Rogue Valley Invitational
2022 — Medford, OR/US
Impromptu
Event Description:
13.9. Impromptu Speaking 13.9.1. Communication among judges during the round. Judges must make independent decisions. Judges shall not discuss decisions with other judges prior to turning in ballots. Timekeepers may share the length of a given speech only. If questions arise regarding the rules or conduct of an event, judges shall ask at Speech State Championships headquarters. 13.9.2. Topic Area. Choices that would include: One word, one philosophical phrase, one policy‐ oriented topic. Oregon School Activities Association 13.9.3. Procedures of the Contest (a) Each contestant shall draw a topic slip containing three topics. (b) Contestants may read aloud the topic chosen or may incorporate the topic statement into the speech. (c) Contestants shall have 30 second to prepare before speaking. This 30 seconds shall not be counted as part of the five minutes with a 30‐second period of grace provided as speaking time. (d) Notes, materials or previously prepared speech outlinesshall not be allowed asthe contestantspeaks. (e) Contestants are not allowed to hear the other speakers before them. After a contestant has spoken, however, he / she may remain in the room to hear the speakers who follow. 13.9.4. Length. There is no minimum time limit; a maximum of five minutes with a 30‐second period of grace is allowed. A timekeeper shall use hand signals showing the time left in the speech: 4, 3, 2, 1, 1 / 2, 0. The 30‐second preparation period shall not be counted as part of the speaking time. If laughter delays the speaker, the timekeeper shall make allowance by stopping the watch at the beginning and starting it at the end of each interruption. Contestants who violate the time limit may receive a lower rank. No contestant may be penalized if a stopwatch was not used for timing.