General Statement
Public speaking is a systematic, practical, verbal communication, which is basically oral but involves gestures and audiovisual supplements, intended to enlarge or alter listeners’ knowledge or comprehension, or to influence their attitudes and behavior. Bryant, D. and Wallace, K., Fundamentals of Public Speaking.
Criteria for Oratorical Presentations
1. Accomplishment of the goal of informing or persuading the listener
2. Time limit requirements (3 minutes)
3. Speeches over 3 minutes will automatically be disqualified
4. Appropriateness of the subject matter in keeping with the contest theme
5. Quality of delivery
a) Voice (sufficient loudness level, adequate and varied rate of speech,
clear diction, appropriate pitch, and good phrasing)
b) Body language (gestures, eye contact)
c) Pronunciation
d) Speeches should be extemporaneous (not memorized)
6. Creativity
7. Research and support for speaker’s thesis
Grading
100 points maximum for each speech
5 points maximum for each category
1 - 5 points accorded each speaker in each category
Speakers will receive time warnings with 2 minutes remaining, 1 minute remaining, 30 seconds remaining, 15 seconds remaining, and stop.
Ties are decided by the addition of an alternate judge’s evaluation sheets.
Categories
1. Adaptation to audience/occasion
2. Clear thesis statement
3. Effectiveness of introduction
4. Organization of main points
5. Clear, smooth transitions
6. Use of supporting data
7. Use of appropriate language
8. Effective dynamic conclusion
9. Incorporation of theme
10. Creativity in content, and
Development
11. Overall preparation
DELIVERY
12. Appropriate rate
13. Eye contact with audience
14. Appropriate volume
15. Varied vocal dynamics
16. Acceptable pronunciation/
Articulation
17. Varied appropriate gestures
18. Appropriate use of note cards
19. Spontaneity and enthusiasm
20. Physical appearance/poise
Sponsored by The Communications Department
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