Australian Science Innovations

Big Science

Rio Tinto Big Science aims to enthuse students and encourage them to study science and consider science-based careers.

The Big Science Competition tests students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well their science knowledge. The Competition is a one-hour paper containing 30 multiple-choice questions. There are three levels of papers: Junior (Years 7 and 8), Intermediate (Years 9 and 10) and Senior (Years 11 and 12).

Test questions are written by the Australian Council for Educational Research, Australia's leading organisation for educational research. Schools are provided with a report describing how their students have performed in the Competition. School reports are provided online.

All participating students are given a certificate to recognise their achievement in the Competition, and top-scoring students are given special acknowledgement.

In 2011, top-scoring students and an accompanying teacher or parent were flown to Canberra for a ceremony at Parliament House. The Minister for Schools, Education, Early Childhood and Youth, the Honourable Peter Garrett AM MP spoke at the Presentation.

The Rio Tinto Big Science Competition began in 2005. Student registrations from all states of Australia and neighbouring countries in Asia have increased steadily, with schools in Singapore, New Zealand and the Philippines being regular participants in the Competition.

How to participate

Schools must register the number of students who intend to participate via our website. In 2012 the Big Science Competition will be held on the 23rd of May. The cost per student in 2012 will be $7.00 (excl. GST).