Overview of Events Offered
Below are brief descriptions of the events we offer here at Lassiter. If you would like all of the specifics (rules, format, etc.) for any event, you can find them at the NFL website here: http://www.nflonline.org/CoachingResources/EducationalHandouts
Lincoln Douglas Debate: Philosophical, Logical argumentative debate. The topic changes every two months. Students debate one-against-one. This debate is very formal and professional, and your research is very structured- almost formulaic.
Public Forum Debate: Evidence-based debate about current events topics. The topic changes every month. Two two-man teams face off, in tag-team style. The topics are usually things that are of interest to the public, and your research should be written in a public-friendly format, easy to understand.
Original Oratory: Students write a creative 10-minute, logical, evidence-supported speech to memorize and present for a small audience. The speech can deal with a societal problem or issue and an exploration of possible solutions, or it can be a call to action for a particular cause. It can also call attention to the life of a person in history. Speeches can be serious or humorous.
Extemporaneous Speaking: Students have 30 minutes to research and prepare a 7-minute speech about a current events question. Students use materials that we bring with us to tournaments (magazines, newspapers, and web resources) and are allowed to use an index card with notes.
Impromptu Speaking: Students have 7 minutes total, to prepare a brief speech and deliver it. Topics are random and varied. Speeches can draw from real information or personal opinions and experiences.
Interpretation: Students memorize and act a 10-minute excerpt or cutting of a play, book, or other work of literature. Selections can be dramatic or humorous, students can act alone or with a partner. No props or costumes are allowed.