Rules/Format
IMPROMPTU SPEAKING COMPETITION RULES
Each speaker will draw three topics, which may be a word, a quotation or a phrase - anything not specifically related to current events.
The speaker will have two minutes to prepare, during which time he/she may make notes, but these notes may not be used during the speech.
Wit, humor, philosophy, sentiment, absurdity are equally welcome. Although a speaker may make reference to the words or beliefs of others, whether fictional or real characters, he or she must speak in his or her own person for the substantial majority of the speech.
Judges will be looking for agility of thought, for some "meat on the bones,” for organizational ability - and above all, for the ability of each speaker to communicate with style and originality.
The speech must last at least three minutes but no more than five. Severe time penalties will be incurred for speaking for less than two minutes 45 seconds or more than 5 minutes 15 seconds.
It is strictly understood that competitors will not use prepared material for this event.
PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE FORMAT
| Prime Minister | 5 minutes |
| Member of the Opposition |
8 minutes |
| Minister of the Crown |
8 minutes |
| Leader of the Opposition * |
8 minutes |
| Prime Minister |
3 minutes |
Parliamentary Rules available at http://www.daneis.org/rules.htm