![]() Ohio’s Original Interscholastic Creative Writing Program for Middle Schools |
2023 State Tournament photos by JW Cooper Photography The Power of the Pen Seventh- and eighth-grade students learn writing skills that last a lifetime in Power of the Pen. Power of the Pen empowers young people to find and develop their own unique creative voice through participating in district, regional, and state writing tournaments. The Power of Competition Nearly 300 schools across Ohio currently compete in Power of the Pen. Schools select a coach, register in the fall for tournaments, then form Power of the Pen teams/creative writing clubs to prepare for tournaments held in the winter and spring. The thrill of competition provides strong motivation for practice. The Power of Mentors Each participating team gets ready for competition using the Book of Winners, which features the the most compelling student writing from the previous season. During team practices, students engage in conversations about the writer’s craft and the impact of these stories written by their peers. The Power of Collaboration These conversations teach student writers how to collaborate and give feedback on each other's writing. Participation in Power of the Pen improves writing skills and confidence, enhances leadership skills, and encourages teamwork. Published authors, museum and library directors, engineers, marketing professionals, teachers – these are just a few of the many alumni who credit Power of the Pen with helping them develop the skills that led to their successful careers. Start planning now to have a Power of the Pen team! Email info@powerofthepen.org for details.
We are collecting testimonials, photos and videos from current Power of the Pen writers and the individuals we have inspired over the years. These will be used to help us grow and share our mission to create an even greater impact on students throughout the state of Ohio! |
justin a. reynolds was the guest author at the Power of the Pen State tournament at Ashland University, May 18-19, 2023. During Friday's keynote, he shared insights about making writing a career and connecting with readers. State tournament participants had the opportunity to talk with justin during book signings on Thursday and Friday.
Check out hoodies, T-shirts, and more for writers, coaches, parents, alumni, and friends of Power of the Pen!
Not only is the Book of Winners an excellent model of the best 7th and 8th grade writing, but it is also fun to read. Purchase your copy today! Teams who participate in the 2023-2024 season will receive one free copy of the 2022 Book of Winners.
Platinum Pen Award winners, you are eligible for publication in the 2023 Book of Winners! When you won the award, you received a certificate and a Publication Procedures document with instructions for submitting your photo. Click here with a parent to complete the Google form. Google account is required to complete the form. Even if you do not wish to submit a photo, please fill out the Google Form. There is a space where you can tell us that you do not want to include a photo in the Book of Winners. |
Power of the Pen |