EngineerGirl Writing Contest
EngineerGirl Writing Contest is a writing competition where students are invited to write a piece exploring the lifecycle of everyday items and the types of engineering involved along the way.
Interested in the competition?
Competition Overview
Students grades 3-12
Eligibility
Free
Entry fee
February 1, 2025
Submission deadline
Competition Details
1. Eligibility
The contest is open to students from grades 3 to 12.
2. Theme
Innovating Smarter
3. Judging
Submissions will be judged by a panel of volunteers, including professionals from various engineering fields. They will ensure that submissions meet all basic rules and evaluate them based on the following criteria:
Presentation of engineering (~50%)
Perspectives considered (~35%)
Quality of writing (~15%)
4. Prizes
Winners in each grade category will receive the prizes listed below:
- First-place winners will be awarded $1,000.
- Second-place entries will be awarded $750.
- Third-place entries will be awarded $500.
Winning entries, along with honorable mention entries, will be published on the EngineerGirl website.
Submission Requirements
1. General Guidelines
Smart objects are internet-connected devices that enhance everyday functions but also introduce risks. Imagine making a household item, toy, or furniture smart. Consider what data it would need to function and the potential security or privacy concerns that could arise.
Word count:
- Elementary School (Grades 3-5): 800-word max.
- Middle School (Grades 6-8): 1,000-word max.
High School (Grades 9-12): 1,200-word max.
2. Elementary School (Grades 3-5)
Choose an object to make smart, describe its purpose and desired smart functions. Explain what personal data it would need, where it would come from, and discuss potential privacy risks and solutions.
3. Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Choose an object to make smart, describe its purpose, current use, and desired smart functions. Identify the personal data it would need, its sources, and potential privacy risks. Discuss cybersecurity threats and explain at least two security measures to protect the device. Optionally, include up to five APA-formatted references (not counted in the word limit).
4. High School (Grades 9-12)
Choose an object to enhance with AI and smart functionality. Describe its current use and desired smart features. Identify the personal data it would need, its sources, and potential privacy risks. Discuss cybersecurity threats and explain at least two security measures to protect the device. Analyze AI-related risks, including biases, and propose ethical solutions. Include a reference list of up to eight APA-formatted sources (not counted in the word limit).
