The 2025 R. Joel Senter Sr. Memorial Essay Contest
7th - 9th Grade Form

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DIRECTIONS

Students are encouraged to choose from “The Adventure of the Speckled Band,” “The Adventure of the Red-Headed League,” and “The Adventure of the Abbey Grange.” 

​Choose ONE story and indicate which question you are answering. 

​Write a 500-700 word essay to answer one of the following questions.

NOTE:  Previous 1st Place winners in this Category are not eligible to compete again.

Please see the Rules tab for complete contest rules.

ESSAY QUESTIONS

1. Sherlock Holmes uses his powers of deduction to solve the cases in these stories. How do you use similar powers of deduction in your life to be successful? Think of how you use observations to draw conclusions in school, at home, or with your hobbies (i.e. sports, clubs, video games, etc.). Write an essay explaining how thinking like Sherlock Holmes makes you more successful in your life.
2. Write an essay comparing and contrasting Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. Based on these stories, how are the two similar? How are they different?
3. One theme that is common in Sherlock Holmes stories is that of good triumphing over evil. Explain how the theme of good triumphing over evil is illustrated in these Sherlock Holmes stories.