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JA Build a Better World Video Essay Contest, Presented by Bechtel



Overview

This JA Worldwide video essay contest is presented by Bechtel and is designed to recognize middle school and high school students participating in the JA/ Bechtel "Building Future Leaders Initiative". The goal is to encourage students to dream about their part in "building a better future", as well as extract information learned from the classroom and effectively communicate lessons learned by applying them to their future.

Photo/Video Release Form

Prizes

  • The contest will award one outstanding high school participant and one outstanding middle school student in each of the 11 implementation sites, as well as their sponsoring schools.
  • 22 student winners (11middle school, 11 high school) will qualify to win a technology prize (ie- iPad – Kindle).
  • The sponsoring school also will be awarded a cash grant to be applied toward purchase of a technology item for the classroom where JA programming was delivered.

Submission Guidelines

    1. Building on the concepts and ideas delivered during the JA program, each applicant will create a video essay, montage or mash-up. The video concept and delivery is at the discretion of the applicant. For instance, it could be a personal narrative, or in the case of the montage or mash-up style, could derive content from a variety of sources blended together to create one cohesive piece that tells their story.
    2. The video should highlight the applicant’s JA experience while also clearly demonstrating how the lessons they have learned can/will apply toward building a better world.
    3. Videos should be uploaded to the JA FTP site at the following link: http://ftp.ja.org/Build%20A%20Better%20World/CGI/upload.asp
    4. Submissions will be accepted until Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Criteria

  • All video presentations must be made in English (greetings and similar in another language are acceptable).
  • The maximum time allocated for each video presentation is 2 minutes.
  • The presentation should grab the attention of the viewer and spotlight not only the student’s JA experience, but their viewpoint on how to parlay the experience into building a better future. The video should bring to life the benefits and value of the student’s JA experience in a way that will be memorable for viewers.
  • When making your video, think of some of the best videos you have seen – what made them the best and what made them memorable? Were they funny, innovative, or shocking? Did they tell a story? Did they speak to an experience you personally have felt?
  • Videos should not contain copyrighted material without express written consent for its use.
  • Participating students must complete the contest permission form in order to participate.
  • All submitted videos will become the property of JA Worldwide.
  • For additional resources on making a video montage or mash-up consult the internet. There is a wealth of resources available to guide you in how to approach making a video of this type.
  • Acknowledge Bechtel in your video
  • Key Points Assessed by Judges

    Scoring will be assessed on the following basis:

    • Compelling/Convincing
    • Relevance/Content
    • Delivery technique/Style
    • Clarity of message
    • Collaboration

    Timeline

    • Upon conclusion of the submission period (10/31/12) videos will be judged by a review committee comprised of Junior Achievement and Bechtel staff
    • Video essays will be reviewed, scored, and winning videos selected for the JA Build a Better World Contest as part of the JA/ Bechtel Foundation "Building Future Leaders Initiative"
    • Winners will be announced in late November 2012.