Stoa Speech Categories All Speech Rules (in Zip file for download)
Interpretive Speeches In all interpretive events, competitors write, or select and analyze literature, then bring it to life through the creative use of voice, movement, and facial expression, without the aid of costumes or props.
Duo Interpretation In Duo Interpretation, two competitors create an original rendition of a story from one or more selection(s) of literature which captivates and moves the audience. Duo Interpretation Rules
Humorous Interpretation In Humorous Interpretation, the competitors tell relatable stories using humor as a device to connect with the audience from a single published work. Stand-up comedy, or telling a series of jokes without a corresponding plot, is not Humorous Interpretation. Humorous Interpretation Rules
Open Interpretation In Open Interpretation selections may be in the whole range from dramatic to humorous genres, including narrative storytelling, single voice monologues, thematic compilations, or self-written pieces. Open Interpretation Rules
Dramatic Interpretation In Dramatic Interpretation the competitor, using a play, short story, or other published work, performs a selection with a spotlight on character development and depth which captivates and moves the audience. Dramatic Interpretation Rules
Limited Preparation Speeches Competitors get a limited time to prepare for a speech on a topic that is given to them at the speech event. Preparation before the tournament is described in the event rules.
Apologetics In Apologetics, the competitor is given four (4) minutes to prepare a persuasive and reasoned speech that defends a tenet of the Christian faith and explains why that principle matters. Apologetics Rules
Extemporaneous In Extemporaneous speaking, the competitor answers a given question based on recent events in the news. The competitor researches national and international current events and may create reference files of newsworthy information. Extemporaneous speech should be regarded as a demonstration of personal knowledge on the topic, as well as an original synthesis of numerous sources. Extemporaneous Rules
Mars Hill Impromptu In Mars Hill Impromptu, the competitor uses books, movies, and other genre to discuss the appeal and impact of the theme(s) within the topic, holding them up in light of Christian truth found in the Bible. This event is intended for competitors 14 and older or with the consent of the parents due to mature themes in some topics. Mars Hill Impromptu
Platform Speeches A prepared speech, written by the competitor, with the purpose of informing, exposing, or persuading on a topic.
Expository Speaking An Expository is a prepared speech written by the competitor which explains and illustrates a topic through both words and visuals (e.g. illustrated boards, physical props, digital and electronic presentations, or any combination). Expository Speaking Rules
Original Oratory An Original Oratory is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, on a topic of the competitor’s choice. The purpose of this informative speech is to explain, describe, or expose the topic. Original Oratory Rules
Persuasive A persuasive speech is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, which advocates a specific position or course of action. Persuasive Rules
Wild Card Event Speeches New and unique speech events that are offered on a two year rotation meant to challenge competitors in their preparation and presentation skills.
Oratory Analysis 2020-2021 Oratory Analysis is a prepared presentation of a historical or contemporary speech which included an analysis of the content and the cultural impact of that speech, demonstrating an understanding of the context, the speaker, and the rhetorical elements that made it great. demonstration speech is an original work written by the competitor that explains how to do something or how something works. Props may or may not be used. Oratory Analysis Rules
Team Policy (TP) Resolved: The United States Federal Government should considerably decrease its military commitments. Stoa Team Policy Debate Rules