Big 8 Forensics Conference Tournament

2021 — Online, WI/US

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Demonstration Speaking

Event Description:

Purpose of the Category

To develop skills in expository speaking with emphasis on demonstrating a process using objects or physical activity.

Definition of the Category

A demonstration speech explains how to do something or how something works. The speech must be instructive and present valuable and significant information in a well-organized and clear manner. Visual aids, if used, should enhance the demonstration but not to take the place of objects or activity.

Rules

1. The speech must be the original work of the participant, and the speaker must demonstrate a process and/or physical activity.

2. Presentations will take place in normal-sized classrooms with normal-sized doors. A table or desk will be supplied.

3. Visual aids (charts, graphs, diagrams, maps, pictures, etc.), properties and equipment are to be supplied by the speaker. This category prohibits use of firearms, sharp knives, dangerous chemicals, animals, or anything else that may endanger the health or safety of the participant, audience, and judge.

4. One other person, and only one, not a member of the audience, may be used to assist the demonstrator by serving as the object of demonstration or by helping to set up, strike, or handle equipment. The aide will not be considered a contestant; registration fees will not be assessed on this person, nor will he/she be eligible for an award. The assistant may be a contestant in another category, but contest managers are not responsible for special handling arrangements that this may require.

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

6. Maximum time limit: 10 minutes, including set up and strike down, 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 topic content reflected value or significance.

2. The extent to which the use of objects and/or physical activity were incorporated into the demonstration process.

3. The extent to which the presentation: (a) achieved effective organization, and (b) employed 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 presentation, including such items as facial expression, eye contact, gestures, and bodily movement.