STEM Essay Contest

2020 STEM Essay Contest
A unique opportunity for students to explore STEM concepts while developing their research, writing, and communication skills.
Submissions for the 2020 STEM Essay Contest are closed. The 2021 STEM Essay Contest will open in Fall of 2021.

Introduction

Though STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, we know that students must be able to write and communicate effectively to be successful in STEM fields. We are pleased to announce the first Tennessee STEM Essay Contest, a TN ELA standards aligned opportunity for students to explore STEM concepts while developing their skills in research, writing, and communication. This project is designed to support learning in-class, at-home, or in a hybrid model of instruction. 

2020 Essay Prompt 

Exploring Positive Impacts from Global Changes 

In the changing world we now live in, it's easy to get weighed down by the negative aspects of change. Change can be difficult, especially when we don't know what awaits us. Change can also be an exciting opportunity to inspire new discoveries, ideas, values, and revelations in STEM fields. These are known as unintended positive consequences. Think about the positive consequences you have observed, experienced, or questioned regarding our changing world. Select an unintended, positive consequence of our changing world and compose an essay that argues for and supports further exploration, investment, and discovery within this area. 

In searching for an unintended positive consequence, you might want to look into one of the areas listed below. They can help guide your thinking and research. Remember to select a topic that is interesting to you and consider what STEM questions and opportunities each topic raises. 
  • Ecological and Environmental Changes
  • Transportation of People or Goods
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship 
  • Methods of Communications
  • Physical Activity and Health
Through the support of three incredible Tennessee educators, we have provided Resources and Guiding Documents to support the roll-out of the project. Thank you to Misty Brown from L&N STEM Academy, Katie McKee from Midway Middle School, and Shelli Childers from Carmel Elementary for your leadership on this project. 

Contest Details

Eligibility - all students K-12 in Tennessee have the opportunity to enter the contest at their grade band.

Parameters - 
  • Elementary Grades (K-4)
    • Typed
    • Word Count: 250-500 words (1-2 pages)
  • Middle Grades (5-8)
    • Typed
    • Proper citations for quotes with Works Cited page
    • MLA format: Times New Roman, 12 point font, double spaced, one inch margins
    • Word Count: 500-750 words (2-3 pages)
  • High School
    • Typed
    • Proper citations for quotes with Works Cited page
    • MLA format: Times New Roman, 12 point font, double spaced, one inch margins
    • Word Count: 750-1000 words (3-4 pages)
Submission - Students should submit their essays using the form below by October 31st, 2020. For K-4 submissions, students will likely require support in uploading and submitting their essays. Please ensure students receive a confirmation screen after submission. 

Recognition - Educators are encouraged to use the attached rubrics to evaluate student essay submissions as a component of coursework. In addition, a review team will evaluate student submissions and TSIN will recognize one student per gradeband as the statewide winner. Each winner will win an education technology tool of their choosing and their essays will be featured on the TSIN blog and shared statewide. 

Resources and Guiding Documents

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