Extemporaneous Speaking
An original speech on a current events topic selected by the student not to exceed seven minutes in length. Ordinarily, the student is provided with 30 minutes in which to prepare the speech. Limited notes are permitted, but memorized delivery is preferred. The student usually had three topics to choose from and must select one on which to speak. The paper on which the selected topic is written should be handed directly to the judge to authenticate the topic.
Extemporaneous speaking places a premium on eloquence and expertise in analyzing current events. Topics may be of either an international or domestic nature. Frequently, tournaments vary topics round by round to insure diversity. Students may carry extensive files into the preparation room, and are free to consult printed material when preparing the speech. Dictionaries or quote books may be a useful source of introductory material. A premium is placed on students who skillfully cite a wide variety of credible information on their chosen topic. Particular merit is accorded to students who are able to deliver direct quotes from their sources, or who are able to paraphrase key remarks. Credit should be given to speakers who present new information, or who demonstrate expertise in analyzing complicated subject matter. Speakers should take care to answer all parts of the question, or to address each aspect of the topic. Credit should be given to speakers who demonstrate superior time management abilities and who do not slight one or more aspects of their analysis as a result of time limitations.
The body of the speech should be effectively organized, having an interesting introduction, a statement of the exact question or topic, a preview of the main points of the speech, a statement of why the question or topic is noteworthy or significant, two or three main areas of analysis, followed by a concluding section that reviews the main points of the speech and ends appropriately. All principles of effective presentation should be demonstrated. Clear transitions should be provided so that the organizational structure of the speech is cumulatively reviewed and previewed. Effective language should be utilized. In addition, the non-verbal elements of the speech should be effectively demonstrated, such as direct and communicative eye contact and good posture and poise. Gestures should be motivated, comfortable, and enhance, not distract from the presentation. The speech should be free of breaks in fluency and credit should be given for speaking without notes. Poor enunciation or incorrect grammar should be penalized. In short, the speaker should make effective use of sound public speaking conventions.
Judges should provide speakers with hand signals to show the amount of time remaining in the speech. Speeches that do not use enough time or those that are in excess of 7 minutes should be penalized according to the severity of the infraction.
The field and stadium were named for longtime coach and athletics director Lloyd Hollingsworth at Homecoming in 1983.
