Events offered

Public debate

In competitive public debate (IPDA), each round of debate has a different topic presented 30 minutes before the debate begins. Immediately after topic selection, the debaters must write and find evidence for a case to use. Public debate is designed to mirror debates which often occur in our modern society; accordingly, public debates range from intricate policy advocacy (like one may hear in the halls of Congress) to more light hearted metaphorical argument.

IMPROVISED DUET ACTING

Improvised Duet Acting (IDA) is an improvised acting event composed of two students who portray an original scene created after drawing the subject. The scene should establish two characters, a situation or problem and a solution to the conflict. A brief narrated introduction shall be used in establishing the setting and the characters in the scene. Performers will draw three topics and choose one topic for performance. They prepare in the performance room, performers cannot leave once they select their topic. Performers will present topic slip to judges before performing. No costumes, props or makeup may be used during the performance. Only one chair per performer may be used.

POETRY

Using a selection or selections of literature, students provide an interpretation of Poetry (POE) with a time limit of five minutes, including introduction. Poetry is characterized by writing that conveys ideas, experiences, and emotions through language and expression. Students may choose traditional poetry, often characterized by rhyme or rhythm, or nontraditional poetry, which often has a rhythmic flow but is not necessarily structured by formal meter (meter is a beat, pattern, or structure, such as iambic pentameter). Students may not use prose, nor drama (plays), in this category. Students must use a manuscript in Poetry, which typically consists of a small three-ring binder with page protectors.

STORYTELLING

Students select a published story that meets a specified theme and perform the story for no more than five minutes. Storytelling (STO) themes range widely and may include mysteries, heroism, or fairy tales. Students select a story that would be appropriate for young children and tell the story as if presenting to that audience. Students may use a chair. No manuscripts are allowed.

Extemporaneous Speaking

In Extemporaneous Speaking, students are presented with a choice of three questions related to current events in the U.S. and, in 30 minutes, prepare a seven-minute speech answering the selected question. Students may consult articles and evidence they gather prior to the contest, and some tournaments allow students to use the internet during preparation time. Topics range from political matters to economic concerns to U.S. foreign policy. The speech is delivered from memory.

Informative Speaking

Students deliver a self-written, ten-minute speech on a topic of their choosing. Limited in their ability to quote words directly, Informative Speaking (INF) competitors craft a speech using evidence, logic, and optional visual aids. All topics must be informative in nature; the goal is to educate, not to advocate. The speech is delivered from memory. Chromebooks, tablets, cellphones and/or any digital display or electronic technology is not permitted.

Impromptu Speaking

Impromptu (IMP) is a public speaking event where students have seven minutes to select a topic, brainstorm their ideas, outline, and deliver a speech. The speech is given without notes and uses an introduction, body, and conclusion. The speech can be lighthearted or serious. It can be based upon prompts that range from nursery rhymes, current events, celebrities, organizations, and more. No notes or binders are allowed in this event.

Original Oratory

Students deliver a self-written, ten-minute speech on a topic of their choosing. Limited in their ability to quote words directly, Original Oratory (OO) competitors craft an argument using evidence, logic, and emotional appeals. Topics range widely, and may be informative or persuasive in nature. The speech is delivered from memory.