WV TSA High School Competitions
Event Eligibility Chart
Use this chart to see whether an event is a team or individual event. Some events can be either a team or individual. Others have specific guidelines on how many individuals must be on a team.
Eligibility Chart - HS.pdf
Adobe Acrobat document [38.4 KB]
Use this chart to see whether an event is a team or individual event. Some events can be either a team or individual. Others have specific guidelines on how many individuals must be on a team.
Eligibility Chart - HS.pdf
Adobe Acrobat document [38.4 KB]
|
Below is a summary description of the 2024-2026 high school level TSA competitive
events. Detailed specifications and rules regarding each event can be found in the 2024 and 2026 High School Technology Activities,
National TSA Conference Competitive Events Guide.
|
Animatronics
To address the annual design challenge, participants exhibit and demonstrate their knowledge of
mechanical and control systems by creating an animatronic device with a specific purpose (i.e., communicate an idea, entertain, demonstrate a concept, etc.) that includes sound, lights, and an
appropriate surrounding environment (a display).
2024-25 Design problem: Following the
specified requirements, create an enimatronic exhibit for a public library to excite young readers.
Architectural Design
In response to the annual design challenge, participants develop a set of architectural plans and
related materials, and construct both a physical and computer-generated model to accurately depict their design. Semifinalists deliver a presentation and participate in an interview.
Audio Podcasting
Participants use digital audio technology to create original content for a podcast piece that addresses
the annual theme. The podcast must feature high level storytelling techniques, voice acting, and folly sound effects; the full entry must include documentation of the podcast development process and
elements. Semifinalists participate in an interview.
2024-25 Theme: Preparing to compete in a TSA event and/or preparing for your first TSA
conference
Biotechnology Design
Participants select a contemporary biotechnology problem that addresses the annual theme and
demonstrates understanding of the topic through documented research, the development of a solution, a display (including an optional model or prototype), and an effective multimedia presentation.
Semifinalists deliver a presentation and participate in an interview.
2024-25 Theme: Tissue Engineering. Tissue Engineering is a biomedical engineering discipline
that uses a combination of cells, engineering, materials methods, and suitable biochemical and physicochemical factors to restore, maintain, improve, or replace different types of biological
tissues.
Board Game Design
Participants develop, build, and package a board game that focuses on a subject of their choice.
Creative packaging, and the instructions, pieces, and cards associated with the pilot game will be evaluated. Semifinalists set up the game, demonstrate how the game is played, explain the game’s
features, and discuss the design process.
2024-25
Topic: Tissue Engineering. Tissue Engineering is a biomedical engineering discipline that
uses a combination of cells, engineering, materials methods, and suitable biochemical and physicochemical factors to restore, maintain, improve, or replace different types of biological
tissues.
Chapter Team
Participants take a parliamentary procedure test to qualify for the semifinal round of competition.
Semifinalists conduct an opening ceremony, items of business, parliamentary actions, and a closing ceremony.
Children's Stories
In response to the annual theme, participants create an illustrated children’s story of artistic,
instructional, and social value, and submit documentation related to the development of the physical storybook. Semifinalists read their story aloud and participate in an interview.
2024-25
Theme: Create a “touch and feel” or interactive storybook that introduces TSA and its
benefits to young readers in an engaging manner.
Coding
Participants take a test, which concentrates on aspects of coding, to qualify for the semifinal round of
competition. Semifinalists develop a software program – in a designated amount of time – that accurately addresses an onsite problem.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Architecture
Participants use complex computer graphic skills, tools, and processes to respond to a design challenge
in which they develop representations of architectural subjects, such as foundation and/or floor plans, and/or elevation drawings, and/or details of architectural ornamentation or cabinetry. The
solution to the design challenge and participant answers in an interview are evaluated.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Engineering
Participants use complex computer graphic skills, tools, and processes to respond to a design challenge
in which they develop three-dimensional representations of engineering subjects, such as a machine part, tool, device, or manufactured product. The solution to the design challenge and participant
answers in an interview are evaluated.
Data Science and Analytics
Participants identify a societal issue, collect or compile data from various sources about the issue,
and then produce documentation and a digital scientific poster about their findings. Semifinalists create a synopsis and digital visual representation of a data set provided in an onsite
challenge.
2024-25 Topic: Identify and use a "Real Estate," "Housing," and/or "Community" related
open-source data set for your analyses and research. In the scientific poster, cite the source of the data, including the URL/domain and file format.
Debating Technological Issues
Participants research the annual topic and subtopics and prepare for a debate against a team from
another chapter. Teams are instructed to take either the pro or con side of a selected subtopic, submit a summary of references, and use their research to support their assigned position. The quality
of a team’s debate determines semifinalists and finalists.
2024-25 Topic: Biotechnology
- Subtopic 1: Biometric identification poses a security threat within the digital world.
- Subtopic 2: Gene-editing biotechnologies such as the CRISPR-Cas9 system, set a dangerous precedent for science applications in healthcare.
