Technical Rules

The boring-but-important stuff, in plain language. Follow these so your entry counts and jurors can score you fairly.

Language

Submissions must be in English. If a work is submitted in a mother tongue, it will be evaluated via its English translation.

Time Limits

Respect the duration ranges given for each task. A tolerance of ±10 seconds is allowed for audio/video length.

Video & Audio Quality

HD video is not required. Audio must be clearly understandable.

Copyright (Music / Background)

Music or background sound is optional. If used, it must be copyright-free. We recommend using no music.

Use of AI

AI may be used for idea generation or planning. If the text appears to be “fully copied” (e.g. from an AI tool), the originality score may be reduced. Add a short statement on the application form: “The text is mine.”

8Minds
8Minds

Evaluation System (100 Points)

Criteria are aligned with the category and made measurable. Each of the four criteria is scored 0–25. Total = 100.

  • 1) Clarity of Expression (0–25)
    0–10: Scattered, hard to follow · 11–20: Generally clear, minor gaps · 21–25: Fluent, message very clear, good pace.
  • 2) Word Choice & Language Use (0–25)
    0–10: Repetitive, limited vocabulary · 11–20: Appropriate words, some effective phrases · 21–25: Rich word choice, strong sentences, good emphasis.
  • 3) Story / Argument Structure (0–25)
    0–10: Unclear beginning/end · 11–20: Structure present but limited effect · 21–25: Strong opening + development + effective conclusion (for Senior: strong argument chain).
  • 4) Emotional Impact & Delivery (0–25)
    0–10: No emotional transfer, monotonous · 11–20: Some impact in places · 21–25: Engaging delivery, emotion comes through, strong finish.

Age-Weighted Scoring

Even within the same age group, the participant’s age is taken into account.

  • Junior: Courage and clear expression are scored more leniently.
  • Senior: Higher expectations for depth, structure, and impact.

Jurors’ Scoring

Each juror scores all four criteria from 0–25. Total per juror = 100.

Submission (Upload) Package

Participants upload:

  • Video or audio file (MP4 / MP3)
  • Title + short description (max 2 sentences). Optional but recommended: Text document (PDF).
  • Task code: J1, J2, J3 or S1, S2, S3.

Example “Perfect Submission” (Junior)

Title: “The Talking Pen”. Task: J1. Description: “When I met a pen that could talk, I understood the power of writing. This story has fear and courage.”

Example “Perfect Submission” (Senior)

Title: “The Right to Make Mistakes”. Task: S1. Description: “I argue that mistakes are the fuel of learning. It includes a short personal example and a 3-point conclusion.”