Big 8 Forensics Conference Tournament

2021 — Online, WI/US

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Informative Speaking

Event Description:

Purpose of the Category

To develop the skill of speaking informatively on any significant issue.

Definition of the Category

The challenge to the speaker is to present well-developed material that has the primary intent of informing, although persuasive elements may be present. The speech is to be coherent, unified, and clear. A range of support materials and devices are to be used which can include quotations, statistics, examples, comparisons, and analogies.

Rules

1. The speech must be the original work of the participant.

2. Visual supporting materials may be used, but not worn. Electronic devices may not be used.

3. Notes are permitted but limited to both sides of one 4" x 6" card. Use of a notecard is subject to critique.

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

5. Maximum time limit: 6 minutes, with an allowable 15-second grace period. There is no minimum time requirement. 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 the student justifies the worthiness of the topic and ideas of the speech.

2. The extent to which the organization of the speech was characterized by an objective presentation of accurate, well developed and unified information.

3. The extent to which the presentation reflected effective language skills, including such items as 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 the vocal presentation was clear and appropriate to the subject, including such items as articulation, pronunciation, volume, rate, pitch, and voice quality.

5. The extent to which the physical presence contributed to the clarity and effectiveness of the