2026 IEW Writing Contest

We are delighted to present our eleventh annual writing contest for all aspiring and accomplished writers, ages eight to eighteen. Whether or not they have experience with IEW's Structure and Style® writing method, your students are invited to participate.

For both the students and their parents/teachers, we have great prizes for the top three in each category!

First Prize: $400 (for student) + $400 IEW gift certificate (for parent or teacher)
Second Prize: $200 (for student) + $200 IEW gift certificate (for parent or teacher)
Third Prize: $100 (for student) + $100 IEW gift certificate (for parent or teacher)

*Due to international regulations about contests, international participants who win will receive IEW gift certificates for the student in lieu of cash prizes.

Here is how to participate.

1. Choose the correct category. Enter level according to the student's age as of March 1, 2026.

Level A (ages 8–10)
Level B (ages 11–13)
Level C (ages 14–18)

2. There are three different prompts, one for each level. Write your composition or essay following the guidelines in the checklist below for your entry to be considered.

Checklist

Format with Times New Roman, 12 pt. font, double-spaced.

Do not include your name on your paper.

Center the title.

Prompts

Stories—even fictional—can have a profound impact on our beliefs and actions. This might be due to a character that resonates with us, a conflict that we identify with, a message that speaks to us.

Level A

Write a 2-paragraph composition answering this prompt: “Write about a book, short story, or movie whose characters, events, or theme have significantly impacted you. Explain how.”

Level B

Write a 4- or 5- paragraph composition answering this prompt: “Write about a book, short story, or movie whose characters, events, or theme have significantly impacted your thoughts and/or actions. Explain the impact and its significance.

Level C

Write a 5- to 7-paragraph essay answering this prompt: “Write about a book, short story, or movie whose characters, events, or theme have significantly impacted your thoughts, actions, or how you view the world. Explain the specific elements that contributed to this impact, the impact itself, and its significance in your life.”

3. Submit your entry.

If you have any questions, email info@IEW.com and we will be happy to assist you.

The deadline for submission is April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM CT.

IEW Writing Contest winners will be announced in the July Magnum Opus Magazine e-Newsletter. Subscribe today!