Overview:

Students in this event prepare for competition by analyzing a topic of their choosing that is socially relevant.  They spend weeks or months developing their content which includes properly cited evidence or examples. Additionally, they design and create visual aids that support their advocacy. Their goal is to inform the audience about a topic of importance.  As a judge you will rank them from first to last.  

• Analysis and Content: Did the speaker analyze the topic adequately? Is the subject worthwhile and fresh?

• Introduction: Did the speaker get your attention and introduce the subject in an interesting manner? Did it apply to the rest of the speech?

• Relevance: Is the topic timely? Is the thesis clearly established? Does the delivery assist in establishing the importance of the topic?

• Organization: Were the ideas carefully selected and set forth in the speech?

• Supporting Materials: Did the speaker have adequate supporting materials for the main ideas presented?

• Style/Relatability: Did the speaker enunciate? Was the language usage better than average? Was style appropriate for the topic? Can the audience relate to the topic? Is the delivery personable? Does the speaker establish how others are impacted by the topic? Does the speaker do a good job informing?

• Conclusion: Was the conclusion concise? Was it well motivated? Did it effectively tie the speech together?

• Oral Presentation: Was the speaker communicative? Were mannerisms and posture appropriate? Did the speaker convey ideas effectively?

• Originality: Does the speaker address the topic in a unique, inventive way? Are the supporting examples new and interesting?