Peralta District PTA

Literature

LITERATURE is the art of writing. The author (e.g., student submitting the entry) is a person who expresses their own thoughts and ideas through the use of words. Collections of literary work, such as multiple poems or short stories are not accepted.

To Portray Your Original Writing

Consider the following literary styles, Prose, Poetry, Drama, Reflective Essay, Narrative, Short Story.

To show a clear relation to the theme, use fiction or non-fiction, plot and characterization, setting and imagery, style, symbolism, etc.

Entry Checklist & Reminders

National-Level Requirements

Student Artist: Authors submit a single literary work using grammar, punctuation and spelling appropriate for their grade and/or support needs.

Word-count: Entry must not exceed 2,000 words.

Accepted formats: PDF. Handwritten & typed entries are accepted on 8.5x11 paper (one sided only). Number each page.

Reminders

Length Considerations: While there is no minimum word count, entries less than 10 words must be intentionally short, and the artist should explain the creative reason for the shortened entry.

Illustration: While original illustration is accepted, only literature content is scored.

Category Tips: Artist Statement and Title

Titles and artist statements can be useful in sharing details specific to your writing that help capture your creative process and theme interpretation. Consider the following:

Summarize the plot (main events, key turning points) without revealing too much.

Describe how the structure and point of view enhance the narrative or help convey the theme.

Explain the themes in the piece along with how they relate to you personally, to the reader and to the annual Reflections theme.

Examine the significant elements of narrative voice, literary devices, language, and/or diction in the piece.

Illustration, Translation & Transcription

Review the following considerations to inform use of dictation, transcription, illustration and/or translation.

Illustration

The following uses of illustration are acceptable:

Originality: Illustrated entries are acceptable if the visual content is created by the student artist. Only literary content is judged.

Prioritize Your Writing: The plot or purpose of an illustrated entry must be explained through written content, not illustration. For example, an illustrated comic may be accepted, but only the written plot, dialogue, and descriptions will be reviewed.

Dictation, Transcription and Translation

As necessary, the following uses of dictation, transcription and translation are acceptable. Collaborate with your PTA/PTSA or state PTA on any additional needs.

Translation: Students may submit in their preferred language. An interpretive translation in English must accompany the entry.

Transcription: Based on the student’s grade and/or support needs, entries may be dictated to another person and printed or typed in exact words as provided by the student.

Accuracy: Translators/transcribers should make every attempt to retain the same level of language and accuracy that is reflected in the student’s original work.

Digital Tools and Technology

Digital technology and/or software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. Entries may not be exclusively created with generative tools (e.g., AI) and/or composed exclusively of elements generated or provided by the technology platform.

Accepted:

Prototyping an original idea, design or concept before creating the final submission. Final pieces must be an original student creation.

Not Accepted:

Using templates, formulas, graphics provided by a platform/technology.

Plot, characters and/or literary elements generated by a platform/technology.

Guidelines

Describe Use of Technology: If digital technology is used, entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

Verify Prohibited Technology: Check if your state PTA prohibits the use of any digital platforms and/or methods (i.e., artificial intelligence).

Information provided by the National PTA website