JOURNYS, the Journal of Youths in Science, publishes four main types of articles: original research, reviews, op-eds, and DIY pieces.
Original Research
An original research article presents the author’s own experimentation and findings. The paper must include the following sections (with subheadings or additional sections as needed): abstract, introduction, purpose, methods, results/conclusion, and discussion. The article should also include any supporting figures, graphs, pictures, etc. Background information and terminology necessary to understanding the experiment should be explained as well, but sources must be cited. Word count: 1000-1700
Review
A review is a balanced, informative analysis of a current issue in science that also incorporates the author’s insights. Reviews are classified into several categories, as listed below. Word count: 750-1700
- A research review presents new research, developments, or advances in the scientific community. It should be based on information from the experts and media but not merely summarize the research or combine multiple sources. A research review should also add a dimension of personal commentary, and it should discuss how the findings have broader significance within a field or in society. In addition, it should discuss material in a manner that is accessible and understandable to a high school student, providing detailed explanation of relevant principles, mechanisms, vocabulary, etc. as necessary.
- A topic review educates readers about a scientific concept or issue. Rather than providing only surface-level information about the subject, it should provide in-depth discussion of the material and detailed explanation of relevant mechanisms, principles, vocabulary, experiments, etc. At the same time, a topic review should also be written in a manner that is accessible and understandable to a high school student.
- A media review features discussion of books, films, or exhibitions of scientific nature. It should discuss the main points posed by the work, supplemented by key quotations and references. In addition, a media review should also include the author’s own insightful analyses, evaluation of these ideas, and his or her response to the work.
- A policy review highlights scientific issues that have potential or realized implications in politics, the economy, etc. It should provide comprehensive views of both sides of the issue and present them in a wholly unbiased manner. Additionally, a policy review should include detailed explanation of all scientific and political background necessary for the reader to comprehend the issue.
- An experience review relates the author’s own experience participating in a science fair, competition, or internship, or other program. While part of the article may be dedicated to the research or preparation done prior to the experience, the author should principally focus on details about the event itself.
Op-Ed
An op-ed is a persuasive article or a statement of opinion. In an op-ed article, the author makes one or more claims and supports them well with evidence, arguments, quotations, etc. Depending on the topic discussed, an op-ed may require clear explanation of background information, principles, terminology, etc. Word count: 750-1500
DIY Piece
A DIY piece introduces and provides instruction for a project or procedure of interest to readers. The project can serve a variety of purposes, such as orienting the reader to a specific field or enhancing the reader’s understanding of a concept. For example, an author involved in robotics could teach readers how to create a simple robotic contraption. A DIY piece should contain very clear, thorough instructions accompanied by diagrams or pictures if necessary. Outside sources may be used for inspiration in creating projects so long as they are cited. Word count: 500-1000