- Subtopic 3: Brain interface technologies, such as Elon Musk’s Neuralink, provide a unique and beneficial solution to mental health issues.
Digital Video Production
Participants develop and submit a digital video and a documentation portfolio (including such items as a
storyboard, script, summary of references and sources, and equipment list) that reflects the annual theme. Semifinalists participate in an interview.
2024-5 Theme: Create a short film that includes at least 30 seconds of
animation
Dragster Design
Participants design, draw, and construct a CO2-powered dragster that adheres to specifications, design
and documentation requirements, and the annual theme. Semifinalists compete in a double-elimination race and participate in an interview.
2024-2025 Problem: Address weights and lengths only; there are no special design
challenges.
Drone Challenge (UAV)
Participants design, build, assemble, document, and test fly an open-source Unmanned Arial Vehicle (UAV)
according to the stated annual theme/problem specifications. The required documentation portfolio must include elements such as a photographic log, wiring schematics, and a description of the
programming software used. Semifinalists participate in an interview.
Engineering Design
Participants develop a solution to an annual theme that is based on a specific challenge noted by the
National Academy of Engineering (NAE) in its compilation of the grand challenges for engineering in the 21st century. The solution will include a documentation portfolio, a display, and a
model/prototype. Semifinalists deliver a presentation and participate in an interview.
2024-25 Topic: Manage the nitrogen cycle
Extemporaneous Speech
Participants select a technology-related or TSA topic from among three topic cards and prepare and give
a three-to-five-minute speech that communicates their knowledge of the chosen topic. The quality of the speech determines advancement to the semifinalist level of competition, for which an identical
competition procedure is followed to determine finalists.
Fashion Design and Technology
To address the annual theme, participants demonstrate expertise in fashion design principles by creating
a wearable garment, garment patterns, and a documentation portfolio. Semifinalist teams present their garment designs (worn by team models), discuss the design process with evaluators, and respond to
interview questions.
2024-25
Theme:
Create a prototype of a marching band uniform for a performance with the theme of “Earth, Wind, Fire, Water.” The prototype must include a type of wearable technology. No pyrotechnics or ignitable elements are permitted.
Teams will submit one (1) or two (2) garments for judging (top and bottom or one [1]-piece.) All required components must fit inside a 32-quart plastic container. Any accessories (hats, gloves, boots, etc.) may be used during semifinalist presentations, however, they are not submitted in the preliminary round.
Flight Endurance
Participants design, build, fly, and adjust (trim) a rubber-band powered model aircraft to make long
endurance flights inside a contained airspace. Documentation (including elements such as attributes of the model design, drawings, and an analysis of the trim modifications), an inspection of the
model and the required model flight box, and official times for two flights are aspects of the evaluation
WV does not hold this competition in
state. Contact the state advisor if you wish to compete in this event at nationals.
Forensic Science
Participants take a test of basic forensic science to qualify for the semifinal round of competition.
Semifinalists examine a mock crime scene and demonstrate their knowledge of forensic science through crime scene analysis, with the findings synthesized in a written report/analysis.
Future Technology Teacher
Participants research a developing technology, prepare a video showing an application of the technology
in the classroom, and create a lesson plan/activity that features the application and connects to the Standards for Technological and Engineering Literacy (STEL), as well as STEM initiatives and
integration. Semifinalists demonstrate the lesson plan and answer questions about their presentation.
Geospatial Technology
To address the issue presented in an annual theme, participants interpret geospatial data and develop a
digital portfolio containing maps, data, and pertinent documentation. Semifinalists defend their projections and visual infographic during a presentation/interview.
2024-25 Topic: Identity a disaster threat, natural or otherwise, that may impact your
community. Develop an infographic that communicates hazard zones, evacuation routes, and resource distribution.
Manufacturing Prototype
Participants design, fabricate, and use Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) to create a product that
addresses the annual theme. A documentation portfolio and the completed product prototype are submitted for evaluation. Semifinalists give a product “sales pitch” and demonstration.
2024-25 Theme: An item that can be used as picture frames for a home or office while also
serving another purpose
Music Production
Participants produce an original musical piece that reflects the annual theme on the TSA website under Themes & Problems. The quality of the musical piece and required documentation (including elements such as a plan of work, self-evaluation, and a list of hardware, software, and instruments used) determines advancement to the semifinal level of competition, during which semifinalist participants are interviewed.
2024-25 Theme: Create a musical piece that will be used as the background music for a role-playing game (RPG) video game. It will be played during the parts of the game when the player’s character is visiting the blacksmith.
On Demand Video
Once participants receive the challenge details (required criteria, such as props and a line of
dialogue) at the national TSA conference, they have 36 hours to produce a 60-second film that showcases video skills, tools, and communication processes. The quality of the completed video production
determines the finalists.
Photographic Technology
Participants produce a photographic portfolio - demonstrating expertise in photo and imaging technology
processes - to convey a message based on the annual theme. Semifinalists have 24 hours to complete a portfolio of photos (with required documentation) taken onsite at the national TSA conference.
Finalists are determined based on the quality of the semifinal portfolio, the portfolio presentation, and interview responses.
