1. High School Competitions

Participants take a written test of basic forensic science to qualify as semifinalists. Semifinalist teams will examine a mock crime scene and demonstrate their knowledge of forensic science and crime scene analysis. Participants will be expected use proper techniques to collect evidence and perform a detailed written analysis of the crime scene.

Participants create a screencast webinar that teachers can reference to learn a new technology that can be used in a lesson. Semifinalists demonstrate mastery of the technological app in a mock lesson and presentation. 

Participants interpret geospatial data in multiple formats and formulate projections about the area of interest In response to an annual theme. Participants develop a digital portfolio containing maps, data, and pertinent documentation. Preliminary round participants also summarize their findings in a visual infographic map. Semifinalists defend their visual infographic projections in a digital presentation.

For the virtual 2021 National TSA Conference, participants prepare for the challenging CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ certification exam. The practice exam covers essential IT skills and knowledge needed to complete tasks commonly performed by all levels of IT professionals. 

Participants produce an original musical piece that is designed to be played during the National TSA Conference opening or closing general sessions.

Participants write, shoot, and edit a 60–second video onsite during the conference.

Participants demonstrate understanding of and expertise in using photographic and imaging technology processes to convey a message based on a theme. Preliminary participants submit a photographic portfolio to qualify for semifinalists. Semifinalists demonstrate expertise in photographic technology by producing two (2) portfolios within a limited, specified amount of time. 

Participants deliver an oral presentation, using a digital slide deck, on a topic provided onsite.

Participants use computerized graphic communications layout and design skills in the production of a promotional resource for TSA.

Participants use either 2D or 3D computer graphics tools and design processes to communicate, inform, analyze, and/or illustrate a STEM topic, idea, subject, or concept.

Participants use knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, algorithm design, problem-solving principles, effective communication, and collaborative teamwork to design, implement, test, and document a software development project of educational or social value.

Participants work as a team to build a designated structure that is posted on the TSA website. Teams apply the principles of structural design and engineering through research, design, construction, destructive testing, and assessment to determine the design efficiency of the structure.

Participants work onsite to develop a computer-controlled model-solution to a problem, typically one from an industrial setting. Teams analyze the problem, build a computer-controlled mechanical model, program the model, explain the program and mechanical features of the model-solution, and write instructions for evaluators to operate the device.

Participants demonstrate their knowledge of TSA and concepts addressed in the technology content standards by completing a written, objective test. Semifinalist teams participate in question/response, head-to-head team competition.

Participants use their skills in problem solving to develop a finite solution to a problem provided onsite.

Participant research, design, and produce a scale model of a vehicle that fits the annual design problem.

Participants collaborate on a robotics project that explores the relationship among STEM fields, culminating in a head-to-head game to test their robot's efficiency and productivity. Learn more.

Participants develop a game that reflects the theme for the year. The game must have high artistic, educational, and social value and be interesting, exciting, visually appealing, and intellectually challenging.

Participants design, build, and launch a website that features the school’s career and technology/engineering program, TSA chapter, and the chapter’s ability to research and present a given topic pertaining to technology. Semifinalists participate in an onsite interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise gained during the development of the website—with an emphasis on web design methods and practices, as well as their research for the annual design topic.