Timberwolf Invitational

2025 — Coeur d'Alene, ID/US

Open Original Spoken Word

Abbreviation OSW
Format Speech
Entry Fee $8.00
Entry 1 competitors per entry

Event Description:

Students will write and perform original poetry to express ideas, experience, or emotionthrough the creative arrangement of words according to their sound, rhythm, and meaning.


o The maximum time limit is 5 minutes with a 30-second grace period.
o The delivery should be memorized, and no book or script may be used.
o No more than 150 words of the original poetry may be direct quotation from any otherspeech or writing.
o A successful performer will craft a piece that elicits critical thought, reflection, or emotion.
o As opposed to traditional Poetry, Spoken Word Poetry is created to be performed aloudand may feature rhythmic flow, vivid imagery, word play, gestures, lyrical elements, andrepetition.
o Use the Getting Started with Original Spoken Word Poetry guide as a helpful tool to exploreways to express thoughts and experiences through poetry.