Also known as Public Address, these events comprise speeches under 10 minutes, written by the speaker on a topic of their choosing. Competitors will create their own original work, usually following the format of introduction, three main points, and conclusion. There is no grace period for going overtime.
A speech with the intention of informing the audience on a specific subject, how it applies to the world, and the implications behind it.
A speech with the intention of persuading the audience on a specific subject, by presenting a real-world problem, its causes, and a course of action to take. This advocacy can range from getting someone to change their mind about an issue to garnering support for a subject.
Also known as a Speech to Entertain, After Dinner Speaking is a persuasive or informative speech presented through an entertaining, often humorous vehicle. Think of a stand-up comedy set revolving around a socially significant subject.
A speech in which a piece of communication (speech, film, art, campaign, etc.) is evaluated through a research question and communication model. The question proposed by the speaker is then answered with implications.
Events within the Oral Interpretation of Literature (known as “interp”) utilize pieces of existing works, written or created by others. Competitors generally and are performed through the lens of the platform thesis given—why this work should be learned from, listened to, etc. A manuscript containing the speech is required in a black book, and is the only prop permitted. All events must be under 10 minutes.
Competitors interpret a piece that is not traditionally intended to be performed (books, etc.), creating movement and storytelling to propel a narrative.
Competitors compile poetry of their own or from other poets to interpret. Multiple works of poetry are typically put together to create a program-style piece.
A pair of competitors performs either a single script (like a DI or prose) or compiles a program-style script. Competitors are not allowed to face one another while speaking directly to each other, nor are they allowed to touch each other with the exception of the black book.
Competitors interpret and perform a piece from anything that is meant to be performed. This includes, but is not limited to, movies, TV shows, and monologues.
Competitors perform a script drawn from various sources of prose, poetry, and drama. These pieces are woven together to create a cohesive narrative, oftentimes putting forth some form of advocacy or shedding light on a situation.
Competitors are given a set of stimuli, ranging from movie quotes, song lyrics, and philosophical sayings to colors and physical objects. The speaker will then interpret one of the prompts, prepare, and present a speech within the timespan of 7 minutes total. Speakers tend to utilize around 1.5 to 2 minutes to prepare and approximately 5 minutes to speak.
Competitors are given a set of 3 questions and have 30 minutes to research and prepare a 7 minute speech. Questions typically require an answer to pertinent social, political, and economic questions of the present. Internet access is allowed for research.
An event that combines oral interpretation and platform speaking to create a 25-minute script on a particular theme or subject. There is a required minimum of three cast members, but more are allowed. The use of costumes, blocks and props are permitted.