Many of the successful essays from past years have been a result of collaboration with science teachers following elements of the school district's Analytic Writing Assessment Rubric, which is available through your teacher. Teachers assigning Caring for the Kenai may select up to three of their best entries to be included
in the final level of the essay competition.

Teacher selections must be noted on the student's entry blank.

Originality

• Is this a good example of creative problem solving?
• Is this a new, different or improved approach?
• If you have improved your idea from a former entry, how is it improved?

Proposal Feasibility

• Has this been carefully thought out and researched?
• What is the environmental benefit?
• Is this a practical idea that could actually be implemented?

Written Presentation

• Introduction (1-2 paragraphs)
• Background
• Present problem
• Proposed solution or idea
• Explanation of solution (3-4 paragraphs)
• Include diagrams, graphics & charts
• Explain technology used
• Nature and scope of solution or idea

Conclusion (1-2 paragraphs)

• Define environmental benefits
• Explain economic feasibility
• Provide graphic supplements
• Include visual aids (charts, graphs, design sketches, models, or videos) that enhance understanding of idea

Oral Presentation Guidelines (Finalists only)

• Limit your presentation to five minutes
• Use visual aids (transparencies, posters, charts, slides, videos)
• Give handouts to judges
• Sell your idea
• Anticipate questions from the judges:

• Funding sources?
• Implementation costs?
• Marketability of product or idea?