Jan Pizzo,
What to do now:
1. Begin finding and highlighting articles concerning important domestic and international issues from the last three months. (Original sources must be present in the file. Use the Internet, magazines and newspapers. Try to avoid editorials.)
2. File articles in easy to find categories.
3. Create an index to these articles so they can be easily retrieved.
4. Develop a short list of stories, quotes or analogies that can be applied to a number of topics.
What to do for coaching sessions:
Practice writing speeches using the format presented. (You can write in outline form, no need to write out the complete speech.) Practice putting your outline on a 3x5 card that you will be able to use for reference during your speech at novice.
Practice giving speeches. (If a coach is not available, speak for a fellow team member.)
You must answer the question asked, DO NOT SHIFT TO A PHASE OF THE TOPIC YOU MIGHT PREFER.
What to expect at a tournament:
1. You will have 30 minutes to both prepare and practice your speech. You will have a choice of three topics. You will work in the library with a monitor who will tell you when to begin and when to go to your designated room.
2. The round will only have you and the judge. BESURE you are at the room in time and that you WAIT in the hallway for the judge or someone to come out and tell you it is your turn.
3. YOU MUST GIVE THE TOPICS TO THE JUDGE. YOU MUST DESIGNATE THE TOPIC YOU PICKED.
4. You will leave the room after you are done. You will not have the opportunity to hear any competitors. Sometimes this is not the case in semi of final rounds.
5. After all preliminary rounds are complete you will learn if you advance.
Things a judge will be looking for:
1. Organization
2. Evidence
3. Answering the question
4. Following extemp. format.