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What is the Speech Team?
What is the Speech Team?
A competitive activity in which students compete in 14 unique events, ranging from impromptu speaking to acting to broadcasting to poetry and prose reading. This activity gives students endless opportunities to practice their public speaking skills amongst others who are also interested in polishing their craft of public performance.
Plus, you make friends for life - once a speechie, always a speechie!
💙🧡💬🧡💙
What are the 14 Competitive Events?
What are the 14 Competitive Events?
Mid-Suburban League Conference is always a blast for our Speech Family! (Jan. 28, 2017)
Dramatic Duet Acting
Dramatic Duet Acting
A cutting from a script, generally serious, involving the portrayal of two or more characters presented by two competitors.
Event Time: 8 minute performance
Dramatic Interpretation
Dramatic Interpretation
A published script that represents one or more characters. The focus of this event is on the development of characterization.
Event Time: 8 minute performance
Extemporaneous Speaking
Extemporaneous Speaking
Competitors will be given three topics in the general area of politics, current events, global affairs, etc. You choose 1 topic and have 30 minutes to prepare a speech that is the original work of the student.
Event Time: 7 minute speech
Humorous Duet Acting
Humorous Duet Acting
Two students perform a scene/script/interpretation of a published humorous work. A table and two chairs may be used as props in the performance. No costumes.
Event Time: 8 minute performance
Humorous Interpretation
Humorous Interpretation
One student performs a memorized interpretation of a published humorous work. The script will feature more than one character, all of which are portrayed by the performer, using different stances, body language, vocal tones, etc.
Event Time: 8 minute performance
Impromptu Speaking
Impromptu Speaking
Competitors learning to present speeches and discuss topics "in the moment." Topic selections vary by round and by section. Topics will be derived from quotations & proverbs. Speakers will have a total of 8 minutes for both preparation and speaking.
Informative Speaking
Informative Speaking
An original, factual speech written by the competitor on a realistic and fascinating subject/topic to inform the audience. Multiple sources should be used and cited in the development of the speech.
Event Time: 8 minute speech
Oratorical Declamation
Oratorical Declamation
Memorize and perform an interpretation of a published speech written or delivered by another person. Typically, speeches selected are TED talks, commencement addresses, motivational/inspirational ideas, etc.
Event Time: 8 minute speech
Original Comedy
Original Comedy
Originally write and perform a humorous script. These should feature multiple characters interacting within some sort of plot. Obnoxious voices and silly storylines are encouraged!
Event Time: 8 minute speech
Original Oratory
Original Oratory
Compose an argumentative speech that serves as a "call to action" for the audience. This speech is written and memorized by the student beforehand, should be focused on a problem the student feels needs to be addressed (gun violence, natural phenomena, health & diets, etc.)
Event Time: 8 minute speech
Poetry Reading
Poetry Reading
A selection or selections of poetry, which may be drawn from more than one source. A primary focus of this event should be on the development of nuance, language, and interpretation. Pieces must be published, not original.
Event Time: 8 minute performance
Prose Reading
Prose Reading
Find a published piece of literature/story and perform it to the audience u sing vocal inflection, facial expression, and hand gestures to convey emotion and communicate the message of the piece.
Event Time: 8 minute performance
Radio Speaking
Radio Speaking
Play the role of a radio news broadcaster! Students prepare a newscast containing world, national, local, and sports news, along with weather and a commercial. The performer is evaluated on broadcast organization, clear enunciation with minimal stumbles, and a professional delivery that varies depending on the tone of each news story - like a radio or TV news anchor.
Event Time: 4:50 - 5:05 (Limited Prep!)
Special Occasion Speaking
Special Occasion Speaking
Compose a SPEECH that uses HUMOR to convey an important message. The speech is written and memorized by the competitor, and is structured as a lighthearted and entertaining address to a particular group of people that highlights an issue the student feels deserves attention.
Event Time: 4:50 - 5:05 (Limited Prep!)
Performance in the Round
Performance in the Round
This event is exclusive to the IHSA state series. Students not competing in one of the 14 individual events in the state series are eligible to compete in Performance in the Round. PIR is a 15-minute interpretation of a dramatic or humorous script performed by a small group of students.
Event Time: 10-15 minute interpretation
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