SUCCESS IN THE NATIONAL SCIENCE OLYMPIAD AND THE RECONSTRUCTION OF LEARNING THROUGH PRACTICAL CLASSES

Abstract

This report describes the implementation of weekly, curriculum-integrated Biology experimental practices, coupled with large-scale participation in the National Science Olympiad (ONC), as a post-pandemic learning recovery strategy at ECITE Advogado Nobel Vita (Coremas, Paraíba, Brazil). Launched in April 2023, the intervention was grounded in Brazil’s BNCC and 21st-century competencies (creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking), blending theory with laboratory activities (microscopy, osmosis, bovine-heart–based circulatory system anatomy and dissection, parasitology) and practical assessments. Outcomes showed substantial gains in performance and engagement: when assessed practically, class averages rose compared to theoretical tests (Grade 10-A: 4.8 to 7.7; 10-B: 3.5 to 8.0; 11-A: 6.7 to 9.4; 11-B: 3.5 to 9.0; 12-A: 4.2 to 8.0; 12-B: 4.8 to 8.0) and average attendance exceeded 96%. The school enrolled 100% of students (346 participants) in the ONC and achieved statewide prominence with two gold medals, one bronze, and four honorable mentions. We conclude that placing experimental practice at the center—supported by laboratory infrastructure (22 microscopes, slides, and specific materials) and cohesive study guides—promotes active learning, student agency, and improved educational indicators; we recommend further institutionalization (a lab technician, maintenance, and supplies), consolidating olympiad mentoring, and intensifying monitoring of the most impactful practices.