How to enter the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge.

Overview

The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge is the premier national science competition for students in grades 5 through 8. The Young Scientist Challenge is designed to encourage the exploration of science and innovation among America's youth and to promote the importance of science communication. In 1999, Discovery Communications launched the competition to nurture the next generation of American scientists at a critical age when interest in science begins to decline. In 2008 3M joined forces with Discovery Education in a quest to nurture the next generation of American scientists with an innovative and interactive science program open to every middle school student in America. Over the last ten years, more than 600,000 middle school students have been nominated to participate in the competition, and winners have gone on to speak in front of members of Congress, work with the nation's top scientists, and pursue academic careers in the sciences.

How To Enter

In order to enter, students must be in grades 5 through 8, and must submit a video entry online.

Students will be challenged to create a one- to two-minute video about a specific scientific concept which they will select from a list of concepts provided by YSC judges.

Video entries must demonstrate the student's understanding of the scientific concept explained and should also exhibit his or her comfort level discussing science in general.

Videos do NOT need to be "produced" or have high production value. Judges are not evaluating production skills. Videos may be recorded on cell phones or simple digital cameras, for example. In addition, local libraries and schools may be able to loan cameras to students.

Videos will be screened to determine whether they meet all entry requirements and will then be presented to a panel of online judges.

Video entries will be due in May 2011.

Judges will review the video submissions and announce by May 30th 10 finalists and up to 51 merit winners: one from each state and the District of Columbia.

NEW! Summer Mentorship Program

The 10 finalists will be paired with 3M scientists to complete a summer assignment having to do with innovation. Together they will work virtually through pre-assigned objectives with resources and support provided by Discovery Education.

Final Event at 3M Innovation Headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota

In the fall, 10 finalists will receive an all-expense-paid trip to St. Paul, Minnesota, during which they will present their completed "innovation" to a panel of judges.

Finalists will be judged on their scientific problem solving and communication skills.

Prizing

At the end of the competition, America's Top Young Scientist will be awarded $25,000 in cash and other finalists will receive exciting prizes.

Sample prizing for winners include:

Merit Winners (up to 51 - one from each State and the District of Columbia)

• 3M Innovation Package
• Plaque/certificate
• YSC Premium

Finalists

• An all-expenses- paid trip for the student and ONE parent/guardian to competition finals
• Cash prize
• Medal/plaque/certificate
• A chance to win various prize trips (in the past we've sent students to Space Camp, on a trip with Rangers at a National Park, etc.)

First Place

• $25,000 in cash
• A trip to 3M's World Headquarters
• Trophy/plaque/certificate
• The title of "America's Top Young Scientist"