Debate:
Parliamentary Debate (Parli)
In teams of 2, debaters will have 20 minutes to prepare for either supporting or opposing the topic. These topics are often based on real-world events, domestic and foreign (e.g.: The USFG should invest in solar energy. NATO does more harm than good). Through debate, you will build key research, writing, and critical thinking skills!
Speech (Platform):
Informative Speaking (Info)
A.k.a. expository speaking. Students deliver a self-written, ten-minute speech on a topic of their choosing. The speaker should provide unique insights and explore interesting implications. At its core, Expository is an informative speech. Students doing Expository may cover topics ranging from an organization to a product, a process, or concept. Effective speeches provide new information or perspectives on a topic, including those that are widely known. Props are allowed.
Original Oratory (OO)
Students deliver a self-written, ten-minute speech on a topic of their choosing. Limited in their ability to quote words directly, Original Oratory competitors craft an argument using evidence, logic, and emotional appeals. Topics range widely and may be informative or persuasive in nature. The speech is delivered from memory.
Speech (Interp):
Dramatic Interpretation (DI)
In D.I., an 10 minute edited selection from a published play, musical, novel or short story is performed from memory. Emphasis is on drama over comedy. Voice acting is stressed as props and costumes are forbidden.
Humorous Interpretation (HI)
H.I. is identical in all ways to D.I. except that comedic selections are the norm.
Declamation (DEC)
A.k.a. oratorical interpretation. Encourages the competitor to become Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, or any other notable speaker. A 10-minute selection from a famous speech is memorized and either delivered as faithfully in style as the original, or personalized/modernized in style.
Duo Interpretation (DUO)
Duo is very similar to D.I. and H.I. but differs in that TWO different competitors divide up the characters, without looking at the other or touching each other.
Speech (Spontaneous):
Impromptu (IMP)
Impromptu is a public speaking event where students have seven minutes to select a topic, brainstorm their ideas, outline, and deliver a speech. The speech is given without notes and uses an introduction, body, and conclusion. The speech can be lighthearted or serious. It can be based upon prompts that range from nursery rhymes, current events, celebrities, organizations, and more.
Extemporaneous Speaking (DX & FX)
In Extemporaneous Speaking, students are presented with a choice of three questions related to International OR domestic current events and, in 30 minutes, prepare a seven-minute speech answering the selected question. Students may consult articles and evidence they gather prior to the contest, but may not use the internet during preparation. Topics range from country-specific issues to regional concerns to foreign policy. The speech is delivered from memory.