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Communication & Public SpeakingPresentationPopular

Public Speaking

Prepared speech. Year-specific topic.

Official guidelines

About this event

Public Speaking competitors deliver a 4-6 minute prepared speech on an annually assigned topic. Judging covers content quality, research depth, organization, and delivery. A memorable opening hook, strong use of evidence (statistics, stories, expert quotes), clear transitions, and a compelling call-to-action conclusion separate high scorers from the rest.

What's on the test

Speech structure (3-5 main points)Researching and citing evidenceOpening hooks (story, shocking statistic, rhetorical question)Transitions and signpostingPersuasive techniques (ethos, pathos, logos)Eye contact and audience connectionVocal variety (rate, pitch, volume, pause)Gestures and movementClosing with impact and call to action

Study resources

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