Connecting across cultures. Exploring new perspectives. Growing through experience.
On-the-Spot Essay Writing Competition
About the Competition
The On-the-Spot Essay Writing Competition challenges participants to develop a clear, well-reasoned response to a topic drawn from the conference's main theme and sub-themes.
Each school is represented by one competitor, who is given one hour to produce a 500–750-word academic essay entirely by hand. The essay topic is revealed only at the start of the competition, and no electronic devices are permitted. Participants therefore have to draw upon their existing knowledge, formulate a position, develop and organise their arguments, and communicate their ideas clearly within the stipulated time.
Essays are assessed on the clarity and depth of their arguments, organisation and structure, grammar and sentence construction, vocabulary and diction, language and style, as well as the overall clarity and presentation of the written piece.
500–750 WORDS • PEN & PAPER • TOPIC REVEALED ON THE SPOT • NO ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Our Representative
Representing Canberra Secondary School was Nur Aneeqa Abu Saufi from 3 Empathy, who received the topic: Behavior, Awareness, and the Power of Choice for a Low-Carbon Future.
Drawing upon her preparation for the conference themes, Aneeqa had to respond specifically to the topic presented on the day. Within one hour, she had to determine her position, select and develop relevant arguments, structure them into a coherent response and complete a 500–750-word handwritten essay.
In Her Own Words...
“I was feeling very nervous before the competition and wasn't fully confident in myself or my essay-writing skills. I encountered many challenges throughout the competition. However, I pushed myself, didn't give up and gave it my best.
I feel that I put perseverance into action as I went through the competition without giving up easily. I also demonstrated adaptability as I was able to adjust to the changes in the essay format and still tried my best until the end.”