Format: Single Presenter, Binder Used, Max Time: 10:30

The competitor prepares two pieces, each between eight and ten minutes long and presents each on alternating rounds (Poetry for round one and then Prose for round two, etc.). Use of a binder is required and competitors are not required to have the pieces memorized. This is a great event for students just getting started in speech.

Poetry

Using a selection or selections of literature, students provide an oral interpretation of poetry. Poetry is characterized by writing that conveys ideas, experiences, and emotions through language and expression. Students may choose traditional poetry, often characterized by rhyme or rhythm, or nontraditional poetry, which often has a rhythmic flow but is not necessarily structured by formal meter (meter is a beat, pattern, or structure, such as iambic pentameter). Students may not use prose, nor drama (plays) in this category.

Prose

Using a short story, parts of a novel, or other published work of prose, students provide an oral interpretation of a selection of materials. Typically a single piece of literature, prose can be drawn from works of fiction or non-fiction. Prose corresponds to common speech patterns and may combine elements of narration and dialogue. Students may not use poetry, or drama (plays), in this category.

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