Original Essay
What is Original Essay?
A brief examination of a subject in evaluative or analytical prose usually expressing a personal view or interpretation of a topic or issue.
Requirements
1. The original essay written only by the contestant should be submitted on or before the specified deadline. The top of each page must include the contestant’s name, page number.
2. The essay must be typed and double-spaced; not to exceed 6,000 words.
3. The contestant must be prepared to answer questions by the judges.
4. Contestants must submit three (3) copies of the essay.
General Merit 25
· Ideas – advances (or considers) existing knowledge while offering a fresh or novel analysis.
· Organization, clarity, and flow
· Wording— effective use of language, claims, and argumentation
· Flavor – (author’s) voice/perspective, (emotive?) style, depth, creativity
Mechanics 25
· Proper usage
· Punctuation/Capitalization
· Spelling
Overal Effect 50
· Convincing and compelling
· Resonance (motivation, inspiration, provocation, etc.)
· Topic/issue significance
· Educational value (teaches readers something new)
