29th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Writing Contest “Maintain Faith In The Future”
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a man committed to peace, justice, and equality. In his efforts for civil rights, he emphasized the importance of determination to achieve freedom and human dignity. His driving forces were love, the importance of family, and self-respect.
In 1981, Milwaukee educators and involved citizens began the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Writing contest to celebrate and remember Dr. King’s legacy. The contest continues today through their efforts.
This year’s contest theme is “Maintain Faith in the Future.” The writers may relate this theme to themselves or others in their family, school, neighborhood, or the world.
Eligibility/Categories
The writing contest is open to students in grades K-12 who live in the city of Milwaukee, or are enrolled in a school, either public or private, within the city of Milwaukee.
There are 7 grade level categories:
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K-1: group project only (no essays), reflecting children’s work and ideas
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Grades 2-3: individual entries, maximum length 250 words
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Grades 4-5: individual entries, maximum length 350 words
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Grade 6: individual entries, maximum length 400 words
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Grades 7-8: individual entries, maximum length 450 words
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Grades 9-10: individual entries, maximum length 500 words
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Grades 11-12: individual entries, maximum length 550 words.
Typed essays preferred. Handwritten submissions must be neat and legible. Only 1 side of the page may be used.
Entries must stay within word limitation for their grade level. Please be aware that many excellent essays had to be disqualified in prior years because they exceeded word limitations.
Judging
The entries will be judged on a point system, with the following criteria considered:
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Entries must address the theme.
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Entries should relate the student’s own personal ideas or experiences to the topic and show an understanding of Dr. King’s ideals.
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Entries must not be a biographical sketch of Dr. King.
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Entries will be judged on the basis of clearly expressed, creative ideas. In judging entries, emphasis will be placed on clarity, creativity, and originality. Correct usage of basic grammar and writing skills will also be considered.
Teachers are encouraged to help students understand the historical context of Dr. King’s words and help students see the relevance of these words in their world today.
In order for students to write quality entries, they need to become familiar with Dr. King’s life and values. We strongly encourage both students and teachers to use the resources of Milwaukee Public Libraries.
Prizes/Recognition
Awards will be given at the Dr. King celebration on Sunday, January 15, 2012. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place writing contest winners will receive an engraved plaque and a U.S. savings bond from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Entry Delivery Information
All entries must be submitted by Tuesday, November 15, 2011 by 5:00 p.m. at one of the following locations:
The original essay should be submitted. Entries will not be returned. Teachers may wish to make copies for their students prior to submission. Entries submitted after 5:00 p.m., November 15, will not be considered for prizes.
NOTE: Please do not send your entry to Milwaukee Public Schools Central Office.
Identifying Your Entries
To facilitate anonymity in judging, the following information must be clearly printed or typed on the back of each entry:
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Student’s full name (include middle initial)
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Student’s grade level
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Student’s phone number
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Student’s address (including zip code)
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School name
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Teacher’s name
For each classroom packet of entries, attach a cover sheet (8.5 x 11) indicating the school, teacher’s name, grade level and a list of the students entering the contest.
Sponsors of the Writing Contest
The sponsors of the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Writing Contest are:
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The Milwaukee Teachers’ Education Association (MTEA)
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The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel