As the IESO 2009 coincides with the 10th anniversary of the 921 Chichi Earthquake which has left an indelible scar on both the land and the hearts of the Taiwanese people, this international event has a special implication for the host country - Taiwan. In order to commemorate this devastating event and also the Earth Science Olympiad activity, the IESO organizing committee plans to hold a Rock Knowledge Assembly after the Olympiad in September. In this ceremony, we would like every participant to lay a specimen of rock to form the pattern: “IESO 2009” in a school ground. To make this monument exceptionally meaningful, we encourage every student to make a short statement to express any thoughts they may have toward the IESO event as they lay down the rocks. Students can take this opportunity to reflect on what they have learned throughout their entire learning experience in Taiwan. For the teams which only consist of observers, the observers instead will make the statements. Having laid out all the rocks that every country brings, it completes the Rock Knowledge. We are hoping that every student will carry the memory, learning experience and the spirit of Rock Knowledge with them as they return home. The site where the Rock Knowledge activity is held will later become a permanent monument maintained by the National Hsi-Hu Senior High School. Each and every participant is welcomed by the high school to visit the permanent monument again any time in the future in order to be reminded of their contributions in this significant event.
We would like to request each team member including the mentors to bring a piece of rock specimen which can best represent their countries. Please bring as many different types of rocks as you may desire. The total types of rocks should at least correspond to the number of team members, including mentors, observers, and students. The size of the rock specimen should be approximately 10cm by 10cm, similar to the size shown blow. Please note that soils are strictly prohibited by the Taiwanese laws and regulations.
We appreciate your contribution to this great event. Your participation in this “United Nation Rock Monument” would be a great milestone to document the significance of IESO 2009.
