Cozad Holiday Speech Invitational
2020 — Online, NE/US
Extemporaneous Speaking
Event Description:
The extemporaneous speech should not be regarded as a memory test of the material contained in any one magazine article, but rather as an original synthesis by the speaker of the current fact and opinion on the designated topic as presented by numerous sources. The speaker may (but is not required to) refer to one 4” x 6” notecard.
The contestant should be held accountable for strict adherence to the precise statement of the topic drawn and discounted for shifting to some other phase of the topic on which s/he might prefer to speak. The information presented should be well-chosen, pertinent, and sufficient to support the central thought of the topic.
The material should be organized according to some logical plan to produce a complete speech within the time allowed. Delivery should be demonstrate effective mechanics of speech -- poise, quality and use of voice, enunciation, fluency, bodily expressiveness -- and should be effective in enlisting and holding the interest of the audience.
The best extemporaneous speech combines clear thinking, good speaking, and interesting presentation to establish a definite thought with respect to the subject chosen.
Do not require a contestant speaking on a controversial subject to take a personal stand on that issue. He/she may do so, or he/she may elect to present both sides of the controversy as currently set forth in the public press. Evaluate the speaker on the effectiveness with which he/she develops the subject according to his/her own plan.