Criteria for Judging:

 

Introduction

• Immediately engages the audience's attention
• Relates the topic to self and to audience
• States the main idea of speech and previews main points

 

Organization / Development of ideas

• Displays the main ideas in a logical and memorable manner
• Development of the speech supported by relevant examples, verbal illustrations, facts, or analogies, which justify or elaborate to make the main ideas clearer
• Points are bridged by smooth transitions that enhance clarity and blend ideas to present a unified whole

 

Originality

• Student makes creative effort to share new and unique ideas
• Imaginative and engaging material

 

Vocabulary / Grammar

• Creative, colorful, powerful language choices
• Appropriate use of words that relate to the purpose of the speech and to the particular audience hearing the speech
• Language is vivid, specific, and definite, promoting clear understanding of subject
• Proper sentence structure with appropriate inflections

 

Conclusion

• Review of main points
• Effective, creative “bang” ending

 

Thought Provoking

• Shares insightful ideas that stimulate interest or thought
• Challenges audience to explore new ideas

 

Composure/Confidence

• Speaks with enthusiasm and assurance, showing interest in the audience and confidence in their reactions.
• Avoids distracting mannerisms and phrases, (“Um” etc.)

 

Body language / facial expression / eye contact

• Spoken naturally with minimal use of cue cards (NO reading!)
• Gestures appear natural and are synchronized with the voice
• The audience’s eyes are engaged and facial expressions are used for emphasis and effect

 

Voice and tone quality

• Voice is flexible, moving from one pitch to another for emphasis
• Rate of speech and volume vary to create interest and impact
• Voice can be clearly heard, with the words easily understood

 

Timing

Speech delivered within the 3-5 minute time limit