Big 8 Forensics Conference Tournament

2021 — Online, WI/US

• Invite

Impromptu

Event Description:

Purpose of the Category

To develop the skills necessary to quickly provide a responsive statement to a variety of everyday words, phrases and topics.

Definition of the Category

The impromptu speaker should be able to quickly create and effectively deliver an original, well-organized and imaginative interpretation of the designated topic, supported by varied materials. The information presented should be well-chosen, pertinent, and sufficient to support the central thought of the topic and organized according to some logical plan to produce a complete speech within the time allowed.

Rules

1. Topics will be chosen from proverbs, objects, abstract words, events, quotations, and famous people. The speech must be original with the student and must be developed during the round. No pre-written or memorized speeches are allowed. The contestant should be held accountable for strict adherence to the topic drawn and discounted severely for shifting to some other topic of personal preference.

2. A judge in each section/room shall be provided an envelope containing a uniform set of topics, with a different subject area used for each round. The speaker will draw three topics, immediately choose one, and return the other two to the envelope. The speaker has five minutes in which to prepare and present a speech. Timing begins the moment the selection of the topic is made. When the contestant is ready to speak, the judge must be ready to listen and evaluate the speech.

3. Preparation materials are limited to one 4” x 6” note card that may be used during delivery, a writing implement, and time-keeping device. Properties and/or visual aids are not permitted. Students may not consult any pre-written material or electronic retrieval devices. Speakers may use a cell phone but only as a timing device; judges may request to verify usage. During the preparation period, the contestant shall not receive advice, information or suggestions from anyone.

4. Vocal music, if used, should be incidental and not overwhelm the presentation.

5. Maximum time limit: 5 minutes, with an allowable 15-second grace period. There is no minimum time requirement, and a contestant should not be penalized for brevity unless he/she fails to cover the subject adequately. Any entry exceeding the grace period may not be ranked first in the round. If all entries in a round exceed the grace period, no first rank shall be given in that round.

Criteria for Evaluation

1. The extent to which a direct and well-defined response to the topic chosen was provided.

2. The extent to which the ideas were analyzed and organized.

3. The extent to which the content (a) supported the response with worthwhile example, data, and personal insight; and (b) employed effective language skills including such items as the use of transitions and clear, vivid and appropriate word choices. Individual judges may lower the rank due to use of profanity or vulgarity.

4. The extent to which vocal interpretation contributed to the clarity and effectiveness of the presentation including such items as articulation, pronunciation, volume, rate, pitch, and vocal quality.

5. The extent to which the physical presence contributed to the clarity and effectiveness of the presentation, including such items as facial expression, eye contact, gestures, bodily movement, and poise