40th Annual Meeting of Department Oratorical Chairpersons

Transcription

1 The American Legion 40th Annual Meeting of Department Oratorical Chairpersons The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program - A Constitutional Speech Contest. The American Legion Americanism and Children & Youth Division P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, IN th Annual National Americanism Conference September 25 27, 2009 Indianapolis, Indiana Phone: Fax: mbuss@legion.org

2 40 th ANNUAL MEETING OF DEPARTMENT ORATORICAL CHAIRPERSONS 11 th ANNUAL NATIONAL AMERICANISM CONFERENCE INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA September 25 27, 2009 The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program A Constitutional Speech Contest. Friday, September 25, 2009 Noon 6:00 p.m. Conference Registration Judy Mosley (IN), Program Secretary Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Lower Lobby Saturday, September 26, :30 a.m. Conference Registration Judy Mosley (IN), Program Secretary Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Meridian West, Lower Lobby 8:00 a.m. Conference Photograph Bass Photos Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Meridian West, Lower Lobby 8:15 a.m. Call to Order Ralph Bozella (CO), Conference Chairman Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Meridian West, Lower Lobby Invocation, POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony & Pledge of Allegiance Remarks; Self Introductions; Conference Objectives Ralph Bozella (CO), Conference Chairman Welcome & Greetings Joseph E. Caouette, Jr. (NH), Chairman National Americanism Commission Americanism Updates William Pease (IN) Director, A/C&Y Division Review of the 2009 Contests Local, Department, and National Michael D. Buss (IA), Assistant Director, A/C&Y Division 9:15 a.m. Oratorical College (Session 1) How To Conduct the Oratorical Contest Michael D. Buss (IA), Assistant Director, A/C&Y Division 10:00 a.m. Break 10:15 a.m. Oratorical College (Session 2) Tabulation & Tie breaking Procedures & Practical Exercises Michael D. Buss (IA), Assistant Director, A/C&Y Division 11:00 a.m. Practical Review Excel Contest Scoring and Tabulation Program (Revision 2) Michael D. Buss (IA), Assistant Director, A/C&Y Division 11:30 a.m. Lunch (On your own) 1:00 p.m. Panel Discussion Keys to a Successful and Thriving Department Oratorical Program

3 2:00 p.m. Break 2:15 p.m National Finals Contest Arrangements and Planning Michael D. Buss (IA), Assistant Director, A/C&Y Division 3:00 p.m. Break 3:15 p.m. Open Forum; Questions and Answers Recess 7:00 p.m. Reception Honoring Program Chairpersons and Volunteers Hosted by S. A. Van Dyk, Inc. Meridian Ball and Circle Suites Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Lower Lobby Sunday, September 27, :30 a.m. Catholic Mass: Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Meridian West, Lower Lobby 7:30 a.m. Protestant Worship Service: Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Meridian Center, Lower Lobby 8:00 a.m. Continental Breakfast Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel Lower Lobby adjacent to Meridian Ballroom 9:00 a.m. Call to Order Ralph Bozella (CO), Conference Chairman Panorama Ballroom, 21 st Floor, Radisson City Centre Hotel Post Everlasting James Conway (MA and ); Vernon Henrichs (MI ); M. Edward Cook (NY ); Theodore Doty (NY ); and Frank Kosanda (ND ) Conference Action Items; Staff Follow Up Michael D. Buss (IA), Assistant Director, A/C&Y Division For the Good of The American Legion; Closing Remarks; Benediction; Adjourn Ralph Bozella (CO), Conference Chairman

4 ORATORICAL CONTEST EXAMINATION 1. Eligible participants in The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program A Constitutional Speech Contest shall be: a. Citizens of the United States. b. Lawful permanent residents of the United States. c. Either a or b. 2. The must not consume less than three minutes or more than five minutes for delivery. a. Extemporaneous topic b. Prepared Oration c. Selected Topic d. Assigned Topic 3. The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program A Constitutional Speech Contest was initiated in 1938 to: a. Help combat the influence of nazism and communism among young people in the United States. b. Illustrate The American Legion s support of the United States Constitution. c. Develop a deeper knowledge and understanding among high school students of the Constitution of the United States. d. Satisfy a need to dispense scholarship money to college bound high school seniors. 4. A contestant should not be told: a. Where the timers are seated. b. Who the other contestants are. c. Where the judges are seated. d. Where the holding room is located. 5. The numbered time card should be held up: a. Never b. Fifteen seconds prior to the minute. c. Five seconds after the minute. d. On the minute.

