Original Oratory
Overview:
Students competing in this event are delivering a memorized speech that is their own work. They may have a few quotes or sourced statistics, but the message is crafted by the student over several weeks or months and delivery should be polished. In many ways this is the most traditional speaking event with roots in ancient times, but students are encouraged to choose topics that are engaging and "edgy" topics that are relevant to their lives and modern society's challenges. As a judge, you will rank them from first to last.
How to Judge Oratory
Training from the National Speech & Debate Association
Showcase: Original Oratory
Overview from the National Speech & Debate Association
National Champion
A model performance from NSDA Nationals Final Round
Time Signals
Many speakers will ask for you to give them a time signal countdown as their 10 minutes elapses. Many ask for "5 down" or "3 down" and "a fist at grace." The best technique is to set your phone timer to count down from 10. Time begins when they speak the first word. You hold up fingers for the time remaining. (as pictured in the video) and make a fist at zero. At 0 minutes remaining the speaker has 30 seconds to finish. It is wise to consult with the tournament or check your ballot about rules regarding time.
Questions to Consider
As you rank students from first to last, consider all elements of their performances. Using the questions to the left can assist you in writing helpful ballot comments and accurately ranking a very competitive room of oratories.
Helpful Tools:
Online Timer
Grab this helpful tool to keep track of time.