Job Discussion Forums

[voodikon]

this is an essay contest sponsored by a u.s.-based organization who promotes biking--who would be better equipped--generally speaking--to write about biking than chinese students? there are three age categories, going up to 16 years old, and there are cash prizes awarded.

when i taught i found giving students concrete tasks like this--with a goal (and with this, prestige and money also at stake)--really helped them focus and inspired them to use the english they've been studying for a specific purpose.

anyway, if you're interested, here's the info:

http://www.ibike.org/essays/index.htm

below is the information from the site:
SUBJECT: Your essay may be on any aspect of bicycling (history, touring, racing, commuting, role in society, learning, teaching, etc.) *
ENTRY: Essays should be in English, legible and 2-3 pages. Entrants can base their paper on interviews, research, and/or personal opinion. Include: (Bold items are required.)
your name,
your address,
your telephone number (if possible),
your email address (if possible),
your age on the day that the entry is mailed,
your grade,
your school,
your school address
your teacher's name,
teacher's telephone number (if possible)
teacher's email address (if possible).
Girls and boys from all countries are encouraged to participate. You need not be a bicyclist. All essays become the property of the International Bicycle Fund. Decisions of the judges are final.
ENTRY CATEGORIES AND FIRST PLACE PRIZES:
A. Age 8 and under, US$20.00 (up to half of the entry may be illustration).
B. Age 9-12, US$30.00
C. Age 13-16, US$50.00
Additional prizes may be awarded.
DEADLINE: Entry must be postmarked by 1 May and arrive no later than 15 May, each year.
SEND ENTRIES TO: International Bicycle Fund, 4887 Columbia Drive South, Seattle WA 98108-1919 USA. Or, email entries to ibike @ibike.org.