How Do You Win Speech Competitions (FAQ)

1. How Do You Win Speech Competitions?

Winning speech competitions requires strategic planning, effective communication skills, and a clear understanding of how judging works. Here are the essential steps:

• Sign up for tournaments through reputable portals like forensicstournament.net, speechwire.com, or tabroom.com. Ensure you have judges lined up to cover your entry, as most tournaments require each school or team to supply volunteer judges.
• In preliminary rounds, speakers are ranked from first to last. The goal is to accumulate as many first-place rankings as possible to advance to elimination rounds and ultimately win.
• Judges typically look for strong ethos (credibility), pathos (emotional connection), and logos (logical argument). Review the official judging criteria on the tournament’s ballot to understand what specific elements they will grade you on—such as vocal clarity, body language, organization, and persuasiveness.
• Stand out with a memorable angle, fresh evidence, or a compelling personal story. Incorporating unique insights sets you apart from competitors delivering more “standard” speeches.
• ModernBrain has coached students to over 1,000 first-place finishes by refining delivery, honing content, and developing confidence. Leveraging expert feedback ensures your speeches consistently meet and exceed judging standards.

2. What Is Declamation?

Declamation is a public speaking event where you deliver someone else’s speech—such as a TED Talk, political address, or victim impact statement—to showcase your interpretation skills. Typically, middle and high school students perform a 10-minute version, while elementary students may have a 5-minute limit. In leagues like the National Catholic Forensics League (NCFL), Declamation is offered exclusively to 9th and 10th graders; however, it’s often even more popular at the middle school level.

• Choose a Powerful Piece
  Opt for a speech with a clear message and a strong emotional arc, ensuring it resonates both with you and your audience.
• Build a Personal Connection
  During your introduction, clearly articulate why you selected this piece—judges appreciate genuine enthusiasm and insight.
• Focus on Delivery
  Concentrate on vocal variety, pacing, and facial expressions. The goal is to recreate the original speech’s intent while adding your unique interpretation.

ModernBrain has a strong track record in Declamation: in the final round of the Middle School Tournament of Champions, four of the six finalists, including the champion, were ModernBrain students. You can watch their outstanding performances here.

3. What Is Dramatic Interpretation?

Dramatic Interpretation (often called “DI”) is a 10-minute performance event for middle school and high school speech competitions. In DI, students deliver a dramatic monologue—without the use of props, costumes, or additional on-stage help. The goal is to fully embody the characters and emotions of the chosen piece through vocal variation, physicality, and emotional depth.

• Characterization
  Portray distinct characters convincingly. The sharper your transitions between characters (when more than one is featured), the more compelling your performance.
• Emotional Resonance
  Heavy themes like racism, loss, or trauma are common in DI. Strive for authenticity and vulnerability to create a moving experience.
• Power of Message
  Use clear storytelling to bring out the central theme—make sure the audience connects to the deeper meaning behind your piece.
• Acting and Performance Skills
  Demonstrate command of facial expressions, voice, body language, and pacing. Judges will be evaluating how you navigate the emotional arc of the piece.
• Unique Interpretation
  While the text may stay the same, your personal take on the characters and conflict can set you apart.

ModernBrain’s approach to Dramatic Interpretation has been proven successful: we had two finalists, including the champion, in the Middle School Tournament of Champions final round. Watch these standout performances here: ModernBrain DI Final Round.

4. What Is DUO Interpretation?

Duo Interpretation—often shortened to “Duo”—is a 10-minute speech event where two performers bring a script to life without props or costumes. Whether the selection is dramatic, humorous, or a blend of both, success in Duo hinges on strong chemistry between partners and a clear, purposeful message.

• Teamwork & Blocking
  Both partners must coordinate their movements (also known as “blocking”) to enhance the storyline. Strategically using physical space and positioning can highlight pivotal moments and keep the audience engaged.
• Script Selection
  Look for a piece that can fit effectively into 10 minutes and still maintain a cohesive beginning, middle, and end. A strong plot with a clear message will captivate judges and audience members.
• Emotional Range
  While Duo may involve comedic scenes, it can also tackle serious themes. Being comfortable portraying various emotions in sync with your partner can leave a lasting impact.
• Vocal & Physical Contrast
  Each actor should develop distinct character voices and mannerisms, ensuring that the transitions between different characters within the same piece are clear and compelling.

