Earth Science Week Essay Contest

Share your thoughts and insights on Earth sciences in our engaging essay competition. Celebrate Earth Science Week 2024 with the essay contest theme: “How Earth Science Affects Us All”.

Contest Guidelines

Who can enter?

The essay contest is open to any interested person in grades 6-9. You must also be a resident of the United States to enter.

Your essay should focus on the topic “How Earth Science Affects Us All.”

Earth science involves studying Earth’s structure and processes, including many challenges like natural hazards, climate change, locating safe water, maintaining soil for agriculture, and sourcing clean energy. Knowledge of earth science can be used to understand and address these challenges. Write an essay that describes an example of how understanding a specific earth science concept can help address a challenge currently faced around the world.

The essay must be in English and contain no more than 300 words. Longer essays will be rejected unread.

Must be original, unpublished work

Entries must be previously unpublished, original content and must be the sole property of the entrants, not previously submitted to any other contest. Published material includes that which has been posted on the Internet.

In adherence to our commitment to promoting originality and creativity, the Earth Science Week essay contest strictly prohibits the use of Artificial intelligence (AI) powered resources to ensure that each submission reflects the genuine thoughts and expressions of its author.

What do I need to submit?

The essay contest is limited to one submission per entrant. A valid submission will contain the following information:

  1. A completed Microsoft Form found here
  2. One essay focusing on the topic “How Earth Science Affects Us All.”
  3. An entry form signed by a parent or guardian. Click here to download the essay contest release form.

When is the deadline?

All eligible submissions must be received electronically by 8 p.m. ET, Friday, October 18, 2024. Your essay submission is considered incomplete until we receive all of these items.

If you have any problems submitting your entry, please e-mail the Earth Science Week staff at contests@americangeosciences.org.