DAR announces 2008-2009 essay themes
Posted on Thursday, October 9, 2008
FAYETTEVILLE – The Marion Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution sponsors two essay contests on a yearly basis for students in our local schools. Both contests require a combination of reading and writing skills. Students must research a topic, organize pertinent facts and write an original essay.
They must follow contest rules concerning the information required on the title page and demonstrate knowledge of capitalization, punctuation, grammar and spelling. One of the most difficult skills for young writers is the ability to organize a bibliography using the correct formats for books and Internet websites.
The Daughters of the American Revolution Essay Contest for 2008-2009 is entitled "What message did the Gettysburg Address communicate to our wartorn nation in 1863 ? How are the ideals articulated in the speech still relevant for our country today ? "This contest is open to students in grades 5 through 8.
The Christopher Columbus Essay Contest is "Discuss five perils faced by Christopher Columbus'expedition (s ) and how Columbus and his crew overcame them. "This contest is open to students in grades 9 through 12.
Members of Marion Chapter graciously volun- teer to deliver contest rules to schools starting in the middle of September. Students have approximately 6 to 8 weeks to complete their essays. The deadline this year is November 5 th. All essays should be brought to the November 11 th chapter meeting. Thanks to all of the members who collect the essays on time.
First, second and third place winners are selected by a committee of Marion Chapter members. The first place winners in both contests receive a medal and $ 25. 00 in prize money. In the spring, a presentation is held at the Shiloh Museum in Springdale to honor these winners as well as students who have won other awards. Many parents and teachers attend this presentation, and it is a wonderful time for the community to see the DAR in action.
Teachers, parents or students who are interested in receiving more information about either contest can contact Susan Smith at se-smith @ hotmail. com. We hope to have more students involved in the contests this year.
Known as the largest women's patriotic organization in the world, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR ) has over 165, 000 members with approximately 3, 000 chapters in all 50 states and 11 foreign countries.
FEEDBACK:
Something to say about this topic? Submit a Letter to the Editor online