What is "Forensics"?

"Forensics" is a word rooted in the Western world's classical experience. The Greeks organized contests for speakers that developed and recognized the abilities their society felt central to democracy. These exercises acquired the title "forensics," derived from the Latin term "forensis" and closely related to forum. Because the training in this skill of public advocacy, including the development of evidence, found one of its important venues in the law courts, the term "forensic" has also become associated with the art and science of legal evidence and argument.

What are the events that I can compete in?

• Prose Reading

• Poetry Reading

• Group Interpretation

• Play Acting

• Solo Acting

• Storytelling

• Demonstration

• Extemporaneous Speaking

• Informative

• Oratory

• Special Occasion Speaking

• Public Address

• Radio Speaking

• Moments in History

• Impromptu

Who can join?

Any LUHS student who is in good standing academically can participate. No prior speaking experience is necessary.

How long is the season?

Preparation for competition begins in November, with the team selected by January. The subdistrict contest is held in February, with the District competition occurring in March and the State Contest in April. Practice for competition is personalized and set up with the coach for each category. Meaning, that even if you are involved with a sport, you can still participate in Forensics without having to give up one or the other!

Why should I join?

Even if you don't need to make regular presentations in front of a group, there are plenty of situations where good public speaking skills can help you create opportunities.

For example, in the near future you might have to talk about your organization at a conference, make a speech after accepting an award, or teach a class to new recruits. Public speaking also includes online presentations or talks; for instance, when training a virtual team, or when speaking to a group of customers in an online meeting.

Good public speaking skills are important in other areas of your life, as well. You might be asked to make a speech at a friend's wedding, give a eulogy for a loved one, or inspire a group of volunteers at a charity event.

In short, being a good public speaker can enhance your reputation, boost your self-confidence, and open up countless opportunities.

However, while good public speaking skills can open doors, poor speaking skills can close them. For example, your boss might decide against promoting you after sitting through a poorly-delivered presentation. You might lose a valuable new contract by failing to connect with a prospect during a sales pitch. Or you could make a poor impression with your new team, because you trip over your words and don't look people in the eye.