Event Descriptions

Event Description

ALL EVENTS WILL FOLLOW GEORGIA FORENSIC COACHES ASSOCIATION RULES AND REGULATION.

Visit the GFCA at http://www.gaspeechanddebate.org/ for more information. 

Dramatic Interpretation:

Using a play, short story, or other published work, students perform a selection of one or more portions of a piece up to ten minutes in length. With a spotlight on character development and depth, Dramatic Interpretation focuses on a student’s ability to convey emotion through the use of a dramatic text. Competitors may portray one or multiple characters. No props or costumes may be used. Performances may also include an introduction written by the student to contextualize the performance and state the title and author.

Duet Acting:

Duet Acting involves two people, two chairs, and (in some jurisdictions) a table; the furniture is supplied in each room of competition. Time limits vary, but generally each acting pair performs an eight- to twelve-minute scene, typically using only two characters. Occasionally the performers change roles, but can only play one character per scene in the manner of dramatic or humorous interpretation. The pieces may be either serious or funny, and the extensive use of movement is permitted (i.e., interaction between both characters, as well as with the table and chairs).

Duo Interpretation:

Two competitors team up to deliver a ten-minute performance of a published play or story. Using off-stage focus, Duo Interpretation competitors convey emotion and environment through a variety of performance techniques focusing on the relationships and interactions between the characters. No props or costumes are used. Performances may also include an introduction written by the students to contextualize the performance and state the title and author.

Extemporaneous Speaking:

Students are presented with a choice of three questions related to current events in the United States and abroad. In 30 minutes, prepare a seven-minute speech answering the selected question. Students may consult articles and evidence they gather prior to the contest. Topics range from International political matters to economic concerns to U.S. foreign policy. The speech is delivered from memory.

Humorous Interpretation:

Using a play, short story, or other published work, students perform a selection of one or more portions of a piece up to ten minutes in length. Humorous Interpretation is designed to test a student’s comedic skills through script analysis, delivery, timing, and character development. Competitors may portray one or multiple characters. No props or costumes may be used. Performances can also include an introduction written by the student to contextualize the performance and state the title and author.

Impromptu:

Impromptu speaking is an individual event that involves a five to seven minute speech with a characteristically short preparation time of one to two minutes. The speaker is most commonly provided with their topic in the form of a quotation, but the topic may also be presented as an object, proverb, one-word abstract, or one of the many alternative possibilities. While specific rules and norms vary with the level of competition, the speeches tend to follow basic speech format, and cover topics that are both humorous and profound.

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 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.

Program of Oral Interpretation:

Each student delivers a program of thematically-linked selections of literary merit, chosen from two or more genres of literature and writing (most common will be readings from Prose, Poetry, and Drama). A substantial portion of the total time must be devoted to each of the genres used in the program.

Rules: https://khssl.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/poi-1-0.pdf 

Lincoln Douglas:

In this one-on-one format, students debate a topic provided by the Association. Lincoln-Douglas Debate topics range from individual freedom versus the collective good to economic development versus environmental protection. Students may consult evidence gathered prior to the debate but may not use the Internet in round. An entire debate is roughly 45 minutes and consists of constructive speeches, rebuttals, and cross-examination.

Policy Debate:

A two-on-two debate that focuses on a policy question for the duration of the academic year, this format tests a student’s research, analytical, and delivery skills. Policy Debate involves the proposal of a plan by the affirmative team to enact a policy, while the negative team offers reasons to reject that proposal. Throughout the debate, students have the opportunity to cross-examine one another. A judge or panel of judges determines the winner based on the arguments presented.

Public Forum:

Public Forum Debate involves opposing teams of two, debating a topic concerning a current event. Proceeding a coin toss, the winners choose which side to debate (PRO or CON) or which speaker position they prefer (1st or 2nd), and the other team receives the remaining option. Students present cases, engage in rebuttal and refutation, and also participate in a “crossfire” (similar to a cross-examination) with the opportunity to question the opposing team. Often, community members are recruited to judge this event.