Category 3: Writing and Oratory

EXTEMPORANEOUS Essay

Competitors are allotted 60 minutes to compose a handwritten essay on a randomly selected topic related to the theme. Out of three randomly selected topics presented at the time of competition, students must choose one topic for their essay. The topics will be relevant to the annual theme. No more than 2 students per team can participate.

EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING

The art of extemporaneous speaking is not for the faint-hearted. Delivering a coherent, engaging, and moving speech, is easy enough, right? Now try doing that on the spot with only 15 minutes of preparation! Out of three randomly selected topics presented at the time of competition, students must choose one topic for their speech. The topics will be relevant to the annual theme. A limit of 2 students can participate per team.

ORIGINAL ORATORY

Competitors present a memorized original oration within a seven (7) minute period. The oration must relate back to the theme, but also be applicable to a general audience.The Orator must provide 3 COPIES of his/her script to be turned in during the competition orientation. A limit of 2 students per team may participate.

Prompts/Topics can be found here.

POETRY

Competitors must submit an original piece of poetry never before published within a 40 line limit. The piece must clearly relate back to the theme, but also be applicable to a general audience. A limit of 2 participants per team may compete.

PREPARED ESSAY

Have you been inspired by this year’s MIST theme? The prepared essay competition is perfect if you’re looking for an outlet. This is your chance to be creative and persuade us on the significance of your chosen topic. Share the passion! The written essay shall be a minimum of 1,500 words and a maximum of 2,000 words and must be printed with a cover page on standard 8.5×11 paper. No more than 2 participants per team may compete in this competition.

Prompts/Topics can be found here.

SHORT FICTION

Competitors are to submit an original work of fiction no longer than 10 pages that relates to the theme and can also be applied to a competitor-defined target audience. Illustrations are permitted for younger intended audiences. Submissions must be submitted two weeks prior to MIST Weekend. Up to 2 participants from each team may compete.

SPOKEN WORD/SLAM POETRY

If you’re more of the performer type of a poet, then spoken word is for you! Here’s your chance to convey your passion and originality, all while inspiring those around you in one of our most popular competitions. The competitor must provide 3 COPIES of his/her piece to be turned in during the competition orientation and the piece may not be longer than six minutes. A limit of 2 participants per team may participate.