Hi, I'm a sophomore in high school and I've been competing in Speech & Debate tournaments for 4 years now. My main events are Impromptu and Congress with experience in Parliamentary and Public Forum Debate.

General Speech

• Project your voice, use your voice to fill the space
• It's easy to speak faster when nervous, take a deep breath and speak at an appropriate pace
• Even if you're nervous or unsure of what to say, we as judges don't know that. All we know is what you share in your speech. Fake it til' you make it :)
• For however many minutes, you have the attention of everyone in the room to give your speech and say what you want to say, use that time to say something worth saying

Platform Speech

• For Impromptu or Extemp, end your speech when you run out of things to say, it's better to stop a bit early than repeat your points for an extra 30 seconds
• Try to avoid swearing in the round, in my opinion it really isn't necessary
• Try to make eye contact with the judge and/ or other audience members, it helps retain attention
• Avoid pacing back and forth or unnecessary hand gestures, move with intention and purpose

Interp Speech

• Enunciate! Make sure we can understand every word, even if it's at the emotional climax
• Change your tone and/ or voice when switching characters or story line so we can follow what's happening

Debate

• If your speech isn't going over time, include the road map in the first 10 seconds
• Try to address all of your opponents' arguments, dropping arguments usually becomes a deciding factor in the debate
• Attack your opponents' CASES, not them! It's hard to differentiate at times, but they aren't the enemy, your opponents are just competitors the same as you. Avoid insulting one-liners (No matter how well-worded they are), eye-rolling, interrupting speeches, making faces, or name-calling

Feel free to ask questions about the round before you start speaking, I'm no expert in every event but I'm happy to answer any questions to the best of my ability.

Speech & Debate is relatively formal, but don't psych yourself out. Relax, make logical arguments and/ or tell your story. Have fun! :D

Hey, I am Anusha Jeyakumar, a sophomore at Sunset High School! This is my second year competing at the high school level. I am currently competing in Radio and Prose, but I have done PF, Poetry, and DUO. Here is what I look for:

Debate -

• A little bit of spreading is ok, but try to talk in a pace where everyone can understand
• Make sure your points are clear and explain your reasoning

Speech -

• Try to develop a good storyline so that your audience can follow through
• Put emotion and dedication into the character or speech that you are presenting so that the audience can really connect with you

General -

• Be confident in yourself, everybody around you is there to support you!
• Make sure to be kind and respectful to your fellow competitors and judges

I know that all of you have put a tremendous amount of effort into making your speeches. But always remember that no matter how you do, it's the experience that counts. Most of all have fun with these experiences and try to meet new friends. I know you will do an awesome job! Have fun and good luck!

"Stop Talking - Start Speaking "

I compete in Varsity for PF (Public Forum) and Radio Commentary for Sunset High School.

For Debates :

• I am a flow person, and expect you to present your arguments clearly.
• Weigh the arguments for me.
• I can handle speed, but rushing makes me hard to follow.
• Don't ask for cards during cross, ask them after speeches.
• Frameworks: If you are using frameworks, make sure you set it up early and clearly. Don't assume the judge knows where you are coming from.
• Say what matters, don't say something to fill time up.
• Use your time wisely, no extra time will be provided.

For Speeches :

• Have a clear framework, give me a road map in the beginning to set the tone.
• If I can't understand you, I can't judge your argument, so speak clearly.
• Show me that your topic matters.
• Don't speak in a monotone voice, speak up, show your skills!
• It's ok if you stumble a bit, just act like it never happened and keep moving on.
• Make sure to make eye contact (except in some events).

In General :

• Be prepared, and act professionally!
• Respect time, and ask for Time Signals if you need it beforehand!
• Be positive and respectful
• Be Excited! This is a place where you will rise and grow (maybe trip a bit, but that's okay, it happened to me too!), So have FUNN !.

If you have queries/questions regarding my paradigm, email 515886@bsd48.org.

Hello! My name is Sahana Muthaiya and I am a student at Sunset High School.

I have experience in prose(interp), radio, and public forum debate.

Debate:I am fine with spreading as long as it is still understandable. I would prefer that you provide context for any argument made so that I can weigh in on all factors before making a decision. Be respectful to everyone in round(it will affect your speaker points).

Speech:I value good eye contact, little-to-no hesitation, and a confident tone. While doing interp, make sure to have a variety of emotions and embody your character well.

Good luck!