TIPS FOR WRITTEN ENTRIES:

1. Meet with all students who plan to enter any of the written events.
2. Be sure that you thoroughly go over all of the guidelines for the events. Give each student a copy of the guidelines, which coincide with the event they have chosen. They will be penalized, if they do not stay within the length guidelines.
3. Encourage your "writers" to write about things that interest them, or things about which they know. The best writing comes directly from the heart.
4. Give a deadline for the first rough draft. Point out to the students that good writing is a process. It doesn't usually happen on the first draft, but requires revisions and work.
5. Use a "fine-toothed comb" method on your first proofreading. Be kind in your guidance, but make sure that the "mechanics" of good writing are followed. (Check spelling, grammar, and punctuation.)
6. Make sure that the piece has unity and clarity. The purpose of writing is to communicate. Does their work have a clear message? Do they stick to this central theme?
7. Go down the checklist of devices being scored in the type of written work entered. Has the student utilized these devices to enhance their writing? Is their work interesting and "fresh?" Encourage creativity!
8. Neatness counts! Make sure that the final draft is neat and clean. It should be pleasant to the eye.
9. Prepare three copies of the entry and place each copy in a clear plastic folder.
10. Include a signed Creative Composition Affidavit Form and a Judge's Form with each copy of the entry.

Writers are those who love to write! Encourage your students to write daily. You are more likely to create something wonderful, if your creative juices are flowing on a regular basis. Write on!