5 2 6. The assigned topic should be drawn: a. After the last speaker has given his/her prepared oration. b. The night before the contest. c. Prior to the last contestant s prepared oration. d. Immediately prior to the contest. 7. The number of assigned topics is: a. Eight b. Six c. Two d. Four 8. If a tie exists in the total points scores on the judge s scorecard, the judge should be asked to: total a. Score both contestants the same on the Record of Choice. b. Make adjustments in his/her scoring so that no two contestants have the same point score. c. Consult with the other judges to determine which contestant should be ranked above the others. d. Leave the room and flip a coin. Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5

6 3 Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5 f. Impossible to determine with the information provided. Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5 f. Impossible to determine with the information provided.

7 4 Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5 f. Impossible to determine with the information provided. 13. Which professions are among those recommended by the National Americanism Commission to be included on the judging panel? a. Members of the clergy b. Members of the media c. Educators d. All of the above 14. A contest facility should not have: a. A United States flag. b. Adequate parking spaces. c. An adequate public address system for contestant use. 15. Following the contest, the speech teacher of one of the contestants disputes the outcome of the contest and demands to see the judges scorecards. As contest chairman, you should: a. Meet with the speech teacher in a private room to review the scorecards. b. Arrange for the teacher to meet with the judges to discuss the scoring. c. Announce to the audience that a protest has been filed and that the judges and tabulators are to meet to review the scorecards with the speech teacher. d. Indicate to the speech teacher that the judges scorecards are the property of The American Legion and policy dictates that they are not to be released to the public.

8 5 16. Midway through Contestant No. 2 s prepared oration the fire alarm sounds, prompting an evacuation of the building. The alarm proved to be false. As contest chairman, what do you do now? a. Declare the entire contest null and void and start over. b. Resume the contest at the point that it was stopped. c. Allow Contestant No. 2 to start over. d. Alter the speaking order by moving Contestant No. 2 to last and resume the contest with Contestant No. 3. e. Call your Department Chairman. 17. Prior to your contest, one of the contestants becomes ill and is hospitalized. The contestant cannot compete as scheduled, but could possibly compete the next day. What should you do? a. Postpone the contest to the following day. b. Hold the contest at the hospital. c. Make arrangements for the ill contestant to compete in another contest at a later date. d. Conduct the contest as scheduled. 18. It is permissible for the judges to sit together in the contest facility during the competition. a. True b. False 19. It is required that the judges use the Scratch Tally Sheets and then transfer their scores to the scorecards while in the tabulation room. a. True b. False 20. It is permissible for the person conducting the contest to use a podium. a. True b. False 21. It is recommended that an invocation and closing prayer be given during the contest. a. True b. False 22. Tabulation of the judges scorecard must occur in the contest auditorium. a. True b. False

9 6 23. The decision of the judges is final. a. True b. False 24. Contestants may have in their possession a copy of their Prepared Oration in the First Holding Room. a. True b. False 25. Judges are permitted to downgrade a contestant up to a maximum of 15 points for failure to speak on the Constitution. a. True b. False 26. Contestant No. 3 uses 5 minutes 0 seconds for his/her Assigned Topic. How many points are assessed against their Assigned Topic score? a. One point b. Two points c. Zero points d. Ten points

