Consider a scenario in which Sarah, an academically inclined middle schooler, was bored in school. She knew she could do a lot more but was not being challenged. Then she discovered academic competitions. Such experiences lit a fire in her and challenged her to reach new academic heights.
An academic competition is a structured event that challenges students on various knowledge- & skill-based subjects. It’s like the Olympics, but for the brain. Helping students to develop into thinkers, teachers through competition, and readiness for college. They aren’t about winning; they’re about learning and growth.
Why Academic Competitions Count for Middle Schoolers
Academic competition can be life-changing for a young student. They offer rewards that well outlast a medal.
Boosting Academic Performance
Competitions encourage students to acquire additional knowledge beyond the classroom. They bolster what’s already being taught — and introduce cool new concepts. This gives you a new perspective on information. It is like a real world test. It makes the lessons more relevant and interesting.
Developing Crucial Skills
There is more to academic competitions than knowledge. They’re also about putting them to use. Students need to know how to solve a problem, work in teams, and manage their time. Why are these skills so important to school and life?
Discovering Confidence and Resilience
It can be scary to compete. It is the facing of challenges that builds confidence. Trial and error is the name of the game and failure helps in the long run. Competitions instill resilience and perseverance in these kids. This prepares them to deal with difficult circumstances down the line.
Academic Competitions for Middle School students
Middle school has tons of academic competitions. Choose a subject that speaks to you, and dive in.
STEM Competitions
GIST ambassadorships are focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) competitions. Science Olympiad is a big one— it has events spanning all areas of science. MATHCOUNTS challenges your math skills through fun problems. Robotics competitions, like VEX Robotics, allow you to build and program robots. They each offer unique learning opportunities.
The Science Olympiad has lots of events, like building a bridge or solving a forensics mystery. Every event poses a unique challenge to students. It is an excellent technique for exploring above and beyond the textbook in sciences.
Competitions in the Arts and the Humanities
If you love writing, history or the arts, these competitions are right up your alley! The National History Bee quizzes you on historical facts. They teach you to argue and persuade in debate tournaments. Writing contests allow an opportunity to showcase your creative works.
GK and Quiz Bowl Competitions
Quiz bowl is a fast-paced game in which teams answer questions about a wide range of subjects. General knowledge competitions measure you on everything from history to pop culture. You will become a trivia master. It can remotely teach you new things.
Tips for Finding the Right Competitions
Extremely tough to find the right competition. But with a little research, you can find one that aligns with your interests and skills.
Researching Online Resources
Websites that list academic competitions are numerous. Visit the websites for Science Olympiad or MATHCOUNTS. Check out other sites that provide listings for competitions in your favorite subjects. These locations provide information, guidelines and dates for upcoming functions.
Talking to Teachers and Counselors
Talk to your teachers and guidance counselors. They tend to be aware of local and national competitions. They can advise you on which ones might suit you. They may even assist you in putting a team together.
Weighing Interests and Strengths
Choose a competition that aligns your passion with your profession. If you excel at math, try MATHCOUNTS. Enter a writing contest if you like the written word. This way, it becomes fun to do what you do best.
These are my best tips for Academic Competitions
Competing in tournaments requires preparation. But if you have a plan, you can be prepared.
Developing a Study Plan
Make a schedule to study. Establish dedicated time each day/week to dig into course material. Split the topics into smaller pieces. This prevents you from getting engulfed. As much as possible try and adhere to your plan.
Accessing Resources and Practice Material
Prepare yourself with books, online material, test papers, etc. [My own] Many competitions provide example questions or past exams. Go through these to get a feel for what to expect.
Looking for some support and guidance
Do you even know what that means? Older students who have competed before can give advice. You can seek out coaches to sharpen your skills and prepare you. They provide great insight.
The Advantages: More than Just for Redundancy
The advantages of participating in academic competitions extend well beyond the final bell. It is not a single affair.
College Applications and Financial Aid
Colleges want students who stretch themselves. You are ambitious, skilled from academic competitions. A win in a competition can strengthen your application. It can help you get scholarships, as well.
Future Career Prospects
The learnings you gain from competitions are applicable at work. You learn to solve problems, work in teams and manage time. Employers value these. Competing can be a big boost for your career.
Professional Development and Learning Mindset
You also make get love for learning with academic competitions. They give you a sounding board to ask questions, try new things. And you will never stop having questions, which is a great way to live.
Conclusion
The academic competitions for middlers are powerful. They improve academic performance, teach important skills and increase confidence. They assist with collegem and career readiness. Learn the fundamentals of academic competitions. Nurture your child’s passions. You never know what they can achieve.
