Prompts

2012 Essay Prompt

Select one of the following three essay topics for submission:

1. Columbia University researcher Robin Bell once wrote, “We as scientists have failed
to adequately articulate why science is important so that few understand the scientific process
and what it contributes to society at large.” Please discuss why you believe science is important
and what impact it has on society.

2. How do you think science education can be improved in United States schools? In
answering, be sure to consider whether the solutions you suggest are feasible.

3. In high school, students learn a variety of science topics (chemistry, biology, physics),
but not all students follow scientific careers. Please consider whether science education is
important in high school, and justify your response.