FPSPI Storytelling Competition
by Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) Inc.
International Recognition
An individual oral storytelling competition where students perform a futuristic narrative on global topics, developing creativity and public speaking skills.
Mode
Hybrid
Fee
$110
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Affiliate competition timelines vary. The performance at the International Conference must not exceed 5 minutes.
Time needed
One story performance of up to 5 minutes
Eligibility
Open to students in grades 4-12 across three divisions: Junior (4-6), Middle (7-9), and Senior (10-12). This is an individual competition open to all students in India. Participants must create and perform an original story based on a designated annual FPSPI topic.
- Grade level
- Grade 4 to 12
- Age range
- 9 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- No specific academic requirements are needed, but a strong interest in global topics and creative expression is recommended.
- Prerequisites
- Interest in creative writing and storytelling
- Ability to research global topics
- Good oral communication and presentation skills
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Trophy & Medals
Top performers at the International Conference are recognized with awards during the official ceremony.
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
All participants receive a certificate acknowledging their involvement in the competition.
Recognition
International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 1 Aug 2026
- Registration closes
- 4 Mar 2027
- Competition
- 9 Jun 2027 to 13 Jun 2027
- Results
- 13 Jun 2027
Indiana University Bloomington (International Conference), Bloomington, Indiana
How to apply
- 1Students typically register through their school or a regional FPSPI affiliate in India.
- 2Participants select one of the annual topics to create their futuristic story.
- 3Submissions can be a video for virtual rounds or a live performance at affiliate events.
Rules and guidelines
- The performance must not exceed 5 minutes in length.
- The story must be set at least 20 years in the future.
- All work must be original and created by the student.
- No props, costumes, or theatrical makeup are permitted during the performance.
- Hand gestures and slight movements are appropriate, but elaborate acting is not allowed.
- Performers must not include any personal identifying information (name, school, country) in their performance.
- Submissions must adhere to the specific annual topic guidelines.
Technology requirements
- A device for video recording and a stable internet connection may be required for virtual submission rounds.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Registration fees for local affiliate competitions in India may vary. For the International Conference, fees are applicable fees will be up to $110 USD per competitor for on-campus participation, covering competition entry and events. Travel and accommodation costs are separate.
Refund policy
Refund policies are determined by the respective affiliate and the international organization and are typically available during registration.
About this opportunity
The Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) Scenario Performance competition challenges students to envision the future through compelling oral storytelling. Participants select an annual FPSPI topic and develop a creative, futuristic narrative set at least 20 years in the future, which they perform without props or costumes.
This individual competition is open to students in Junior (grades 4-6), Middle (grades 7-9), and Senior (grades 10-12) divisions. It is an excellent platform for students to enhance their creative thinking, research abilities, and public speaking skills, with winners from affiliate competitions advancing to the prestigious FPSPI International Conference.
Rounds and format
Participants typically compete in a regional or national affiliate competition. Winners of the affiliate competition advance to the International Conference to perform their story live in front of an audience and judges.
How entries are judged
Evaluation is based on a rubric that assesses storytelling technique, audience awareness, use of voice, story development, characterization, creative and futuristic thinking, and connection to the topic.
Selection process
The first-place winner from each division at an affiliated program competition is invited to compete at the FPSPI International Conference.
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
The competition is based on annual global topics released by FPSPI, requiring students to research and develop their narratives accordingly.
Frequently asked questions
How can students effectively prepare for the storytelling competition?
Effective preparation involves thorough research on the annual FPSPI topic, brainstorming futuristic scenarios, developing a compelling narrative structure, and practicing oral delivery. Students should focus on clarity, creativity, and adherence to the time limit for their performance.
What are the key judging criteria for the scenario performance?
Performances are evaluated based on a rubric that assesses storytelling technique, audience awareness, effective use of voice, logical story development, characterization, creative and futuristic thinking, and the story's connection to the designated topic.
How does participation in this competition benefit students' long-term academic and career goals?
Participating in this competition significantly enhances critical 21st-century skills such as creative thinking, public speaking, research, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valued in academic pursuits and diverse career paths, providing a competitive edge.
What support is available for students experiencing performance anxiety?
Students are encouraged to practice regularly and seek guidance from teachers or mentors. Affiliate programs often provide resources or workshops on public speaking and confidence-building. Focusing on the story and connecting with the audience can also help manage anxiety.
Are there opportunities for students to receive feedback on their performance?
Yes, trained FPSPI evaluators provide constructive feedback on performances. This feedback is designed to help students understand their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering continuous development in storytelling and public speaking skills.
How are the annual global topics selected, and how should students approach them?
Annual global topics are selected by FPSPI to encourage futuristic thinking and problem-solving on relevant world issues. Students should thoroughly research the chosen topic, identify potential future challenges, and weave them into a creative and coherent narrative.
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