300 Words: Forensics (Not the Science!)

by Christian Powell

The act of public speaking is not an easy one, even seeming impossible to some. But the Forensics team at Delone Catholic makes it appear simple. The team recruited new members this year, including five freshmen and one junior.

With a wide variety of debaters in Lincoln-Douglas and Congress, the speakers in Humorous Interpretation, Informative, and Prose and Poetry, the team was well prepared and represented at several tournaments. But even with great preparation, the challenges of public speaking can have unexpected twists and turns.

Speaking aloud to a group is a difficult act, but is easily practiced by simple activities, such as practice speaking to a wall.

Calming nerves can be difficult but something as simple as taking a deep breath can help to prepare to speak in front of strangers and simply deliver what was practiced.

In team policy debate, you must have well-structured and thought out responses and prepared to take the affirmative or opposition on a variety of topics. The arguments must contain evidence and be organized in delivery.

In speech, humorous interpretation is meant to test a student’s comedic ability and delivery; students generally choose a selection from a short story, play, or other work to perform.

Informative speeches are required to be 10 minutes in length, and the speaker informs the audience on a topic of his or her choosing.

Dramatic interpretation requires a student to choose a selection from a published work and develop a character through the conveyance of emotion. No costumes or props are permitted; the interpretation must rely on delivery.

Speech and debates provides the opportunity to improve confidence, develop writing skills, and convey thoughts clearly.

Forensics is enjoyable because it has so many aspects to it and no matter what your talent you can find a place to shine.