1. Novice Reading

• Format: Performances of a short story by beginners - often children's books.

• Duration: Typically 5-7 minutes.

• Focus: Emphasizes clarity, emotion, and expressive reading from a written piece.
  First year students will be required to compete in their first 2 tournaments under novice reading. 
   

2. Children's Literature

• Format: Performance of literature written for children.

• Duration: 5-7 minutes.

• Focus: Engaging and expressive delivery aimed at younger audiences.
  Students that placed in Novice Reading in a previous year, must compete under the Children's Literature category.
   

3. Declamation

• Format: Recitation of a famous speech or an excerpt from a historical figure or public address. (Think Ted Talk)

• Duration: 6-10 minutes.

• Focus: Delivery and interpretation of existing works.
   

4. Expository Speaking

• Format: Informative speech explaining a topic or concept.

• Duration: 6-8 minutes.

• Focus: Clear explanation & structure
   

5. Impromptu Speaking

• Format: A speech delivered with minimal preparation time (usually 7 minutes total: 3 minutes prep, 4 minutes speaking).

• Focus: Quick thinking and effective delivery on a randomly assigned topic.
   

6. Informative Speaking

• Format: A speech aimed at educating the audience on a specific topic.

• Duration: 8-10 minutes.

• Focus: Clarity, structure, and depth of knowledge on the subject with visual aids.
   

7. Original Oratory

• Format: A self-written and delivered speech, usually persuasive.

• Duration: 10 minutes.

• Focus: Strong argumentation, clarity, and compelling delivery on a social or political issue.
   

8. Humorous Interpretation

• Format: A comedic performance of a piece, often involving multiple characters.

• Duration: 8-10 minutes.

• Focus: Comedy, timing, and expressive delivery.
   

9. Poetry/Prose

• Format: Performance of either poetry or prose.

• Duration: 8-10 minutes.

• Focus: Expressive interpretation and emotional connection with the piece.