JCMS student wins EGC, STC contest

TILLER GAY

Seventh and eighth grade students in the language arts classes at Jenkins County Middle School recently participated in the "Celebration of Education" essay contest sponsored by East Georgia College and Swainsboro Technical College. The theme for the essay this year was "So, Why Am I Studying This? ... Which school subjects will best prepare me for my future, and why?" Middle school students were to write essays of a 400-word maximum. The judging was based on originality, development, grammar, and style.

Eighth grader Tiller Gay won second place and a $100 savings bond with his essay, which follows.

SO, WHY AM I STUDYING THIS?

By Tiller Gay

Why am I studying this? That is a question that many students ask. Most students don't really know why they're being taught what their teacher is teaching them. They just think that they just have to know the subjects like Reading, Language, Math, Science, and Social Studies. That's true, but not entirely true. We are being taught these things so we won't be completely lost when we get out in the world, and that is why Math, Science, and Reading are the most helpful for the preparation of our future.

We use math every day whether we like it or not. From counting how many pieces of bread we put in a toaster to counting the amount of money to give to a clerk, we are using math. Also, if you're building something, you'll have to know about the lengths of wood you would be using. Also, if you had to do some plumbing, you'll have to know the angles that you'll need to buy. That is also a reason why math is important.

We're going to need to know about the things that go on with science when we are out in the world. For example, if you are a welder, you'll have to know about the physical change that goes on with the metal. Also, if an electrical cord were to get cut, you would have to know which wires conduct the most and then twist them together. Also, if you're a chef you'll need to know about the chemical and physical changes that are done to food. That is why science is important.

One thing we'll use more than anything is reading. If you want a job period, you have to know how to read. If you want to be a librarian, you have to know how to read the directory to know where the books are. If you want a driver's license you'll have to know how to read the traffic signs. The main point is, if you can't read, you won't go far.

In conclusion, to do well in Math, Science and Reading is very important in life. Each of these subjects will take us far. They bring light on any task that we may come upon in the future. That is why I think that those are the subjects that'll guide us on the journey that life sets out for us.