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Words in Motion

Words In Motion is a literacy program that promotes an appreciation for the art of poetry. It is open to everyone (5+) living in the Wood Buffalo region. Whether you are a student, a professional writer, or a novice wordsmith, you are encouraged to participate with your original poetry.

An external panel of judges will select the poems to be published in the 2027 Words in Motion Poetry Booklet. Authors of the selected poems will be invited to participate in a celebration event. There are also cash prizes for the top 3 poets!

Poems must be submitted by February 20. Poems submitted before January 1 are entered to win an early bird draw.

Judging will be done in three categories:
- 5-12yrs
- 13-17yrs
- 18+

Guidelines:

  • Previously published poems will not be accepted.
  • Poems can be of any theme or form, and can be written in any language. If you are submitting a poem in a language other than English, you must also submit an English translation of the poem.
  • Poem selection will be based on originality, appropriateness, poetic techniques, organization & flow, emotion, image & imagination.
  • Class poems (i.e. poems collectively created by a classroom with guidance from the teacher) are allowed. However, class assignments with teachers setting up a ‘formula’ for students to fill in will be disqualified.
  • If you wish to remain anonymous, please indicate that in your submission.
  • Maximum of three entries per poet. Each entry must be its own PDF.
  • Poems using any form of AI will not be accepted
  • Submissions not following the guidelines will not be accepted
  • Submissions must be uploaded as a typed, PDF file, with a legible font
  • Submissions must be uploaded as the title of the poem and the writer's full name. ie. Ghost_Jessica_Smith

Words in Motion Poetry Submission

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name*
Age Range*
Please select your age range to enter the appropriate judging category.
Please submit 1 poem per attachment. Submissions must be uploaded as the title of the poem and the writer's full name. ie. Ghost_Jessica_Smith
Drop files here or
Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 30 MB, Max. files: 3.
    Confirmation*

    This information will be submitted via email. .

    The personal information collected through this form will be used to notify you if your submission will be included in the Words in Motion Poetry Booklet. If your poem is selected, your name will be included alongside your poem in the Words in Motion Poetry Booklet. This collection is authorized by the Protection of Privacy Act Section 4(c). For questions about the collection of personal information contact 780-743-7800.