Event Guide
Interpretation Events
Solo and partner performance events acting out published plays, literature, and screenplays.
Humorous Interpretation (HI)
A 10-minute solo performance of a comedic script using physical actions and vocal characterization without props or costumes.
Dramatic Interpretation (DI)
A 10-minute solo dramatic performance from a play, book, or script conveying deep emotion and narrative conflict without props.
Storytelling (STO)
A 5-minute animated performance of a children's story using a chair, character voices, and lively physical expressions.
Poetry
A 7-minute theme-based portfolio performance of published poems or song lyrics read using a small manuscript binder.
Prose
A 7-minute performance of fictional or non-fictional literature read directly from a manuscript binder.
Duo Interpretation
A 10-minute paired dramatic or comedic scene performed without props, physical contact, or direct eye contact between partners.
Program Oral Interpretation (POI)
A 10-minute thematic performance blending poetry, prose, and drama using a manuscript binder as a central performance element.
Platform Events
Original speeches written by students to persuade, inform, inspire, or educate audiences.
Expository (EXP)
A 5-minute self-written speech designed to inform and educate the audience on a unique topic without visual aids.
Informative (INF)
A 10-minute self-written informative speech explaining a complex concept or topic using custom visual aids.
Original Oratory (OO)
A 10-minute self-written persuasive speech addressing a societal problem and proposing a meaningful solution.
Original Prose & Poetry / Spoken Word
A 5-minute self-written creative performance or spoken word poem highlighting personal perspective and message.
Declamation (DEC)
A 10-minute performance adapting and delivering a historically significant speech previously given by another public figure.
Limited Preparation Events
Fast-paced events testing real-time reasoning, structure, and analysis on current events or topics.
Impromptu
A 7-minute event (2 minutes prep, 5 minutes speech) structuring a logical argument from a random prompt or quotation.
Extemporaneous Speaking
30 minutes of prep to deliver a 7-minute speech answering an international or domestic political/economic current event question.
Spontaneous Argumentation (SPAR)
A fast-paced limited-prep debate format featuring quick speeches, cross-examination, and dynamic rebuttals.
Debate Formats
Head-to-head argumentative options ranging from value philosophy to policy debate.
Lincoln-Douglas (LD)
A 1-on-1 value debate centered on moral, philosophical, and ethical principles across bi-monthly national topics.
Public Forum (PF)
A 2-on-2 partner debate focused on accessible, real-world current affairs and policy issues with interactive crossfire rounds.
Congressional Debate
A mock legislative assembly where students author, debate, amend, and vote on realistic bills and resolutions.
Parliamentary (Parli)
A 2-on-2 limited-prep debate testing rapid logic, persuasive arguments, and real-time points of information.