Speech Events

Speech is the art of public speaking. Poise, confidence, presentation, and eloquence are valuable skills that shape our lives and the way that we belong in the world. Being able to speak in public is not simply a matter of rote memorization and recitation; it is actually a journey of character and training to be able to project yourself to an audience.

The three categories of speech are Spontaneous, Original (Platform), and Interpretation. Each category highlights certain elements that showcase different aspects of public speaking.

Below, you will find descriptions of each of the three categories and the events that come under them.

Interpretive Events: Speeches adapted from literature that will be acted out, drama, humor or both.

• Original Interpretation (OI): An edited version of a documented speech previously delivered by someone (ex: a political figure)
• Dramatic Interpretation (DI): An edited version of a novel or play involving a narrative tragedy
• Humorous Interpretation (HI): An edited version of a novel or play involving a comical or humorous narrative
• Thematic Interpretation (TI): A speech involving several pieces of literature surrounding a certain theme, woven together to create a single piece
• Original Prose and Poetry (OPP): An original speech written by the speaker taking a form of a narrative, often dramatic or humorous
• Duo Interpretation (DUO): A dramatic and/or comical speech performed by two partners

More details on each event can be found here.

Limited Prep/Spontaneous Events: Speeches delivered with limited preparation

• Impromptu (IMP): A 5-minute speech about a randomly assigned topic, either a quote, current events, abstract concept, or concrete object, delivered after two minutes of preparation
• Extemporaneous (EXTEMP):
  • International Extemporaneous: A 7-minute speech about an international current events topic, delivered after 30 minutes of preparation
  • Domestic Extemporaneous: A 7-minute speech about a domestic current events topic, delivered after 30 minutes of preparation

​More details on each event can be found here.

Platform/Original Events: Original speeches written entirely by the speaker

• Original Oratory (OO): An original speech written by the speaker about a relevant topic of choice, often concerning the community and/or the world
• Original Advocacy (OA): An original speech written by the speaker about a relevant topic of choice, concerning current policies or laws
• Expository (EXPOS): An original speech written by the speaker providing information about a certain topic in extensive detail

​More details on each event can be found here.