in the competition; at one point the Quiz Master had to turn around and advise some of the teachers who could not contain their excitement; “If you have a suggestion, put it in the box!” Those teachers, along with their students, GHEI and the entire community will be looking forward to the event next year.

As always, don’t forget to check our Facebook where more photos will be posted on Monday!

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