ESL A: 1.5 to 2 min ( target 1:45)

ESL B: 2 to 2.5 min (target 2:15) 

ESL C: 2.5 to 3 min (target 2:45)

ESL D: 3 to 4 min (target 3:30)

*Students significantly over time or under time may have marks removed for final grading criteria

• Speeches must be written originally by the student without the use of AI

• We highly recommend students' have their speeches memorized by the Final Competition Round (however, Q-cards are allowed, but should be minimally used)

• Speeches may be in a narrative format, reflective, persuasive or Monologue style for the creative topics

• Cue cards are permitted in the preliminary rounds at the school level and semi-finals. We highly recommend that they are minimally used by the final competition

• Home-language phrases and single sentence may be used when meaningful and should be explained in English 

• Any student who may require accomodation due to disability, medical needs, mental health consideration or learning differences are encouraged to contact the organizing team to let us know in advance of the Finals. 

Accomodation may include, but are not limited to:

• Modified time limits

• Use of cue cards / notes

• Seating or movement accomodation

• Adjustments to presentation format 

• Quiet space or sensory considerations 

• No microphones will be permitted, students are expected to use their natural speaking voice and project clearly to the audience. Students should practice voice projection, pacing and clarity as part of their preparation.

• Props are not permitted for most speech categories other than the 'Creative and Unique Option Topics' where a small prop may be permitted for the monologue style speech such as a photo, small object, cultural item, letter, or personal memento. Props must fit comfortably in one hand, support the story and not distract from it, and be used with intention whilst still maintaining eye contact and audience connection. 

• No additional technology is permitted: To maintain equity, accessibility and focus on oral communication, screens, slides, background music and audio effects are not permitted during speeches.