With prizes of money or chances of being publicized, teachers can motivate students to write essays or poems. Also, they can help give students a leg up on the competition.
Avoid Writing Contest Scams
If a contest asks for an entrance fee or any type of money up front, it is most likely a scam. There are many contests that are free to enter. The prize money can range from $10 to hundreds. Or, some websites will publish top submissions.
If anything seems questionable about the contest or website, teachers can direct students to complete research about the company. If the contest is online, students can go to the home page and contact the organizers of the contest.
One of the best things that teachers can do is to give students a list of free places to get published and free contests to enter. Local contests will offer students a better chance of winning.
Know Audience Before Writing
Before students begin writing anything, they need to learn who will be choosing the winners. The judges could be teachers, business leaders, professional writers, veterans, etc. When students write, they need to keep the audience as a focus.
Most judges want an error free and well organized essay that sticks to the prompt or topic and is interesting or unique. It usually helps if the essay is neatly typed.
Follow Writing Process for Essay Contests
If teachers are asking a whole class to write an essay for a contest, they can help students by directing them to follow the writing process. Teachers can begin by reading the prompt in class and brainstorming ideas with the entire class.
Next, students can brainstorm some basic thesis statements for the essay prompt. Teachers can tell students that if the contest judges receive large stacks of essays, they will want an introduction that "grabs" them and that includes an interesting or unique thesis statement.
If there is not a word count requirement, teachers should encourage students to write a three to five paragraph essay. The main point is that the essay should include an introductory paragraph, a body that give specific details that support the thesis statement and a conclusion that wraps up the essay and leaves the reader with something to ponder.
Entering Poetry Contests
Winning poetry contests is a bit dicey, as assessing poetry is always somewhat subjective. It is important to read the rules of the contest carefully and look at previous winning entries. Middle school students should try to be original and sincere, use a few well placed poetry techniques, and follow any contest directions. It may help if students write poetry that has "rules," such as haikus, limericks, ballads, sonnets, concrete poems, etc.
If students need motivation to write, money talks. Lure them into writing an essay with a cash prize. The process is just as important as the end product. Students will learn valuable writing skills and possibly earn enough to buy a prized item.
Kellie Hayden - She is a 19 year veteran teacher with a master's degree in education and NBCT, 2000. Kellie teaches 8th grade language arts, TAG and ...
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