Story-Writing Rules and Judging Guidelines

Story-Writing Rules & Judging Guidelines

Download the Story Writing Rules and Guidelines for 2012 (PDF)

1.0 What is Story-Writing?

1.1 Write an original Story in 500 words or less. Upload your story to the Wakakirri website.

2.0 What stories can you tell?

2.2   Schools can tell any original story they wish. You can find information about story structure in the Resources section of the website.
2.3   Wakakirri requires schools to gain permission and take special consideration when interpreting Indigenous stories or portraying Indigenous individuals or images
2.4   Each year Wakakirri has a different signature item. Schools are encouraged to incorporate this item into their Wakakirri entry in a creative way. PLEASE NOTE: this is not compulsory and you will not be judged down if you do not incorporate the signature item, having said that, it is always fun for the audience to spot it! There is an award for the most creative use. The 2012 signature item is TWELVE.

3.0 Why are stories important?

3.1 Stories are a great way for students to learn about themselves and others. Stories have wide reach and they can convey important messages. Most importantly a good story stays with you for life.

4.0 Who will read our stories?

4.1 Wakakirri helps schools share their story nationally. Every school has the opportunity to exhibit their story on the Wakakirri website, where it can be read by the thousands of participating students across the country.

5.0 A Sustainable Approach

5.1 Wakakirri proudly promotes sustainability and has done so since its inception in 1992. Participating schools are asked to consider the environment in all aspects of their involvement, which includes writing on recycled or scrap paper and using both sides of the page.

6.0 Important Story-Writing Dates

6.1 Register your interest ASAP to receive updates and entry information
6.2 Stories must be uploaded and paperwork received by Friday the 3rd of August, 2012.

7.0 General Rules

7.1   Four entries per school. Many schools run Wakakirri Story-Writing competitions within the school and then send us the 4 entries that are voted the best.
7.2   There are two age groups you can enter: 6-9 years and 10+ We will only accept 4 schools MAX from each school NOT 4 entries per age category.
7.3   Entries must tell an original story.
7.4   Entries must be the sole work of students.
7.5   Maximum length for each Story-Writing work is 500 words. Stories over this word limit will not be accepted for judging.
7.6   Stories must be appropriate to the age group including language and themes.
7.7   Works must be uploaded onto the website to be adjudicated. We must also receive (via post, fax or email) your Confirmation Form.

Judging Overview

A panel of judges will be selected to assess the Story-Writing entries according to the judging criteria. Wakakirri Judges are sourced from the public and private education sectors as well as the publishing industry reflecting a balance in skills and areas of expertise. Short listed entries will be sent to our National Judges (previously Andy Griffiths & Jackie French) who will help decide national winners.
Story-Writing works will be judged after entries close and National Winners will be selected and announced in November. A list of short listed schools will be announced in September.

• Every entry will receive a Participation Award and Assessment Certificate
• Overall national winners are selected in two age categories (9 and under – 10 and over)
• All stories can be displayed on the www.wakakirri.com website

Prizes

1st 2nd, 3rd Place National Winners. (per age group)
1st place receives $500 (per age group)
2nd and 3rd place receive book prizes from Allen & Unwin. (per age group)