Overview:

Students competing in this event are delivering a memorized speech that is their own work. They may have a few quotes or sourced statistics, but the message is crafted by the student over several weeks or months and delivery should be polished. In many ways this is the most traditional speaking event with roots in ancient times, but students are encouraged to choose topics that are engaging and "edgy" topics that are relevant to their lives and modern society's challenges. 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?

• 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: Did the speaker enunciate? Was the language usage better than average? Was style appropriate for the topic?

• 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?