This contest is open to students in grades 9-12.
Contestants write expository compositions.
Expository writing explains, proves, or explores a topic in a balanced way, allowing the argument and the evidence given to be the deciding factor in the paper. Descriptive or narrative passages may be used to illustrate or reinforce an idea or point, but they must be clearly subservient or incidental to the purpose of exposition. A director, who may be a contestant's coach, should administer the contest. A minimum of three qualified and impartial judges, who may not be contestants' coaches, should be appointed by the contest director or meet director. An assistant director may be appointed but is not required.