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The Annual SPUSA Writing Competition is an opportunity for Czech and Slovak students to express themselves creatively while developing their English ability.

Each year we invite participants to write on a specific topic. In recent years these topics have included:

• Silence
• Colors
• The Lessons You've Taught Me

We welcome all ideas and interpretations of the topic. The entries are judged primarily on originality and quality of thought rather than the standard of English.

The competition is supported by the American Embassy and is recommended by The Ministry of Education CR.

Rules

Entries must be related somehow to the topic, however indirectly.
Entries may be in any literary form poetry or prose, fiction on or nonfiction but must be original.

All entries must be written in English on a computer or typewriter within the following word limits:

• Junior Category (up to 15 years of age) - 300 words
• Intermediate Category (16-18 years of age) - 500 words
• Senior Category (18-26 years of age) - 600 words

Translations or copied works will NOT be accepted.
Entries will NOT be returned to writers, nor will SPUSA enter into correspondence with any contestant Contestants all categories must NOT be native speakers of English.
Previous winners may submit entries; they will NOT be eligible for any prizes but may receive an honorable mention at the prize giving ceremony, in the booklet of winning entries, and in the official notice of winners.

The last day for the entries is May 10th 2010.

All entries must be submitted with the following information:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Address
• Telephone number and/or e-mail address
• Place of study

Prizes

The top prize is a place in the Bath English Study Tour in Bath, England.

Secondary prizes include a place in Prague Summer Program at Charles University, a year of English study at SPUSA in Prague, books, writing equipment, dictionaries and other gifts. All contestants who make it to the second round will also receive membership in our Literature Club.

The prizewinners are invited to receive their gifts at a banquet on June 18th at the American Ambassador's Residence in Prague.

Judging

Entries are judged by a Czech and English speaking committee of writers, educators, and other professionals headed by Mr. Stránský - President of PEN, Czech Writers Club.

Contact

Entries can be sent by mail to:

Vzdělávací středisko SPUSA
Na Poříčí 6
110 00 Praha 1
Česká republika

or by email to: competition@spusa.cz

For more information please call: 224 210 813, cell phone: 608 979 410