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THEMES AND PROBLEMS

MIDDLE SCHOOL

When a decision is made by a member to compete in an event, it is imperative that the member thoroughly read and understand the rules, regulations, procedures, and evaluation criteria for the chosen event(s). National TSA is responsible for addressing mistakes or discrepancies in the competitive event guides and accomplishes this through competition updates on the TSA website. National TSA is not responsible for interpreting, advising, or suggesting ways that a member might develop a viable response or solution to a competitive event challenge. 

 

  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Digital Photography
  • Dragster
  • Drone Challenge (UAV)
  • Forensic Technology
  • Mass Production
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medical Technology

Data Science and Analytics

Data Set – Yellowstone_Wildlife.csv

Topic: Explore how wildlife populations and their migration behaviors have shifted in Yellowstone National Park over the last 50 years. Look at the key ecological, environmental, and human characteristics provided in the dataset. Based on your analysis, create a set of data-driven criteria that can help Yellowstone National Park with their planning for wildlife conservation. Support your predictive criteria with clear evidence from the data.

Digital Photography

Theme: Create a digital photo series consisting of seven color photographs. Each photo should emphasize one of the colors in the ROY G. BIV sequence:

  1. Red
  2. Orange
  3. Yellow
  4. Green
  5. Blue
  6. Indigo
  7. Violet

The seven photos must all be connected by a single theme, story, location, subject, or idea. While each image should prominently feature its assigned color, the entire collection should feel like one cohesive series rather than seven unrelated photographs.

Dragster

No theme for 2027, see official rules for specifications

Drone Challenge (UAV)

Forensic Technology

Skills

  1. Forensic Biology-Genetics
  2. Toxicology
  3. Forensic Psychology

Mass Production

Theme: Automata Box

Mechanical Engineering

Medical Technology

Theme: Pulmonological Conditions & Modern Technologies to Address them: teams will select a respiratory-related condition and outline it in the display. Then, teams will select a modern medical technology that will be highlighted by the informational pamphlet and multimedia video.

HIGH SCHOOL

 

  • Video Game Design
  • Virtual Reality Simulation (VR)
  • Vlogging
  • Webmaster

Video Game Design

Theme: Create a deep space-themed RPG where the primary method of progression is puzzle-solving rather than combat.

Challenge: Your game must include core RPG elements (such as character stats, a leveling system, or branching dialogue), but you may not include traditional combat. Instead, players must use their character's skills and stats to solve environmental, logical, or social puzzles to survive the dangers of deep space.

Virtual Reality Simulation (VR)

Theme: High-speed first aid immersive simulation

Challenge: You are tasked with developing a virtual reality experience that evaluates a user's ability to perform life-saving interventions under pressure, such as addressing anaphylaxis, obstructed airways, or traumatic hemorrhaging. The simulation must feature a comprehensive Training Mode that provides instructional support and immediate guidance in a controlled setting. Additionally, your project must include a rigorous Certification Mode that simulates a realistic, time-sensitive emergency with no assistance. Your final product must produce a performance analytics dashboard summarizing the user's technical proficiency and response efficiency.

Vlogging

Theme: The Butterfly Effect

Small actions can create extraordinary change.

Create a three-episode vlog series, not to exceed six minutes total, that explores how one decision, act of kindness, innovation, challenge, or moment can lead to a chain of events that produces a meaningful impact. Your vlog should demonstrate how seemingly small actions can inspire growth, influence others, and create lasting change.

Your series should follow a connected storyline across all three episodes, capturing authentic experiences, thoughtful reflection, and engaging storytelling. Through creative videography, editing, and presentation, illustrate how one small action can spark a ripple effect that extends far beyond its original moment.

Webmaster

Theme: Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning portal

Challenge: You have been tasked with designing and developing an interactive Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning portal aimed at high school students (grades 9–12). The purpose of this site is to demystify AI by providing a foundational understanding of the technology, showcasing practical tools, and teaching techniques to leverage AI effectively and ethically in an academic setting.

Your website must include the following:

  • Educational  Content Modules: At least three distinct learning sections covering fundamental AI concepts, practical AI tools/techniques, and ethical AI usage
  • Gamification & Progress Tracking: An interactive, gamified user interface (e.g., digital badges, experience points, or a progress dashboard) designed to engage students and visually track their completion of the learning modules.