Speech and Debate
Mr. Stanton
Semester 1, 2014-2015
Course Description
Speech and Debate is a performance class which involves preparation for
competitive oral interpretation, speaking, and debate events. Students will be
introduced to children’s literature; prose, poetry, humorous, dramatic, and duo
interpretation; duet acting; oratory; extemporaneous and impromptu speaking;
Public Forum Debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, and Student Congress. Students
will prepare and present events for tournament competition. In addition to regular
class assignments and tests, students must compete in two interscholastic speech and
debate competitions.
Grading
Grades will be awarded for
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preparation
research
critiquing and helping peers
making practice speeches
in-school debates
in-school performances.
tests of current events, background knowledge, and the principles of
persuasive communication
Every student will be required to prepare two different events (for example, Public
Forum Debate and Poetry Interpretation). Students are encouraged to try several
events during the season.
Students will have individual preparation plans based on their goals. Students who
make credible progress towards their competition goals will be awarded good
grades.
Competitions
Competitions are held on Saturdays, with a few exceptions. We leave Williston-Elko
in time to be at the competition site by 8:30. When we travel to the Greenville area,
we need to leave at 5:15 A.M. and we don’t get back until 9:30 or 10:00. Charlestonarea competitions call for a 6:15 A.M. departure, and we usually return about 8:45.
Students will need to bring enough money to buy food at the competition and get
something to eat on the way home (usually fast food).
Dress
Some events call for “dress casual” attire, while others (such as Lincoln-Douglas
debate) require more formal wear. Students will be advised well ahead of time on
the best wardrobe selections. No one should have to buy any special clothes.
Fees
Students will be required to pay an entry fee of $10.00 for each competition.
Students will need to pay for their own meals.
Cancellations
If a student doesn’t participate in a competition when the school has paid his fee, the
school will be charged an additional entry fee as a penalty.