Brighton
2022 — Rochester, NY/US
V Extemporaneous Speaking
Event Description:
1. The best speaker should be given the rank of 1.
2. No two speakers may be given the same rank.
3. Time Limit: Maximum of seven (7) minutes with no minimum. There is a mandatory thirty (30) second grace period during which time no penalty may be assessed. Speakers who exceed this grace period may not be ranked first in the round.
4. Speakers MUST be made aware of the passage of time either by the judge or by a timekeeper in the room. Speakers will determine how they will be apprised of the passage of time.
5. The presentation must be from memory. Note cards are not allowed in Varsity level. Speakers with note cards must rank lower than those who are memorized.
The best extemporaneous speech – in which a speaker specifically answers a question on some aspect of current issues – combines analytical thinking, effective delivery, clear organization and an interesting presentation to establish a definite thought with respect to the chosen topic question. The speaker is to be held accountable for strict adherence to the precise question to be addressed, and should be severely penalized for shifting focus onto some other related aspect of the topic. The speaker should present relevant and current information, appropriately citing its sources, and should display a genuine knowledge of the subject. The process of synthesis and an in-depth analysis should be evident in the speech, and delivery should be comfortable and direct. There should be no rewards or penalties given because of the point of view expressed by the speaker.