DAR Essay Requirements
2011-2012 American History Essay Contest
Young America Takes a Stand: The War of 1812
· Prompt: Pretend you were alive during the War of 1812 and had a friend who has become famous in history because of standing up for America during that exciting but dangerous time. Describe the person and how he or she stood up for America. Explain why it is important to honor such heroes when we celebrate the 200th Anniversary of War of 1812.
· Contest Rules
- Must be handwritten in black ink, typed, or prepared on computer or word processor with non-script font no smaller than 12 pt and no larger than 14 pt. Word processor entries are preferred. Essay must be student's own original work.
· Essay Length:
1. All words count. Title page and Bibliography excluded. Dates count as one word.
2. Grades 6-8 600 to 1000 words
· Title Page must contain these elements:
o Title: “Young America Takes a Stand: The War of 1812
o Contestant's full name and address
o Contestant's phone number and area code (This information is used to contact student if he/she
is a winner and is not shared!)
o Contestant's email address, if available
o Name of Contestant's school and grade level
o Name of Sponsoring DAR Chapter- (Quaker Meadows Chapter)
o Number of words in the essay
· Bibliography:
o Must be included
o Must list all references utilized
o Internet resources, if used, should be cited in similar format to that used for printed resources. Add the electronic address used to access the document as supplementary information.
o Any essay with information copied directly from sources without using quotes will be disqualified.
- Judging will be based upon the following considerations:
o Completeness of Title Page
o Historical Accuracy
o Adherence to Subject
o Organization of Material - paragraphs are a must!
o Originality
o Interest
o Spelling and Punctuation
o Grammar
o Bibliography- absence of bibliography disqualifies the essay
Notes:
1. Students should write essays based on factual information while using creative writing methods.
2. I will work with students on providing background information and historical facts.
3. I will assist students in developing a Title Page and Bibliography.
4. I will make suggestions as to the organization of the essay. I can also proofread the essay before submitting it for competition.
5. All students are required to submit an essay to their teacher as part of the 6th grade writing curriculum. Students do not have to enter the contest if they do not wish to.
Due Dates: Rough Draft – October 24, 2011
Final Draft – October 27, 2011
Helpful Links–
1. PBS series slated to premier Oct. 10 – 9pm
8. The War of 1812 - History.com
9. Key Events and Causes of the War of 1812 (table)
10. Library of Congress - War of 1812 Guide
11. A Brief Summary of the War of 1812 (video)
12. The War of 1812 Website
Download the Sample Title Page and Video Notes from the "Resources" tab on the left.