Am I eligible to participate in the Young Naturalist Awards?

If you are a student in grade 7 through 12 and are currently enrolled in a public, private, parochial or home school in the United States, Canada, the U.S. territories, or if you are a U.S. citizen in a U.S.-sponsored school abroad, you are eligible to enter. Sons and daughters of Alcoa Corporation and the American Museum of Natural History employees or consultants are ineligible.

Is there a theme for this year's awards program?

The theme of the Young Naturalist Awards is the same each year: "Scientific Discovery Begins with Expeditions!" Students choose a topic in biology, Earth science, or astronomy and take an expedition to an area where they can explore their topic.

How can I obtain entry materials?

All the forms and information you will need to enter are downloadable from this site. You may also call, write, or e-mail the Young Naturalist Awards Administrator with any questions you have.

Young Naturalist Awards Administrator
NCSLET
American Museum of Natural History
Central Park West @ 79th Street
New York, NY 10024
Telephone: 212-496-3498
yna@amnh.org

If I was a winner, finalist or semifinalist in the past, can I enter again?

As long as you are a student in grades 7-12, you may enter the contest each year.

Can more than one student from a class enter?

Yes.

Are group entries allowed?

Group entries are not allowed. All entries must be the work of a single individual.

What will the judges look for in an entry?

For detailed information on how your entry will be judged, see How Will My Entry be Judged

What do you mean by "go on an expedition?"

Scientists from the American Museum of Natural History go on many expeditions each year. They go to explore, collect data, and analyze and document their findings. You do not need to go to an exotic place to observe and collect data. Your expedition can be a class trip, a family vacation, or a visit to your local park, a nearby stream, or your own backyard. As long as you engage in the observation and collection of data, you are on a scientific expedition.

How do I take an expedition to study astronomy?

Although you cannot take an expedition into space, you can conduct astronomy fieldwork by observing the night sky using a telescope, binoculars, or by going to a local observatory. You can record data at varying intervals of time (different times of night) or at the same time each night.

How will I know if I am a finalist or winner?

The finalists and semi-finalists will be posted on our Web site during during the last week of April 2007. The winners will be notified via phone and by mail in late May 2007. Their first names and essay titles will be posted on our Web site.

Does a teacher, mentor, or parent need to review my work before submission?

Yes, a teacher, mentor, or parent must review your work, and fill in and sign the appropriate section on your entry form. This is to insure that the rules and regulations have been adhered to and to acknowledge that all your work is original.