REQUIREMENTS:

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1. Submission: Submit one notarized copy of your original poem or prose. Deadline: March 31

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    a. Formatting:

        i Each page must include your name, page number, and unit name and number (Coraopolis NAACP #26AB-B).

       ii Your work should be original, typed in 12 point Calibri or Times New Roman font. 

      iii Retain the original form of your piece (free verse, rhymed metrical poetry, etc.)

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    b. Performance: 

        i Perform your work before a panel of judges.

       ii Your performance must not exceed 3 minutes. Exceeding this limit may result in point deductions or disqualification.

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2. Do not exceed 3 pages. 

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​Contestants will be judged  by the following criteria:

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Emotional/Physical Presence (20)

       Is the poet emotionally connected to the topic they are presenting?

       Is the poet demonstrating eye contact, body language and poise?

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Original Thought (20)

       Has the poet tackled an interesting subject or created something  new with their work, or are they simply parroting belief systems or ideas that they have heard from someone else.

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Voice and Articulation (20)

      Does the poet exhibit appropriate volume, pace, rhythm, intonation and proper pronunciation?

 

Structure or Form, and Overall Presentation (20)

     How is the poem constructed?

     Are there appropriate line and stanza breaks?

     Does the poem have a strong title?

     Does the poem contain appropriate grammar and punctuation?

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Evidence of Understanding/Accuracy (20)

    Does the poet comprehend the material they're presenting and makes the audience understand?

    Does the poet miss written words or mispronounce words during their recitation?​​