Rules and Scoring
Poetry Slam
Rules
- Poems must be original.
- Absolutely no profanity is allowed.
- No props!
- This is a performance, not a reading. Choreographed movements and other unique expressions are encouraged.
- Each contestant must submit a Parent Consent & Release form signed by a parent/guardian to participate. Parent Consent & Release-PDF
- Performances are timed. Each poet or poetry team gets three minutes (plus a thirty-second grace period). If the poet goes over time, points will be deducted from the total score.
- Participants must submit a written copy of the poem they plan to perform at least 3 days in advance.
- Students who attend the slam must be accompanied by a teacher, parent, or a coach.
If you need more information call: (817) 306-4441
Scoring
How does the Poetry Slam work?
First, each team from each category (Elementary, middle and high school) receives a chance to perform an original poem together. Next, individual poets have the opportunity to perform their original poem. The highest scoring team and individual from each competing category will win a cash prize. All participants receive recognition.
Poetry Slam Scoring
There will be five qualified judges. Each judge will receive a set of scoring cards, one with whole numbers (1-10) and one with decimal numbers (.1-.9). Here’s an example of possible scores: 1.9, 5.3, 10, 10 and 10. The highest and lowest scores are dropped, leaving a possible total score of 25.3 points.
Categories & Prizes – 1st place winners will receive cash prizes. All participants will receive recognition.
|
A team may comprise: 2 to 5 poets from the same or different grades within a specified category. However, we suggest preparing at least 10 students, just in case.
Bouts: Only in the event of a tie will there will be a second bout.
- First bout: All contestants will receive an opportunity to perform.
- Second bout: Only contestants whose score ties with someone in their category.
