Requirements:

 

1. Submit one (1) copy of the original poem to the Coraopolis NAACP by the MARCH 24, 2025 deadline.

     Email address: coraopolisnaacp@gmail.com or mail to Coraopolis NAACP P. O. Box 844 Coraopolis, PA. 15108

      

2. The top of each page must include the contestant’s name, page number and unit name and number (Coraopolis NAACP #26AB-B).

 

3. The Short Story must be typed, double-spaced and between 1500 and 3000 words. 

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4. The Short Story should have a single-story line without subplots. 

• No more than three or four characters

• A single viewpoint

• A short time scale  

     

5. The contestant must be prepared to answer questions by the judges.

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6. Contestant may read one excerpt from their work. 

 

Contestants Will Be Judged by the Following Criteria:

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• General Merit (25 pts)

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• Ideas - originality or a unique perspective (on an existing idea), single storyline, no subplots, short time frame

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

• Wording - strategic and intentional use of language (e.g., for expression, realism, authenticity, emphasis, cultural or social commentary)

• Flavor - (author's) voice/perspective, style, depth/provocation, creativity. 

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• Mechanics (25 pts)

 

• Proper Usage;

• Punctuation/Capitalization/Spelling;

• Short story five elements: plot, setting, characters (3-4 max), effective implementation of POV (e.g., first person, third person, etc.)

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• Overall Effect (50 pts)

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              Minimum background, concise dialogue, no lengthy preamble,

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                  Natural ending achieving any (or all) of the following elements:

                       Plot alignment, authenticity, consistency, emotional resonance, reader satisfaction, surprise within expectations.