10 All Contests Begin at 9:45 a.m. Quarter Final Contest 1 4/10 (winner to SF 1) Room 222 Alaska District of Columbia Missouri North Dakota South Dakota Utah Quarter Final Contest 2 4/10 (winner to SF 1) Room 226 Alabama Connecticut France Indiana Rhode Island Virginia Quarter Final Contest 3 4/10 (winner to SF 1) Room 232 Kansas Massachusetts New Hampshire Oregon Tennessee Wisconsin Quarter Final Contest 4 4/10 (winner to SF 2) Room 102 Delaware Maine Maryland Montana New Jersey Washington Quarter Final Contest 5 4/10 (winner to SF 2) Room 206 Georgia Hawaii Michigan Mississippi Nebraska New York Quarter Final Contest 6 4/10 (winner to SF 2) Room 236 Illinois Minnesota Ohio Puerto Rico Texas Vermont Quarter Final Contest 7 4/10 (winner to SF 3) Room 208 Arizona Arkansas Iowa Pennsylvania West Virginia Wyoming Quarter Final Contest 8 4/10 (winner to SF 3) Room 216 California Idaho Louisiana Mexico Nevada South Carolina Quarter Final Contest 9 4/10 (winner to SF 3) Room 231 Colorado Florida Kentucky Oklahoma New Mexico North Carolina 2010 HIGH SCHOOL ORATORICAL CONTEST PAIRINGS April 10 11, 2010 University Place Center and Hotel IUPUI All Contests Begin at 3:45 p.m. Semi Final Contest 1 4/10 (winner to National Final) Room 137 Semi Final Contest 2 4/10 (winner to National Final) Room 118 Semi Final Contest 3 4/10 (winner to National Final) Room 132 National Finals Contest 4/11 Auditorium 10:00 a.m.

11 2009 Conference Objectives Educate Need to educate our contest staff on how to conduct the contest. Correct and proper tabulation procedures are a MUST! Contest Uniformity & Consistency Need to ensure that our contests are the same for everyone, every time Continue to Improve Contest Participation 2009 Contests in Review

12 2009 Contests In Review First time ever the national finals contest was Webcast Live via YouCastr, Inc. Over 120 watched the contest and based on the s and comments from those that watched this first attempt was an overwhelming success!! Consideration will be given to expanding the Webcasts to include the semi-final contests for Contests In Review Eligibility ibilit Question Contestants must either be legally domiciled within or attend an educational institution within the Department that they enter competition (Rule Clarification 2006)

13 2009 National Finals Contest In Review National Champion -- Andrew Dykstal (IN) (Senior) Home-schooled 2nd Place -- Caroline Heydinger (VT) (Senior) 3d 3rd Place -- Werner Ferrone (FL) (Senior) Home-schooled 2009 National Finals Contest In Review Semi-Finalists -- Leanne Livingston (GA) Senior Heidi Erbsen (IL) (Junior) Christina Sauer (KY) (Junior) Gregory Prusiewicz (MI) (Senior) Kristina Lee (MT) (Junior) Zachary George (OH) (Senior) Home schooled Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, New Mexico, Rhode Island, &Tennessee

14 2009 National Finals Contest In Review 8 repeat contestants t t from 2008 National Finals Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, & South Dakota 53 Department Finalists competed in the National Finals Mexico DID NOT have a Department Contest Saturday evening contestant pizza-party and social mixer was once again a HUGE SUCCESS!! 2009 National Finals Contest In Review The rewards are enormous in terms of memories, friendships, knowledge gained & $cholarships received Goal of the contest operation is invisibility therefore letting the contestants shine through

15 2010 National Finals Contest Planning & Arrangements 2010 National Finals Contest Dates April 9-11 University Place Conference Center and Hotel Travel date is Friday, April 9 Certification of Department t winner due to National Headquarters by MARCH 8!!

16 2010 Contest Administrative Requirements Certification of Department Winner reporting form will be mailed mid November 2009 to both the Department Chairman and the Adjutant Other contest forms that need to be completed by the Department Winner will be ed to the winner upon receipt of Department Winner form. This procedure has worked EXTREMELY WELL with little delay or follow-up in obtaining the necessary forms from the Department Winners Contest Administrative Requirements Will continue having the contestants submit both a hard copy and digital copy of their prepared oration; failure to submit the complete text of the prepared oration (no notes, outline, etc.) will result in the disqualification of the contestant Digital copy can be in any word processing format -- preferably PC on a CD/DVD Can also to mbuss@legion.org

17 2010 National Finals Contest Travel Requirements Contestants will agree by signing the travel consent form that they have to arrive on Friday, April 9 Travel arrangements are made by National Headquarters, not the Department, not the Contestant 2010 National Finals Contest Travel Requirements We will try to fly contestant and chaperone from the airport as designated on the Certification of Winner form; however if a more reasonable airfare can be obtained from a near-by larger airport we will use this airport for travel and reimburse mileage

