Event Descriptions

Debate

Stoa Website Rules and Resolutions: https://stoausa.org/debate-events/

Lincoln Douglas Value Debate

Sample Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--ltivnnuGA&t=1523s

Team Policy Debate

Sample Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTytPIZhbEs&t=317s

Parliamentary (Parli) Debate

Sample Video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pRNdMs74zY&t=77s

Speech

Limited Preparation Speeches

Apologetics

Description: In Apologetics, the competitor is given four (4) minutes to prepare a persuasive and reasoned speech that defends a tenet of the Christian faith and explains why that principle matters.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhcD4UYyHUg

Mars Hill Impromptu
Description: In Mars Hill Impromptu, the competitor uses books, movies, and other genre to discuss the appeal and impact of the theme(s) within the topic, holding them up in light of Christian truth found in the Bible. This event is intended for competitors 14 and  older or with the consent of the parents due to mature themes in some topics.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyUQsrGmhqs

Extemporaneous

Description: In Extemporaneous speaking, the competitor answers a given question based on recent events in the news. The competitor researches national and international current events and may create reference files of newsworthy information. Extemporaneous speech should be regarded as a demonstration of personal knowledge on the topic, as well as an original synthesis of numerous sources.

Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVd4i5KRXRo

Platform Speeches

Original Oratory

Description: An Original Oratory is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, on a topic of the competitor’s choice. The purpose of this informative speech is to explain, describe, or expose the topic.
Video: https://wwwhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oy4fb_jZ3Os.youtube.com/watch?v=mbvgWdaEDOY

Expository

Description: An Expository is a prepared speech written by the competitor which explains and illustrates a topic through both words and visuals (e.g. illustrated boards, physical props, digital and electronic presentations, or any combination).

Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_mNqxlsiD0

Persuasive

Description: A persuasive speech is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, which advocates a specific position or course of action.
Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N2dDzOZYF4



Interpretative Speeches

Open Interpretation

Description: In Open Interpretation, selections may be in the whole range from dramatic to humorous genres, including narrative storytelling, single voice monologues, thematic compilations, or self-written pieces.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0b3zs1toxo

Dramatic Interpretation

Description: In Dramatic Interpretation, the competitor, using a play, short story, or other published work, performs a selection with a spotlight on character development and depth which captivates and moves the audience.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7Nt5gQFmU0&t=60s

Humorous Interpretation

Description: In Humorous Interpretation, the competitors tell relatable stories using humor as a device to connect with the audience from a single published work. Stand-up comedy, or telling a series of jokes without a corresponding plot, is not Humorous Interpretation.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oy4fb_jZ3Os

Duo Interpretation