Ninja Essay Writing Contests: A Creative Way to Promote Literacy
Every year, creative writing contests pop up that encourage imaginative takes on history, fiction, and more. One unique theme for student writing challenges is the emerging trend of “ninja essay writing contests.” These competitive opportunities allow young writers to flex their descriptive muscles by crafting stories or factual essays about the secretive warriors of feudal Japan. In addition to promoting literacy, these contests introduce students to East Asian history and culture in an engaging hands-on way.
The objective of a ninja writing contest is to inspire colorful storytelling or informative non-fiction pieces related to ninjutsu, the covert arts practiced by shinobi spies and mercenaries during the Sengoku period of 16th century Japan. Topics can range from factual overviews of ninja clans, weapons and tactics to imaginative tales of stealth missions. The goal is to stoke students’ creative fires while teaching them about an oft-romanticized yet little understood aspect of Japanese history. Contests aim to move beyond Hollywood stereotypes to depict the realistic lives and skills of actual historic ninja.
Judging criteria focus on elements like descriptive detail, historical accuracy if applicable, grammar and organization. Creative flair is also rewarded, so fanciful tales are welcome as long as they don’t stray too far into the unrealistic. Word counts may range from 500-1500 words depending on the age group. Winners are typically awarded prizes like gift cards, books related to history, martial arts or creative writing. Their submissions may also be published on the sponsoring organization’s website or newsletter to encourage other young authors.
One example of an impactful annual ninja writing challenge is the “Tales of the Shinobi” contest held by the Midwest Ninja Research Center, an educational nonprofit dedicating to preserving historic ninjutsu traditions. For their contest, middle and high schoolers submit either factual reports on specific ninja clans or imagined short stories placing student characters in dramatic ninja scenarios. Judging looks for age-appropriate grammar as well as how thoroughly entries capture ninja tactics, strategies and codes of honor.
Winners receive a book on feudal Japan or ninjutsu techniques, along with certificates. But the real prize is seeing their work spur other students to learn more about this lesser known chapter of Asian history. “We want to spark interest in history through creative expression,” says Midwest Ninja founder Mariko Nakada. “Ninjas capture kids’ imaginations in a way dry textbooks can’t. If these contests motivate even a few students to study real ninja in more depth, we consider it a success.”
Another notable ninja writing challenge is organized annually by the Asia Education Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering East Asian cultural understanding among American youth. For high schoolers, they host the “Shinobi Shadows Essay Competition,” challenging students to craft 1,200-1,500 word essays exploring some aspect of historic ninjutsu or ninja clans in depth. Potential topics include comparing the stealth skills and weaponry of different regional clans, analyzing notable ninja like Hattori Hanzō, or examining the role of women within ninja families and ranks.
Judges look for thorough research beyond just pop culture sources, clear writing and an engaging train of thought. Winners receive a $500 cash prize and special certificate. Their essays may also be selected for publication on the Foundation’s website to serve as educational references for other students. “We want to go beyond the flash and glamour sometimes associated with ninjas to show young people the rigorous military discipline and cultural nuances of the real shinobi world,” says Asia Education Foundation director Lillian Wei.
The impact of these creative writing contests spreads beyond just the winners. By introducing ninjutsu and its history as an engaging theme, they ignite student curiosity across entire classrooms and schools. Teachers report surprise at the level of research some students undertake to compose realistic ninja tales or factually compelling essays. While sparking imaginations, the contests also cultivate important skills. Students hone their creative writing, research prowess, and ability to thoughtfully analyze history – all while gaining exposure to another culture.
For underserved communities in particular, exposure to East Asian history through a fun theme can be transformative. One Baltimore teacher discusses low-income students who had pre-existing biases suddenly becoming fascinated with Japan after an in-class ninja unit inspired by a writing contest. Contests like these help address gaps in standard curricula to broaden youth perspectives through unexpected avenues. As ninjutsu enthusiast and English teacher Junji Takada puts it, “There is educational gold to be found amidst the shuriken and shadows.”
Ninja essay writing contests present a creative means to promote literacy while also cultivating cultural understanding. By positioning East Asian history within an engaging framework, they ignite student interest that leads to deeper learning. Whether crafting imaginative tales or rigorous factual reports, young authors develop valuable lifelong skills through these challenges. Most importantly, contests spur curiosity about other cultures, counteracting biases through exposure. As long as ninjas remain an enigmatic subject of global fascination, their mysterious shadows will continue drawing students into rich histories worth exploring.
Andrew Stroud