POETRY—PERFORMANCE

An original poem or prose, written by the contestant, performed as a monologue or

exchange involving extemporization.

REQUIREMENTS:

1. Submit one notarized copy of the original poem.

2. The top of each page must include the contestant’s name, page number and unit name

and number.

3. Poems should be original, and typed, using 12- p o i n t C a l i b r i , o r T i m e s f o n t .

Do not include other fancy typefaces or graphics. Poems should retain original form

that they were created in and do not have to be double-spaced. Individual poems may

be free verse or rhymed metrical poetry containing stanzas. Poems should not exceed

3 pages.

4. The contestants must perform their work before a panel of judges. The performance

must not exceed three (3) minutes. (Contestants not adhering to the maximum time

requirements are subject to point deduction and/or disqualification.)

Contestants will be judged by the following criteria:

• Emotional/Physical Presence (20)- Is the poet emotionally connected to the topic they

are presenting? Is the poet demonstrating eye contact, body language and poise?

• Original Thought (20) - Has the poet tackled an interesting subject or created

something new with their work, or are they simply parroting belief systems or ideas

that they have heard from someone else.

• Voice and Articulation (20) – Does the poet exhibit appropriate volume, pace, rhythm,

intonation and proper pronunciation?

• Structure or Form, and Overall Presentation (20) - How is the poem constructed? Are

there appropriate line and stanza breaks? Does the poem have a strong title? Does the

poem contain appropriate grammar and punctuation?

• Evidence of Understanding/Accuracy (20) – Does the poet comprehend the material

they’re presenting and makes the audience understand? Does the poet miss written

words or mispronounce words during their recitation?