Literature Guide for Students

What is the Literature Category?

In the Literature category, you become an author! You'll write an original story, poem, or other piece of writing that connects to this year's Reflections theme, "I Belong."

What Can I Write?

You can choose any of these writing styles:

• Story (fiction or based on real life)
• Poem
• Play or script
• Personal essay (writing about your own thoughts and experiences)

Important: Submit just ONE piece of writing (not a collection of poems or multiple stories).

What Makes a Great Entry?

Judges will look for:

✨ Connection to the theme - How does the writing relate to this year's theme?

✨ Creativity and originality - Is this your own unique idea?

✨ Artistic vision - How well do you express your ideas through writing?

You can write in your own style - whether that's detailed and formal or simple and heartfelt. What matters most is how you use your words to show the theme!

Can I Get Help?

Yes, in these ways:

• Typing help: Someone else can type your writing, but please attach the original handwritten version
• Dictation: If needed, you can say your words out loud and someone can write them down exactly as spoken
• Illustrations: You can draw pictures to go with your writing (though only the writing itself is judged)
• Translation: If you speak another language, you can write in that language, but you must include an English translation

Remember: The words must be your own ideas - helpers should write down exactly what you say or create!

Submission Rules Made Simple

📝 Length: Up to 2,000 words maximum

📄 Format:

• Use regular 8.5" x 11" paper
• Write or print on one side only
• Number each page
• Submit as a PDF file

✏️ Student information: Write your name and details on the BACK of the pages

🆕 Must be new: Create something new for this year's theme (not something written before)

⚠️ Must be original: Your own words and ideas only - copying from books, websites, or other sources is not allowed

How Do I Submit My writing?

Step 1: Create your writing piece.
Step 2: Make sure it follows all the rules above.
Step 3: Fill out the student entry form in English or Spanish 
Step 4: Turn in your video and form by October 24, 2025

Where to submit: Email perrineaotapta@gmail.com

Bottom line: Let your imagination shine through your own words. Whether you write a silly poem, an adventure story, or share a personal experience, we encourage you to have fun expressing the theme in your unique voice!

Remember!

🌟 Every entry is celebrated!
🌟 There's no "wrong" way to show how you belong
🌟 Your creativity is what makes it special
🌟 Have FUN creating!

Questions? Ask David Villeta at perrineaotapta@gmail.com