Seattle University High School Speech and Debate Tournament
2023 — NSDA Campus, WA/US
Oral Interp (aka Interp Read)
Event Description:
ORAL INTERP: In Round 1 and 3, using a selection or selections of literature, students will provide an
interpretation of Poetry with a time limit of 10 minutes, including introduction. Poetry is characterized by
writing that conveys ideas, experiences, and emotions through language and expression. Students may
choose traditional poetry, often characterized by rhyme or rhythm, or nontraditional poetry, which often has
a rhythmic flow but is not necessarily structured by formal meter (meter is a beat, pattern, or structure, such
as iambic pentameter). Students may not use prose, nor drama (plays), in this category. Students must use
a manuscript in Poetry, which typically consists of a small three-ring binder with page protectors. Reading
from a book or magazine is prohibited. In Round 2 and Finals, using short story, parts of a novel, or other
published work of prose, students will provide an interpretation of one or more selections with a time limit of
10 minutes, including introduction. Typically a single piece of literature, Prose can be drawn from works of
fiction or non-fiction. Prose corresponds to usual (ordinary/common) patterns of speech and may combine
elements of narration and dialogue. Students may not use poetry, nor drama (plays), in this category.
Students must use a manuscript in Prose, which typically consists of a small three-ring binder with page
protectors. Reading from a book or magazine is prohibited. Time: ten (10) minutes with thirty seconds (30)
grace.