- Speeches should be between six and eight minutes in length. A contestant will not be disqualified for a shorter or longer presentation, but will be penalized.
- Presentations should not be read; students may, however, use notes.
- The orator combines the organizational and delivery skills necessary to raise public speaking to an evocative performance.
- Judges evaluate speaking performance in the following categories:
- Focus and appropriateness of response to topic
- Clear Residual Message
- Organization – logic and clarity
- Adapt to the Audience
- Content – Arguments with adequate details and source citation as well as variety in types of evidence
- Language and Style – clarity and vivid use of language
- Delivery – physical [eye contact, gestures, posture, movement, vitality, facial expression, use of lectern] and vocal [variety, loudness, rate, pronunciation, articulation]
- Overall effectiveness – accomplishment of purpose, clear residual message and, interesting development of message which is adapted to the audience.
Logistics for the Final Round:
- There is a preliminary round, scheduled at least one week before the date of the final contest. Six or seven contestants will be chosen to continue into the final round, based on the preliminary judges’ scoring.
- Coaches from the Communication Department are available the week before the contest.
- Order of presentation will be determined by a drawing before the contest begins.
- In the event of a tie, both winners will be awarded.
- The selection of a winning presentation is the decision of the judges and is final.