The recently concluded Sheaffer Creative Writing Competition drew 150 essays from seven educational districts in Trinidad.It was developed by Dasaco Enterprises Ltd (authorised distributor Sheaffer writing instruments) and endorsed by The Ministry of Education. The educational district of Victoria led the field with the most entries.More than the stipulated two entries per school were received from a few schools but all were assessed in order that the participants were not penalised for an oversight for which they were not responsible.
Unfortunately several essays were typed and had to be disqualified, since one of the criteria expressly included was that of penmanship.Lead judge Cynthia M Birch noted it was not always clear that the essay was the unaided work of the pupil.This resulted in the essays being stilted at times or points being "listed" instead of the emphasis being on the personal views and reactions of the child, as was clearly the aim of the themes provided.Overall the essays were lively and interesting and promoted interest in the country.
It must be mentioned the word limit was observed except for a few instances where the limit was exceeded and one or two cases where fewer than the required 350 words were submitted.Sheaffer Writing Instruments, via its authorised distributor Dasaco Enterprises, has extended its thanks to the Government, Ministry of Education–Curriculum Planning & Development Division, acting director Gaynelle Holdip and all staff at the Ministry of Education for its continued support in developing future leaders of T&T and making the competition memorable.
Themes
Of the following themes the first two themes were popular but few pupils attempted the third theme.
Who is the person you admire most and why?
Why do you love Trinidad and Tobago?
What do you enjoy about your surroundings?