It’s course selection season! Do you have an extra elective spot? Do you want a class with lots of learning AND lots of fun? Do you want to be part of one of Vestavia’s most prestigious academic teams? Join speech!
So, what is speech?
Like debate, it is a competitive event involving public speaking. It has more emphasis on delivery than debate. Unlike debate, you do not argue with opponents, so it is less stressful.
Speech competitions have different events that span a diverse range of styles and skill sets. As you might imagine, events like original oratory involve giving a pre-written speech about a topic you are passionate about. Informative speeches are similar to original oratories, but you can make pretty posterboards for your presentation! I’ve heard speeches about high heels, figure skating scandals, and AI art!
In other events, you have limited time to prepare a speech on a topic revealed in round. Impromptu is a popular event where you plan and deliver a speech in 7 minutes. In my favorite event, extemporaneous, you research a recent topic (usually political) in 30 minutes to deliver a 7-minute speech.
If you are an actor or want to try acting, there are many interpretation events where you bring pre-written texts to life with your voice and movement. You can go delulu over your fictional boyfriend in humorous interp or make everyone cry with dramatic interp. In the unique black binder events, you weave many sources together and use a small black book as a prop to convey a theme.
What will you learn in speech?
In addition to public speaking, you will learn to confidently express yourself and find your unique voice. According to many speech alumni, speech helps you with class and college interviews. I don’t need to prepare for my presentations because I can speak on the spot! Your hard work will be rewarded with an honors credit and fun, supportive classmates.
What do current speech students think?
Captain ZhuZhu Wang (the OG extemp goddess) loves how “speech provides a no-judgement zone where everyone feels safe sharing their ideas!” Her favorite parts of speech include crushing rival schools in competitions, bringing home the Ws, and the tight-knit community.
Avery Allen (a rising dramatic interp champ) loves “the environment, the people, going to tournaments and seeing all the different pieces.” Everyone is friendly in class but bitter rivals on Block Blast!
So, if you want to have fun, make friends, and snag a few trophies along the way, it’s time to join speech!
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