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Check Progress

Review Questions
As students develop their essays, invite them to reflect on the process and evaluate their solutions (this process will help prepare them for the judges’ questions). Point out interesting ideas, creative thinking, and effective teamwork. Here are some questions to help guide discussion:

  • What research has been helpful in choosing an energy source and designing your solution?

  • Where did you get inspiration for your solution?

  • What are the intended benefits of your solution?

  • What trade-offs come with your solution?

  • How has the design process been helpful to you?

  • What have you learned about yourself and your teammates during this process?

  • What have you learned about engineering that you didn’t know before?

Review the Research Essay Rubric and evaluate the essay using the same questions the judges do.

Competition Checklist

  1. Include the name of your city on each page of your Research Essay. Remember, your future city name needs to remain consistent throughout the competition. Also, please include the organization name and your team name on the essay.
  2. Place the word count at the end of the essay. The word count does not include the title, the organization or team name, or the reference list, but does include captions of graphics and illustrations. A maximum of 4 graphics/illustrations are allowed.
  3. Complete the Research Essay Form. Remember the educator or the mentor must sign the form to attest to its accuracy.
  4. Use a variety of sources of information for research, such as interviews with experts, reference books, newspaper and magazine articles, and websites (Wikipedia is not accepted). Be sure to attach a list of at least three sources and use the Modern Language Association (MLA) format. Find a MLA reference template in Resources.
  5. Make a copy of the Essay Form, Research Essay, and Reference List to keep with your records.
  6. Submit the Research Essay and Research Essay Form to your Regional Coordinator.

Find your region for submission details and deadlines!