ModernBrain’s coaching in Duo Interpretation has proven successful on the national stage. Watch one of our championship-winning coach's performances here: ModernBrain National Champion Duo.

5. What is Expository Speaking?

Expository Speaking (often called “Expos”) is a supplemental speech event that typically lasts 5 minutes. Unlike persuasive speeches, the purpose of Expos is to entertain and inform, rather than to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint.

• Uniqueness of Message
  Your chosen topic should present fresh ideas or insights that captivate your audience.
• Novelty of Information
  Judges reward well-researched content that goes beyond common knowledge.
• Delivery Style
  Engaging storytelling, clear vocal variety, and polished body language help make your presentation memorable.
• Research Quality
  Credible sources and fact-based explanations demonstrate thorough preparation.

ModernBrain coaches have both earned and coached national champions in Expository Speaking. Check out this champion performance from one of our coaches' students: Expository National Champion

6. What Is Extemporaneous Speaking?

7. What Is Humorous Interpretation?

Humorous Interpretation (often called “HI”) is a 10-minute individual speech event designed to showcase comedic timing, character work, and imaginative storytelling—all performed without the use of props or costumes. Competitors adapt scripts to deliver a polished piece that highlights their unique performance skills.

• Character Transitions (Pops)
  A hallmark of HI is the performer’s ability to instantly “pop” from one character to another. Smooth, well-defined transitions impress judges and keep the audience engaged.

• Quality of Script
  Whether you select a comedic play, short story, or another source, your script must lend itself to humor while containing enough depth for a captivating 10-minute performance.

• Expressive Blocking
  Even without props or costumes, your movement on stage (blocking) should be dynamic and purposeful, adding dimension to the storyline and comedic impact.

• Acting & Comedic Timing
  Judges look for an actor who can skillfully alternate pacing, facial expressions, and vocal inflection to land jokes and keep the audience laughing.

ModernBrain’s coaching in Humorous Interpretation has produced numerous finalists and champions. Watch this ModernBrain middle school finalist at the Tournament of Champions to see a stellar HI performance: ModernBrain HI Finalist.

8. What Is Impromptu Speaking?

Impromptu Speaking is a fast-paced speech event where you have 2 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to speak on a given prompt. Topics can range from abstract nouns (like “courage” or “friendship”) to current events, quotations, or even concrete objects. The challenge is to craft a structured, engaging speech on the fly—without sounding overly rehearsed or canned.

• Delivery & Fluency
  Judges focus on your vocal presence, eye contact, and ability to avoid excessive filler words or stumbles.
• Topicality & Examples
  Your examples and anecdotes should directly relate to the prompt you’re given, showcasing quick thinking and relevance.
• Structure & Clarity
  Even under time pressure, aim for a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Smooth transitions help keep your speech coherent.
• Authenticity & Spontaneity
  Relying on memorized anecdotes can make your speech feel stale. Be truly present in the moment—engage with the prompt in a fresh, genuine way.

ModernBrain’s coaching emphasizes creativity and on-the-spot adaptability. Here’s a former national champion, coached by ModernBrain, demonstrating these skills: ModernBrain NIETOC Champion.

9. What Is Informative Speaking?

Informative Speaking is a 10-minute memorized speech event designed to educate and entertain—rather than persuade—on a specific topic. Speakers typically use visual aids to enhance clarity and audience engagement.

• Original Topic & Personal Connection
  Stand out by choosing a unique subject that resonates with your personal or cultural background, or shed new light on a familiar topic. This authenticity helps you captivate both judges and audiences.

• Strong Research
  Comprehensive research—especially if it includes original findings—demonstrates credibility. Cite reputable sources and incorporate statistics, anecdotes, or expert opinions to substantiate your information.

• Memorized & Polished Delivery
  Since the speech is 10 minutes long and must be fully memorized, polish your pacing, vocal variety, and body language to keep listeners engaged. Confidence and poise are essential for a professional impression.

• Effective Use of Visual Aids
  Incorporating posters, slides, or handouts can bolster understanding and create visual interest. Select visuals that complement your content without overwhelming the presentation.

