• Informative Speaking: An original, factual speech by the student on a realist subject to fulfill the general aim to inform the audience. Audio‐visual aids may or may not be used to supplement and reinforce the message. Multiple sources should be used and cited in the development of the speech. Minimal notes are permitted. Maximum time is 10 minutes.
• Persuasive Speaking: An original speech by the student designed to inspire, reinforce, or change the beliefs, attitudes, values or actions of the audience. Minimal notes are permitted. Maximum time limit is 10 minutes.
• After Dinner Speaking: An original, humorous speech by the student, designed to exhibit sound speech composition, thematic, coherence, direct communicative public speaking skills, and good taste. Minimal notes are permitted. Maximum time limit is 10 minutes.
• Communication Analysis/Rhetorical Criticism: An original speech by the student designed to offer an explanation and/or evaluation of a communication event such as a speech, speaker, movement, poem, poster, film, campaign, etc., through the use of rhetorical principles. Manuscripts are permitted. Maximum time limit is 10 minutes.
• Impromptu Speaking: An impromptu speech, substantive in nature, with topic selections varied by round and by section.
• Extemporaneous Speaking: Contestants will be given three topics in the general area of current event, choose one, and have 30 minutes to prepare a speech that is the original work of the student. Maximum time limit for the speech is 7 minutes. Limited notes are permitted.

Individual Events (Interpretation):

• Prose, Poetry, and Dramatic Interpretations: An original or selections of prose/poetry/dramatic material, respectively, which may be drawn from more than one source. Use of manuscript is required. Maximum time is 10 minutes including introduction.
• Program Oral Interpretation: A program of thematically‐linked selections of literary merit, chosen from two or three recognized genres of competitive interpretation (prose/poetry/drama). A substantial portion of the total time must be devoted to each of the genres used in the program. Use of manuscript is required. Maximum time limit is 10 minutes including introduction.
• Dramatic Duo: A cutting from a play or plays of literary merit, humorous or serious, involving the portrayal of two or more characters presented by two individuals. No costumes, props, lighting, etc., are to be used. Presentation is from the manuscript and the focus should be offstage and not to each other. Maximum time limit is 10 minutes including introduction.