The elimination round for the International English Writing Competition, jointly sponsored by Yonsei University and the JoongAng Ilbo, will take place on Dec. 22. Here is information about the event.

How to participate.

The International English Writing Competition will accept online applications through Dec. 14 through the contest Web site, www.iewc.co.kr Students in third grade and up can participate. The elimination round will take place Dec. 22. The final is scheduled for Jan. 27. More information is available at the contest homepage.

Test questions and evaluation criteria.

There are three types of questions: multiple choice, summary (for elementary school students, description), and essay. The judges will evaluate how each answer meets the writing standards.
Multiple choice questions will test basic English composition. For summary questions, elementary school students will be asked to describe pictures while middle and high school students will be asked to provide a summary. Essay writing will count the most. It will be linked to the picture description and summary questions.

How to prepare.

There is no shortcut to writing well in English, just as in Korean. Reading is the basis of good writing. Practice also helps. The online editing service site of Yonsei University’s Foreign Language Institute Writing Center will be helpful. A person’s writing ability can be enhanced by showing a composition to a professional and receiving feedback.