Individual Events Instructions

Panel B Events

Extemporaneous Speaking: Prior to coming to the round, contestants will have drawn three topics from which they have chosen one. The topics will deal with issues of significant contemporary interest discussed in major national news magazines during the weeks prior to the tournament. Contestants have been given a maximum of 30 minutes to prepare an appropriate speech, and have been permitted to use books, magazines, library aids, etc., but not to consult with other persons. Timing will begin as indicated by the tournament schedule; students who draw late will have less time to prepare. Contestants must speak in their assigned order. Notes may not be used in Varsity division. The maximum speaking time is 7 minutes. There is no minimum time limit.

Original Advocacy: The speech is the original work of the contestant. Any appropriate subject may be used, but the contestant must be truthful. Non-factual references, especially personal experiences, should be identified as such. Some direct quotation is allowed, but visual aids are not allowed. Orations must be memorized in Varsity division. The maximum speaking time is 10 minutes. There is no minimum time limit. NOTE: All students in this event must present a specific legislative solution to the problem they address.

Oratorical Interpretation: The contestant chooses a published speech delivered originally by a real person. The interpretation should recreate the meaning of the selection through the use of voice, gestures, eye contact, and facial expression. Interpretations must be memorized in Varsity division. Maximum speaking time is 10 minutes. There is no minimum.

Original Prose/Poetry: The prose-poetry presentation must be the original composition of the contestant. Manuscripts or notes ARE OPTIONAL. NO singing, dancing, props, or costumes are permitted. The contestant may use up to 150 words quoted from other sources. The maximum time for performance is 10 minutes. There is no minimum time.

Dramatic Interpretation: Selection must be chosen from published stories, plays, essays, or poems. Title and author should be included in the memorized introduction. The contestant must remain STANDING throughout the presentation. NO props, make-up, or costumes may be used. NO singing or dancing is allowed. Maximum time is 10 minutes. There is no minimum time.