2026 QUESTION 1.

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In recent years, significant innovations have emerged across science, technology, mathematics, and engineering, addressing complex challenges in areas such as health, sustainability, infrastructure, and data analysis. Choose one recent STEM invention or innovation that has been developed or widely applied in recent years.

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1. Explain what the invention or innovation is and how it works, including the key scientific, technological, mathematical, or engineering principles behind it.

2. Discuss the real-world problem it addresses, explaining why this issue is significant at a local or global level.

3. Analyze its impact, considering potential or existing social, environmental, or ethical implications, as well as factors such as scalability, accessibility, or long-term consequences.​​

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​(600 words)

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In the 21st century, scientific and technological developments increasingly shape social institutions, cultural norms, political systems, and economic structures. Choose one major scientific or technological development that has emerged or become widely influential in recent years.

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1. Explain what this development is and describe the historical, cultural, political, or economic context in which it emerged.

2. Examine how it has influenced societal values, political decision-making, or economic systems, explaining why these changes are significant at a local or global level.

3. Analyze its broader implications, considering issues such as power dynamics, inequality, governance, cultural transformation, or ethical responsibility.

4. Evaluate whether innovation in this area should be guided primarily by democratic oversight, moral philosophy, or social responsibility rather than by scientific possibility or market forces alone.

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​(600 words)​

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Additional Guidelines

• All articles must fall within one of the listed categories above.

• Essays should be analytical, well-structured, and supported by accurate reasoning or evidence where appropriate.