Since the beginning of the school year, Mr. Felix Sanchez, math teacher has been recruiting and preparing students for this year’s Academic Decathlon competition in January in Merced.
Starting in August to January, students will have to study the theme “Our Changing Climate” in each of the following subjects, math, literature, history, science, economics, art, and music. Students receive study materials to assist them in these topics. The US Academic Decathlon organization sells materials such as resource guides, exercise books, and flashcards among other materials. They also sell licenses to their online training website that helps students see how the questions will appear on the actual tests.
There are three sub-teams based on GPA: Honors (4.0 – 3.8), Scholastic (3.7 – 3.2), and Varsity (3.1 and below). In each team there are nine students, which has three in each sub-team.
There are ten events in the competition. Students take seven 30-minute multiple-choice tests alongside performance events such as a prepared speech, an impromptu speech, essay, and interview component, and a super quiz which includes questions from all the tested subjects, except math, where the entire team works together to answer questions. Each subject area contributes to their overall score, totaling 10,000 possible points across all events.
This is Sanchez’s first year at coaching Academic Decathlon. He said, “I think it is super cool; I love it.”
The Academic Decathlon offers students an opportunity to compete in one in-person event with the potential to make it to nationals. If a team wins they have the chance to go across the country. However, students should expect to give up a lot of their free time in studying and practicing. While there aren’t specific requirements to join Academic Decathlon, students are expected to demonstrate good behavior and study well.
Sanchez aims to meet twice a week during Pride Time on Thursdays and Fridays. If students need additional time he is willing to meet after school on Mondays. Students will be placed in sub-teams based on the practice test. Students who prefer to work individually can compete in the events by themselves.
Students who join Academic Decathlon can receive scholarships. There are three teams and best overall person can win a $500 scholarship, then the prizes of $250 will be awarded to the highest scoring students of both varsity and scholastics.
Sanchez stated, “I would say just give it a shot” to students that are hesitant to join.
If anyone is interested in joining Academic Decathlon or wants more information, contact Mr. Sanchez in room 44.