ModernBrain coaches emphasize connecting topics with genuine passion and conducting thorough research. Watch this speech for inspiration: National-Level Informative Speech.

10. What is Original Oratory?

Original Oratory (often shortened to “OO”) is a 10-minute, memorized, and persuasive speech event. Also known as Persuasive Speaking, it requires participants to address a social issue or problem and then propose a potential solution. The best Oratories resonate with their audience on a personal level—mixing strong evidence with heartfelt storytelling.

• Persuasive Structure
  Clearly outline the problem, examine its causes, and provide a workable solution. Organize your points so that each section logically flows into the next.
• Relatability & Originality
  Choose a topic that you can uniquely address—perhaps through personal anecdotes or specialized knowledge. Judges appreciate either hyper-specific subjects or broader issues approached from a fresh angle.
• Delivery & Presence
  Maintain strong eye contact, vocal variety, and clear articulation. A polished, confident stage presence elevates your credibility and helps persuade the audience.
• Thorough Research
  Back up your argument with reliable sources and relevant data. High-quality, cited evidence solidifies your points and demonstrates expertise.

ModernBrain’s commitment to individualized coaching has produced exceptional results in Original Oratory. We had the champion and two finalists in the Middle School Tournament of Champions. Watch their outstanding performances here: ModernBrain OO Final Round.

11. What Is Original Spoken Word Poetry?

Original Spoken Word Poetry is a 5-minute, memorized event that requires performers to present originally written poetic work. It often highlights deeply personal themes, resonating with audiences through vivid language and strong delivery.

• Personal & Powerful Theme
  Use personal stories, experiences, and emotions to forge a genuine connection with your audience. Topics can be intimate, social, or cultural, but authenticity is key.
• Poetic & Literary Devices
  Incorporate techniques like metaphor, rhyme, rhythm, and alliteration to add depth and musicality. Vary sentence lengths and structures to maintain engagement and emphasize key points.
• Engaging Delivery
  Focus on vocal variety, pacing, and clear enunciation to bring your poem to life. Use expressive gestures and facial expressions to underscore important moments.

ModernBrain encourages poets to explore their creativity and personal narratives through Spoken Word Poetry. Watch this ModernBrain middle school student—a national showcase finalist—demonstrate the power of a heartfelt Spoken Word performance: ModernBrain Spoken Word Finalist.

12. What Is Poetry Interpretation?

Poetry Interpretation is a 5-minute, supplemental category that allows speakers to bring poetic literature to life through a cohesive performance. Competitors typically use a black binder (often called a “black book”) both as a prop and as a means to hold or reference their chosen poems.

• The Black Book
  Serve as both a physical prop and a place to showcase your text. Use page turns, placement, and subtle gestures to reinforce emotional shifts in the poetry.

• Thematic Unity
  Often involves weaving together multiple poems under a single theme or central message. Make sure each poem contributes to a cohesive narrative or argument.

• Personal Connection & Impact
  Demonstrate how the poems resonate with you—whether through life experience, identity, or values. Authentic emotion can captivate judges and audiences alike.

• Delivery & Characterization
  Employ vocal variety, facial expressions, and purposeful body language to animate the text. Show distinct changes in tone or pacing for different parts of the piece.

• Clarity & Cohesion
  Maintain a clear structure so the audience follows your narrative thread from start to finish. Keep the focus on how these poems unite to form one powerful, cohesive message.

ModernBrain’s coaching emphasizes thematic depth and strong performance skills. Watch this national finalist, coached by ModernBrain, for an example of outstanding Poetry Interpretation: ModernBrain Poetry Finalist.

13. What Is Programmed Oral Interpretation?

Programmed Oral Interpretation (often shortened to “POI”) is a 10-minute performance event that merges various genres—such as articles, plays, poetry, and prose—into a single, cohesive narrative. By weaving different sources together, competitors deliver a powerful thematic statement supported by distinct characters, compelling language, and clear structure.

• Multi-Genre Composition
  Select and combine excerpts from drama (plays, musicals, or film scripts), poetry, prose, and articles to form a unified program centered on one overarching theme.

