Are the Geography Bee, Envirothons and other competitions compulsory, strongly advised, or what?
Envirothon is compulsory. Geography Bee was “advised” for Vlad last year; of course, after winning, he didn’t need to be nudged again. I signed Frank up and said, “You’re coming to this.” I’m sure he’ll be enthusiastic next year after doing so well.
I don’t give them study assignments for geography, just remind them, if they’re at loose ends, that they could go look at a map or do a quiz.
Envirothon is different, more of a class, with meetings and assignments, and a commitment to your team to give it your best effort.