Writing
Class Descriptions: Writing
Entries in Writing classes 1-3 must include a single piece as submitted online or in print format (PDF copy). Include the name and location of the publication/medium and the date published.
Entries in Writing class 4 must include a copy of the final script as written, as well as the final audio or video product. Technical elements that usually are written into a script (such as natural sound or visual images) will also be considered. Entries will not be judged on the point of view of the writer or speaker but rather on the merit of its written presentation. Entries should include information on who the speech was written for and where it was presented.
Entries in Writing class 5 must include the URL of the webpage.
Entries in Writing class 6 must include the URL to the original social media post.
Entries in class 7 should link to the final product (online or PDF) and include relevant information including where it was published or distributed.
For all classes, include other pertinent supporting information in the section of the entry. Judging will emphasize writing quality, not the technical quality of the surrounding publication or finished electronic product. Content, organization, writing style and proper format will be considered. Graphic design and photography will not be considered.
Judging criteria 1-3, 5-7: Writing Content (substance) 25%, Writing quality (coherence) 25%, Writing creativity (humanity) 25%, Writing style 25%
Judging criteria 4: Writing Content (substance) 25%, Writing quality (coherence) 25%, Writing creativity (humanity) 25%, Writing style 25%
Writing 1 | Writing for newspapers. Submit one piece (not a news release) that resulted in a published article in a daily or weekly newspaper (print or newspapers that only publish online are acceptable).
Writing 2 | Writing for magazines. Submit one article that was published in a print or online magazine. Writing for a newspaper supplement that uses a magazine format is also acceptable, except those that fit into writing class 3.
Writing 3 | Writing within a specialized publication. Submit one piece of writing for an internal or external publication (which could include, but is not limited to, newsletters, annual reports, books, guide sheets, instruction booklets, fact sheets, and other publications), except those that fit into writing classes 1, 2, 4 & 7.
Writing 4 | Script and speech writing for audio or visual media. Submit one script for television, videos, webinars, podcasts, or slide presentations or one script written for a speaker to deliver in person or via videoconferencing, or via taped message. Include a link or copy of the final script and product.
Writing 5 | Writing for the web. Submit one article originally published online, including the URL. The writing must be original content intended for online readership and not eligible for writing classes 1-4. Entries will not be considered if they are simply a PDF page or news release posted to the web. News releases should be entered in Media Relations Class 2 - News Release.
Writing 6 | Writing for social media. Submit one social media post (social media text and any related graphics), including the originally posted social media URL. Entries will be judged on the ability of the written content to enhance the message being conveyed. Related graphics/photos should be sent to provide a sense for the entire post but will not be judged as part of this category. Judging will evaluate how the post verbiage integrates with the graphics used, usefulness of writing, conciseness, and the ability of audiences to understand the writing. Submissions should include the social media platform the writing was used on.
Writing 7 | Writing for a diverse audience. Submit in this class if your writing shows a consideration for audiences with diverse backgrounds or is inclusive of people from diverse backgrounds.