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Short Story​

Description:

A brief examination of a subject of your choice expressing a personal viewpoint or interpretation. 


Overview:

Do you have a story to tell? This is your opportunity to write a short story that dives into a subject close to your heart. Whether fictional or nonfictional, your story should reflect your personal perspective or interpretation of an issue or topic that matters to you within 1500-3000 words. Let your imagination flow or share your real-world experiences—your voice and vision are what bring your story to life!

Notes for Judges ● This competition is interview based and requires advanced screening of the contestants' materials in order to adequately interview them on the day of the competition. Each contestant will only have an allocated time allotment of 10 minutes. ● You should not under any circumstances engage with the students before or after the competition until the Awards Ceremony has concluded. ● You must provide honest constructive feedback for each contestant that you are judging. ● Scoring Rubric: ○ 95-100 - Qualifies as a Gold Medalist ○ 90+Up - Qualifies as a Silver Medalist ○ 85+Up - Qualifies as a Bronze Medalist ■ Please take heed that the identifying word here is “Qualifies”. There can be multiple contestants that can qualify as gold medalist and if that’s the case the highest score will receive the gold, and silver and bronze will be allocated to the next two highest scores. ■ In the event the highest score is a 90 then there is no gold medalist and there’s only a possibility for a silver and bronze medalist as long as the remaining scores land within the 85+Up region.

Requirements:

 

1. Submission: 

    a. Submit one copy of your short story by March 10, 2027 deadline. Email to coraopolisnaacp@gmail.com

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

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2. Story Guidelines:

    a. Length: 1500 - 3000 words

    b. Format: Typed, double spaced, Calibri or Times New Roman

    c. Content:

            a. Single storyline

            b. No more than 3-4 characters

            c. Single point of view

            d. Short time frame

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3. Interview:

      Contestants will be interviewed by a panel of judges to discuss their work. 

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4. Contestant Introduction: State your introduction in full, per the Contestant Introduction Script, before your interview.
 

5. Statement of Integrity: Submit a completed Statement of Integrity Form with your application

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Required Submissions


• Bio (PDF) → First_Last_Bio
• Contestant Photo (PDF) → First_Last_CP
• Statement of Integrity (PDF) → First_Last_SOI
• Written Project (PDF) → First_Last_WP
 

When uploading your documents, you must name each file exactly as shown above in order for it to be properly uploaded and integrated into our automated system.
 

Example: John_Doe_WP (using your own first and last name, followed by the file label shown for your category).
 

Note: If files are not received in these formats, they are out of compliance and ineligible until rectified. If they are not corrected before the deadline, the contestant will no longer be able to compete at this year's iteration of the National Competition

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Contestants Will Be Judged by the Following Criteria:

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25 Points: General Merit

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  • Ideas - Originality  unique perspective, clear storyline, focused time frame

  • Organization and clarity - Consistent writing style, mood/tone and space

  • Wording - Effective use of language for expression, realism, and emphasis

  • Flavor - Strong author's voice, style and depth

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25 Points: Mechanics

 

  • Usage: Correct grammar and syntax

  • Punctuation/Capitalization/Spelling: Accurate use of punctuation, capitalization and spelling 

  • Story Elements: Well-developed plot, setting, characters, and point of view

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50 Points: Overall Effect

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  • Conciseness: Minimal background information and concise dialogue 

  • Ending: Satisfying conclusion that aligns with the plot and resonates with the reader

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100 Total Points

Tips for Short Story Contestants:

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• Choose a topic you're passionate about. This will make the writing process more enjoyable and help you create a more compelling story.


• Develop strong characters. Give your characters depth and complexity to make them more believable and relatable.
 

• Create a vivid setting. Use descriptive language to transport your reader to another world.


• Use strong language. Choose your words carefully to create the desired effect.


• Edit and revise. Don't be afraid to rewrite and edit your work until it's perfect.


• Proofread carefully. Check for errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.


• Practice your presentation skills. Be prepared to answer questions about your story.

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