Events offered through the NSDA and local tournaments can be (typically) divided into two categories:
Debate events tend to incorporate skills in research, argumentation, critical thinking, as well as an interest in politics or philosophy. Debate events can be divided into four categories; partner (double), single, team, or congressional
DEBATE EVENTS TO CHECK OUT:
Lincoln Douglas Debate (single)
1v1 debate format centered around values and how society should or should not function
Policy Debate (double)
2v2 format involving an in depth plan affirming a resolution and a side denying the resolved
Big Questions Debate (single or double)
1v1, 2v2, OR 1v2 debate format evaluating an annual philosophical question
Public Forum Debate (double)
2v2 format with frequently changing resolutions based on current events
Extemporaneous or SPAR (single)
1v1 debate that is ENTIRELY impromptu with relatively short rounds
World Schools Debate (team)
3v3 format with each side presenting a prepared motion with a focus on real world examples
Congressional Debate (congressional)
A simulation of US congress (house and senate) where a group of 10-25 students present bills in a legislative session
Speech events tend to require the usage of articulation, projection, memorization, and persuasion. Speech events can be broken into two categories; public address events and interpretation events. Some speech events may also have a partner.
SPEECH EVENTS TO CHECK OUT:
Dramatic / Humorous Interp (interpretation)
An 8-10 minute oral interpretation of a memorized script that is either humorous or dramatic (depending on choice of event)
DUO Interp (interpretation)
An 8-10 minute oral interpretation where two partners perform a memorized script that can be funny, dramatic, or sends a message
Impromptu (public address)
Competitors are given 7 minutes to prep and put together an improvised speech on their choice of 3 provided topics
Extemporaneous (public address)
An event where you are given 3 current event related questions, 30 minutes of prep time, and have to give a 7 minute speech including a variety of evidence
Informative (public address)
A 10 minute presentation informing an audience about a topic of significance and of your choice through the use of delivery and style
Original Oratory (public address)
A completely self-written and memorized speech event where each competitor gives a 10 minute speech about a topic of their choice