Welcome to the Fort Calhoun High School Speech Webpage!
If you are interested in being on the Speech Team, contact Sara Gross at sgross@ftcpioneers.org
“Speech is power: speech is to persuade, to convert, to compel.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
Students on the Speech team may compete in the following events:
Humorous Interpretation, Serious Interpretation, Duet Acting, Extemporaneous, Entertainment, Informative, Persuasive, Poetry, and Oral Interpretation of Drama. Brief descriptions of each of these events are provided below.
Humorous Interpretation
Serious Interpretation
Serious Interpretation (SI) involves reciting a play or prose that is serious in nature. (limit 10 minutes) This event allows you to explore your vulnerability and connect with others on a personal level.
Duet Acting
Two students act out a scene from a play, movie–any scene involving the dialogue of two people. Actors may play more than one character, but they may not use costumes or makeup. One table and two chairs are the only props allowed. A script is not allowed. (limit 12 min)
Extemporaneous
In this event, the speaker is given a topic on current events (either foreign or US) and has 30 minutes to 1 hour (depending upon the tournament rules) to prepare a speech, citing articles that have been gathered before the competition. (5-7 minutes)
Entertainment
In the Entertainment event, the student presents their own original speech. It is a humorous informative speech, meant to entertain the audience without mimicking professional comics. This event uses visual aids. (limit 8 minutes)
Informative
The Informative event involves an original speech meant to inform the audience on some topic. The student is encouraged, but not required, to use visual/audio media (usually posters). (limit 8 minutes)
Persuasive
The student presents an original speech on a timely subject and is expected to discuss the subject intelligently. This speech should be presented with originality, in a direct, communicative manner. (limit 10 minutes)
Poetry
In this event, the student recites a selection of poems, often chosen around a central theme. (6-8 min)
Oral Interpretation of Drama
Oral Interpretation of Drama (OID) involves 3-5 people interpreting a piece of literature or drama, using a script. No props, costumes, makeup, touching, or eye contact. (limit 15 minutes)