2024-25 Theme: Using five photographs, tell a story about your journey in TSA. The
type of photo (color, black and white, macro, still life, and student choice) should add to the impact of the story you are sharing.
Prepared Presentation
Participants deliver a three-to-five-minute oral presentation related to the current national TSA
conference theme. Both semifinalists and finalists are determined based on the quality of the presentation and the appropriate use and content of the accompanying required slide deck.
2024-25 Theme: Develop a presentation that highlights the field of digital music production,
including the timeline of its origin, development, fruition, and release of the technology on a global scale.
Promotional Design
Participants use computerized graphic communications layout and design skills to produce a promotional
resource packet. The resource must address the annual theme/problem and include at least four printed publication items and required documentation. Semifinalists demonstrate publishing competency in
an onsite technical design challenge.
2024-25 Topic: Branding materials for a fictitious restaurant; the four (4) Promotional
Folder items are student choice.
Robotics
Participants design, build, document, and test a robot assembled using open-sourced parts according to stated specifications and to meet the challenge of the yearly theme/problem.
Senior Solar Sprint
The Senior Solar Sprint (SSS) competition is managed by TSA. Students apply scientific understanding,
creativity, experimentation, and teamwork to design, build, and race a model solar vehicle that carries a payload; documentation of the process is required. Students must register via
an Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) portal to participate and begin the SSS journey.
Software Development
Participants use their knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, algorithm design, problem-solving
principles, effective communication, and collaboration to design, implement, test, document, and present a software development project of educational or social value. Both semifinalists and
finalists are determined based on the quality of the presentation and project.
2024-25 Topic: Develop a program that enhances the environment and/or agriculture to be more
sustainable and efficient.
STEM Mass Media
In response to an annual theme, participants use written and verbal communication skills to convey a news story in both a video broadcast (preliminary round) and a digital written format (semifinal round). Participants must demonstrate a strong understanding of journalism etiquette and the common practices of the field of mass media.
2024-25 Topic: Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are advanced technologies that enable direct communication between the brain and computers. Using electrodes placed on the scalp, BCIs detect brain signals that are then translated into commands for computers. These signals can control various applications, from typing messages to playing video games, solely through thought. BCIs have practical applications beyond entertainment; they assist individuals with disabilities by allowing them to operate prosthetic limbs or communicate when speech is impaired. BCIs represent a remarkable intersection of neuroscience and computer science, offering promising solutions for both medical and technological advancements.
Based on the following headline (link below), develop a news broadcast that includes an introduction of the headline, a summary of the information in the news story, and an explanation of potential future implications of the highlighted work.
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1039721
Structural Design and Engineering
Participants apply the principles of structural engineering to design and construct a structure that
complies with the annual challenge. An assessment of the required documentation and the destructive testing of the structure (to determine its design efficiency) determine both semifinalists and
finalists.
System Control Technology
Participants develop a solution to a problem (typically one from an industrial setting) presented onsite
at the conference. They analyze the problem, build a computer-controlled mechanical model, program the model, demonstrate the programming and mechanical features of the model-solution in an
interview, and provide instructions for evaluators to operate the model.
Technology Bowl
Participants demonstrate their knowledge of TSA and concepts addressed in technology content standards
by completing an objective test. Semifinalist teams participate in a question/response, head-to-head, team competition.
Technology Problem Solving
Participants use problem-solving skills to design and construct a finite solution to a challenge
provided onsite at the conference. Solutions are evaluated at the end of 90 minutes using measures appropriate to the challenge, such as elapsed time, horizontal or vertical distance, and/or
strength.
Transportation Modeling
Participants research, design, and produce a scale model of a vehicle that complies with the annual
design problem. A display for the model and a documentation portfolio – containing elements such as a description of the vehicle, photographs and commentary detailing the vehicle production, and
technical illustrations – are required. Semifinalists participate in an interview.
2024-25 Theme: Food trucks
Video Game Design
Participants design, build, and launch an E-rated online video game – with accompanying required
documentation - that addresses the annual theme. Semifinalists participate in an interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise they gained during the development of the game.
2024-25 Theme: Kid’s game, 2 to 4 players, playable on one (1) screen and one (1) keyboard
at a time
Virtual Reality Visualization (VR)
Participants use video and 3D computer graphics tools and design processes to create a
two-to-three-minute VR visualization (accompanied by supporting documentation) that addresses the annual theme. Semifinalists deliver a presentation about their visualization and participate in an
interview.
2024-25 Theme: Create a virtual reality (VR) simulation of a family vacation destination
that includes experiences and activities that appeal to both young children and teenagers.
Webmaster
Participants design, build, and launch a website that addresses the annual challenge. Semifinalists
participate in an interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise gained during the development of the website.
2024-25
Topic: A restaurant (dine-in and carry-out) that specializes in vegetarian food
Challenge: Design a website for a vegan/vegetarian restaurant. Showcase the restaurant’s approach (such as farm-to-table, preparation processes, and sustainability) to the food served in the restaurant.
Print 