THE OFFICIAL HOME OF
THUNDER SPEECH THEATER & DEBATE
WHAT IS SPEECH?
Speech events in speech and debate are designed to test a student's ability to communicate effectively, whether through prepared presentations or impromptu performances. These events can include informative speaking, where students deliver well-researched talks on a specific topic; persuasive speaking, which aims to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint; and interpretative events, such as Dramatic Interpretation (DI) or Humorous Interpretation (HI), where students perform pieces of literature or drama. The primary focus in speech events is on the speaker's delivery, creativity, and ability to connect with the audience, often requiring strong voice modulation, body language, and emotional expression.
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In speech, participants often compete individually and are judged on their ability to convey their message clearly, effectively, and memorably. The goal is not just to inform or entertain but to engage the audience on a deeper level, whether through the use of compelling storytelling in interpretation events or by presenting well-structured arguments in persuasive speeches. Speech events challenge students to refine their public speaking skills, think critically about their content, and deliver their performances with confidence and impact.
SPEECH EVENTS
Below each event, you will find the
captain and their contact information.
Platform
Dinodh Hettiwatte
Platform Speaking involves delivering a prepared speech on a specific topic, typically focusing on informative or persuasive content. Students have the opportunity to showcase their public speaking skills by thoroughly researching their topic and presenting it in a clear, engaging, and structured manner. This event is ideal for students who enjoy crafting and delivering speeches that inform or persuade an audience on issues they are passionate about.
Extemporaneous
Noah Schenkman
Extemporaneous Speaking is a limited prep event where students are given a topic, usually related to current events, and a short amount of time to prepare a well-organized and insightful speech. Competitors must quickly analyze the topic, develop a clear argument, and deliver a polished speech without the use of extensive notes. This event is ideal for students who excel in quick thinking, have a strong grasp of current affairs, and can articulate their ideas confidently under time pressure.
Impromptu
Mina Le
Impromptu Speaking is a limited prep event where students are given a topic and just a few minutes to prepare and deliver a speech on the spot. The challenge lies in quickly organizing thoughts, creating a coherent structure, and presenting the speech with clarity and confidence, all within a very short time frame. This event is ideal for students who are quick thinkers, enjoy spontaneity, and can effectively communicate ideas with minimal preparation.
Interpretation
Annabella Delgado
Interpretation (Interp) events, including Dramatic Interpretation (DI) and Humorous Interpretation (HI), involve performing selected pieces of literature with a focus on expressive delivery. Students bring characters and stories to life through their expressive delivery. Participants select a piece, or a combination of pieces, and use voice, facial expressions, and gestures to convey the emotions and narrative to the audience. Interp is ideal for students who enjoy acting and storytelling, as it allows them to showcase their creativity and emotional range.
Duo/Duet
Duo/Duet events feature two students working together to perform a piece of literature, often involving dialogue between characters. The challenge lies in the coordination and chemistry between the partners, as they must seamlessly interact with each other while maintaining the integrity of the narrative. This event is perfect for those who enjoy performing with someone else and want to explore character dynamics in a shared storytelling way.
Black Book
Jasmine Guttierez
Blackbook events involve the performance of literature, such as prose, poetry, or drama, where students bring characters and stories to life through their expressive delivery. It has the use of a script, or "black book," from which students "read" while performing their piece. The focus is on vocal delivery and interpretation, as the use of the black book limits the amount of physical movement and gestures allowed. This format is ideal for students who excel in vocal expression and enjoy interpreting literature in a more traditional, script-focused manner.
Original Spoken Word
Frida Garcia
Original Spoken Word is an event where students perform their own written pieces, often focusing on personal experiences, social issues, or cultural commentary. This event allows for a high level of creativity and self-expression, as students craft and perform their own original work in a way that is both impactful and engaging. It is perfect for those who have a passion for writing and performing, and who want to use their voice to share powerful, original messages with an audience.
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