2021 Writing Contest Judging Criteria

For all categories,  the judges are asked to write comments on winning submissions,. This is optional on any other entries, but the judging form will be returned to the submitter.

HIGH SIERRA WRITERS’ 2021 WRITING CONTEST: FLASH FICTION

Please rate the author on each item on a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “needs a lot of work”, 5 being average, and 10 being outstanding. Add up the points for a total rating. In the case of a tie, you may be asked to determine which story is more compelling.

____    Originality: The piece shows a freshness of imagination, creativity, and individuality.

____    Plot Structure: The piece is a complete story with beginning, middle, and a satisfying conclusion.

____    Characterization: Characters are vivid and compelling.

____     Quality of Writing: Organization is logical and effective. Voice is individual and appropriate. Sentence fluency is smooth and expressive.

____    TOTAL POINTS


HIGH SIERRA WRITERS’ 2021 WRITING CONTEST: SHORT STORY

Please rate the author on each item on a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “needs a lot of work”, 5 being average, and 10 being outstanding. Add up the points for a total rating.  In the case of a tie, you may be asked to determine which story is more compelling.

____    Originality: The piece shows a freshness of imagination, creativity, and individuality.

____    Plot Structure: Enough information is provided to understand the story. Conflict emerges early and builds toward resolution. The sequence of events, dialog, and emotional movements are well crafted. Situations needing resolution are closed. Subtle undercurrents (if any) emerge during resolution.

____    Character Development and Dialog: The reader can relate to the characters; they are able to hold the reader’s attention. Actions and interactions are consistent and well-motivated. Dialog shows the characters to the readers for who they really are.

____     Quality of Writing: Organization is logical and effective. Voice is individual and appropriate. Sentence fluency is smooth and expressive.

____    TOTAL POINTS


HIGH SIERRA WRITERS’ 2021 WRITING CONTEST: CHILDREN’S STORY

Please rate the author on each item on a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being “needs a lot of work”, 5 being average, and 10 being outstanding. Add up the points for a total rating.  In the case of a tie, you may be asked to determine which story is more compelling.

____    Age Appropriate: Does this story seem appropriate for a 6 to 10 year-old child?

____   Originality: The piece shows a freshness of imagination, creativity, and individuality.

____    Plot Structure: Enough information is provided for a child to understand the story. Conflict emerges early and builds. The sequence of events, dialog, and emotional movements are well crafted.

____    Character Development and Dialog: The reader can relate to the characters; they are able to hold the reader’s attention. Actions and interactions are consistent and well-motivated. Dialog shows the characters to the readers for who they really are.

____     Quality of Writing: Organization is logical and effective. Voice is individual and appropriate. Word choice is specific and memorable. Sentence fluency is smooth and expressive.

____    TOTAL POINTS