CSUN ExplanaJam Science Explanation Contest 2025

The CSUN Science Learning Colaboratory is excited to invite donors and sponsors to the annual Explanajam science contest! 

The ExplanaJam (bit.ly/csunexplanajam) offers K-12 students in Los Angeles the chance to showcase their scientific knowledge and win fantastic prizes by explaining scientific concepts. Students create and submit videos of their explanations to their teachers. Teachers then select and submit the top 3 videos per class for judging by university faculty and other experts.

Now in its 5th year, Explanajam continues to grow, with hundreds of classes expected to participate this May. This contest is a fun and engaging way for students to practice essential scientific skills, including the ability to explain natural phenomena. It's a fantastic way to add excitement to the end of the school year while allowing students to dive deeper into topics they are passionate about - like Selah's video on bioluminescent waves

Our current funding through the California Science Project is limited, so we are seeking additional sponsors to be able to increase the scale and number of the prizes (link to prizes). All of our judges generously volunteer their time, so every dollar donated will go directly toward expanding the prize pool. If you have an idea for a new prize category, or would like to contribute in another way, please contact us to see how we can collaborate. Some suggestions from our teachers include:

• Explaining the efficiency of electric cars
• Explaining how ocean currents and geography make the Los Angeles coastline unique
• Explaining how wildfire can get out of control in certain conditions

Thank you for your support! Please share ExplanaJam with teachers and schools and encourage them to participate so more students can learn, create, and win.