Program of Oral Interpretation

Overview:

Students competing in this event are performing a woven collection of poetry, prose, drama or other genres. Students are encouraged to explore socially relevant and emotionally powerful content and many pieces have mature themes. They will have rehearsed for weeks or months to deliver a polished and emotional performance. They typically use a small black binder and close it during an introduction that states their theme and properly cites the source of their content. As a judge, you will rank them from first to last.

How to Judge POI

Instructions from the National Speech & Debate Association

Example Performance

National Speech & Debate Association final round performer

Example Performance

National Speech & Debate Association final round performer

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 performances.

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.

Helpful Tools:

Online Timer

Grab this helpful tool to keep track of time.