• Characterization & Blocking
  Use vocal variety, facial expressions, and purposeful movement to distinguish each character or source. Effective blocking brings focus to emotional shifts and pivotal moments.

• Powerful Message
  Craft a clear thesis or thematic statement that runs through the entire performance. Each excerpt should contribute to a deeper understanding of the core idea.

• Clarity & Structure
  Organize your pieces in a logical sequence so the audience can follow the evolving narrative. Smooth transitions and signposting between excerpts help maintain coherence.

• Personal & Topical Connection
  The best POI pieces resonate on a personal or social level. Show why this theme matters to you—and why it should matter to your audience.

ModernBrain’s approach to POI coaching helps students find impactful selections and master delivery. Here’s a Middle School National Champion performance, coached by ModernBrain: ModernBrain POI Champion.

14. What Is Prose Interpretation?

Prose Interpretation is a 5-minute, supplemental event where performers use a black binder to hold and reference literature. Competitors typically present a single story or narrative from a prose source—such as a novel, short story, or literary essay—focusing on bringing the text’s characters and emotional arc to life.

• The Black Book
  Acts as both a practical reference and a prop. Thoughtful page turns, positioning, and subtle movements can add emphasis and drama.

• Single Narrative Structure
  Choose an engaging piece with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Building toward a strong climax ensures audience investment in the storyline.

• Characterization & Emotional Range
  Convey distinct voices, personalities, or perspectives using vocal variety and facial expressions. Whether it’s humorous or dramatic, authentic emotion keeps the audience engaged.

• Connection & Message
  Show how the narrative resonates with you and why it matters. A memorable “takeaway” or message helps your performance stand out.

• Literary Source
  Must be taken from a prose work such as a novel, short story, or published nonfiction piece. Ensure your cutting remains cohesive and highlights the text’s most compelling moments.

ModernBrain’s coaching emphasizes thoughtful piece selection and dynamic delivery. Check out this nationally ranked Prose Interpretation coached by ModernBrain: ModernBrain Prose Performance.

15. What Is SPAR/Spontaneous Argumentation?

SPAR (short for “Spontaneous Argumentation”) is a rapid-fire speech format that, while not recognized as a national event at the high school level or at many major tournaments, remains a popular practice activity—especially in middle school (MS) and elementary school (ES) programs. Some high school (HS) students also engage in SPAR for fun or skill development.

• Format & Time Structure
  2 minutes to prepare. 2 minutes to argue as the Affirmative. 2 minutes to argue as the Negative. 2 minutes of cross-examination. 2 minutes each for closing statements (Affirmative and Negative).
• Topic Selection
  Competitors may be given one to three prompts. Each debater or team typically chooses one topic to debate.

Judges often rank participants on logic, clarity, persuasiveness, and spontaneity. Charisma and delivery style also factor heavily into the overall score. Some versions allow or encourage light research beforehand, while others strictly emphasize improvisation.

ModernBrain coaches regularly incorporate SPAR in their curricula to develop quick-thinking and effective argumentation. Watch these students, coached by ModernBrain, in a SPAR match: ModernBrain SPAR Debate.

16. What Is Storytelling?

Storytelling is a 5-minute supplemental event where competitors interpret someone else’s words, typically aiming the performance at a children’s audience. While you can incorporate a chair as a single prop, success relies on the performer’s ability to bring the story to life through engaging vocal variety, expressive movements, and a clear, age-appropriate message.

• Intended Audience
  Aim your storyline, language, and tone toward children. Strive for clarity, simplicity, and relatability.
• Characterization
  Use distinct voices, facial expressions, and body language. Vary your pitch and pacing to create an immersive experience.
• Use of a Chair (Single Prop)
  Sit, stand, or move around the chair to convey different scenes or moods. Employ subtle prop work without overshadowing the story.
• Clear, Engaging Message
  Ensure the plot and moral of the story are easily understood. Select or adapt a piece that resonates with young listeners.
• Ease of Understanding
  Keep the performance straightforward, avoiding overly complex language. Maintain a strong narrative flow from beginning to end.

ModernBrain’s coaching emphasizes building confidence and creativity in Storytelling. Watch this Middle School National Showcase Finalist, coached by ModernBrain, for a heartwarming example of Storytelling: ModernBrain Storytelling Finalist.