Essay Competition – Junior School & Cambridge Lower Secondary

ESSAY WRITING COMPETITION GUIDELINES: JUNIOR SCHOOL & CAMBRIDGE LOWER SECONDARY

 

1. Purpose of the Competition:

This essay writing competition aims to engage students in reflecting on the importance of internet safety. It encourages them to explore various strategies for staying safe online while also improving their writing skills. This initiative fosters critical thinking, digital literacy and creativity in expressing ideas on a relevant and timely topic.

 

2. Eligibility:

• Junior School: Students in grades 7, 8 and 9.
• Cambridge Lower Secondary: Students in Years 7, 8 and 9.

 

3. Essay Topics:

Students can choose one of the following topics for their essays:

• How can we stay safe while using the internet? (English)
• Jinsi gani tunaweza kuhakikisha usalama wetu tunapotumia mtandao? (Swahili)
• Comment pouvons-nous rester en sécurité quand on utilise l’internet ? (French)
• Wie können wir bei der Nutzung des Internets sicher bleiben? (German)

 

4. Essay Requirements:

• Length:
  • Junior School: 250-400 words.
  • Cambridge Lower Secondary: 300-500 words.
• Language:
  • Essays may be written in English, Swahili, French or German, depending on the student’s preference.
  • The language should be clear, well-structured and age-appropriate. Creativity, thoughtfulness, and insight are highly encouraged!
• Format:
  • Essays must be handwritten on the Doyen Essay Booklet, scanned and submitted in PDF. The scanned essay should be submitted to doyenpublishers@gmail.com
  • The essay should include the student’s name, grade and school at the top of the essay booklet.

 

5. Evaluation Criteria:

• Creativity and Originality (30%): The uniqueness of the ideas and how creatively the student explores the topic.
• Clarity and Structure (30%): The essay should have a clear introduction, body and conclusion, with ideas flowing logically.
• Language and Grammar (20%): Proper grammar, spelling, punctuation and sentence structure are important. The language should reflect the student’s grade and proficiency level.
• Adherence to Topic (20%): The essay should directly address the topic, showing a clear understanding of internet safety and practical suggestions.

 

6. Submission Process:

• Deadline: Essays must be submitted by Monday 31^st March, 2025.
• Submission Method: Essays should be submitted via email doyenpublishers@gmail.com .
• Late Submissions: Late entries will not be accepted unless previously arranged with us.

 

7. Prizes and Recognition:

• Top Prizes: 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in both Junior School and Cambridge Lower Secondary categories will receive certificates, medals and exciting prizes (such as books, stationery, gift cards).
• Certificates of Participation: All participants will receive a Certificate of Participation to recognize their efforts.
• Publication: Winning essays will be featured on our social media platforms and bulletin board.

 

8. Important Notes:

• Originality: All essays must be original work. Plagiarism will result in disqualification.
• Essay Retention: Essays will not be returned, so please ensure to keep a copy for your records.
• Parental/Teacher Guidance: Parents and teachers can offer guidance but the essay must be the student’s independent work.
• Feedback: Constructive feedback will be given to the top entries to help students improve their writing skills.

 

9. Contact Information:

For any questions or further information, please contact us via 0780802443 or 0797988020.