Speech Judging Resources

SPEECH EVENT DESCRIPTIONS

In Creative Expression, the speaker presents an original, creative piece. They are judged on writing as well as delivery.

In Discussion, students are given up to an hour to discuss in a small group, and come to a cooperative agreement or compromise on a given prompt.

In Duo Interpretation, a pair of speakers present a piece together. Body contact is not allowed and speakers are only allowed eye contact with each other during the introduction and transitions.

In Extemporaneous Reading, the speaker draws three "cuttings" (a portion of a story) from a selection of around twenty short stories or poems. The speaker chooses one of the three to read and is given thirty minutes to practice it, write an introduction, and memorize the introduction.

In Extemporaneous Speaking, the speaker draws three national or international current event questions, and is given thirty minutes to prepare a seven-minute speech on the drawn topic of their choice.

In Great Speeches, the speaker presents on a historically great speech, including an analysis and sections of the original speech.

In Humorous Interpretation, the speaker presents a humorous selection from a play, prose, or poem.

In Impromptu Speaking, the speaker has a total of 7 minutes to select, prepare, and deliver a speech on a wide variety of topics, unknown in advance.  

In Informative Speaking, the speaker presents an original, unbiased speech on the topic of their choice with the purpose to inform. They are also permitted to use posters or other visual aids to enhance their presentation. This the only category where visual aids or props are permitted.

In Original Oratory, the speaker presents an original speech with the purpose of persuading the audience.

In Serious Interpretation of Drama, the speaker presents a serious monologue, or selection from a play.

In Serious Interpretation of Poetry, the speaker presents a serious poem, selection of poems, or portion of a poem.

In Program Oral Interpretation, the speaker presents a speech that is a combination of at least two of the following categories: Poetry, Prose, and Drama.

In Serious Interpretation of Prose, the speaker presents a serious selection from a novel or short story.

In Storytelling, the speaker draws three from a selection of fifteen folk tales, and presents their interpretation of it.