18 2010 National Finals Contest Travel Requirements We can make airline reservations for other family members, etc. that desire to attend the National Finals Additional form is included on the back of the Certification of Winner reporting forms & contestant instructions to capture this information 2010 National Finals Contest Travel Requirements A 400-mile limit/arrive by 4:00 p.m. requirement continues to be in place for those contestants that desire to drive we are flexible with this requirement on a case-by-case basis (APPROVAL MUST STILL BE GRANTED BY (APPROVAL MUST STILL BE GRANTED BY NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS TO THOSE THAT DESIRE TO DRIVE!) This a National Americanism Commission mandated requirement

19 2010 National Finals Contest Travel Requirements Contestants MUST be accompanied by a CHAPERONE!! (Standing Resolution) We still pay $18.00/day per diem to BOTH the contestant and chaperone ($4.50 per quarter day) Mileage rate $.18 per mile to either the contestant or chaperone -- not both 2010 National Finals Contest pairing bracket drawn by the Youth Activities Subcommittee and approved by the National Americanism Commission during the 2009 Spring Meetings

20 Future Dates - National Finals April 15 17, 2011 April 13 15, 2012 April 19 21, 2013 Tie - Breaking Procedures

21 Two - Way Tie - Breaker CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS Three - Way Tie - Breaker CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS

22 Four - Way Tie - Breaker CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS Tabulation Exercises

23 Who is the Winner? CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS Who is the Winner? CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS

24 Who is the Winner? CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS Who is the Winner? CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS

25 Who is the Winner? CONTESTANTS RECORD OF CHOICE CONTESTANTS FINAL TOTAL POINTS JUDGES C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C #5 C #1 C #2 C #3 C #4 C # TOTALS Tabulation Procedures

26 Tabulation Procedures The National Americanism Commission STRONGLY recommends that Departments consider the use of the Excel spreadsheet for the scoring and tabulation of the Department Oratorical Finals Contest. Tabulation Procedures Five judges are designated as PRIMARY; the other two judges are ALTERNATES Discussion of methods to determine the primary and alternate judges Whatever method is used ensure at least two people are involved in the process!

27 Tabulation Procedures Number the judges scorecards 1 5 for the five primary judges Write a BIG A on the alternate judges scorecards!! ONLY the FIVE PRIMARY JUDGES SCORECARDS ARE USED TO DETERMINE A WINNER!!!! Tabulation Procedures Record of Choice on Judge s Score Card Highest # of Final Total Points is the 1 st place winner and so on This data is transcribed to the Tabulation Card for each respective judge in the Contestant Record of Choice Block

28 Tabulation Procedures Contest Tabulation Process -- WILL be done in private NO CONTESTANTS, COACHES, PARENTS in the same room Don t sacrifice accuracy for contest expediency!! Oratorical College

29 Oratorical College Department Final Contests -- SHALL CONFORM with National Contest procedures, rules & regulations It is strongly gyrecommended that ALL contests follow the National Contest procedures, rules & regulations to include the Assigned Topic Presentation Oratorical College Recent Rule Changes, Additions & Clarifications -- Eligibility (Clarification ): Contestants must either be legally domiciled within or attend an educational institution within the Department (State) that they enter competition. Contestants can enter competition through only one Department.

30 Oratorical College Recent Rule Changes, Additions & Clarifications -- Home-schooled (Clarification ): The state accreditation requirement has been deleted. Accreditation differs from state to state (if even offered). Oratorical College Recent Rule Changes, Additions & Clarifications -- The Prepared Oration (Rule Change ): The Prepared Oration must be on some aspect of the Constitution of the United States with emphasis on the duties and obligations of a citizen to our government. The oration given in the Department Contest must be given in the National Contest.

31 Oratorical College Recent Rule Changes, Additions & Clarifications -- The Prepared Oration & Assigned Topic (Clarification 2006; Penalty 2009): The singing of songs is NOT PERMITTED and will result in IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION. The contestant may QUOTE a verse(s) of a song provided proper attribution is made. THIS IS NOT AMERICAN IDOL Oratorical College Recent Rule Changes, Additions & Clarifications -- Contest Regulations (Addition ): The use of any type of electronic/digital data gathering, receiving and/or transmitting equipment in any form by contestants or members of the audience is prohibited.

32 Oratorical College Recent Rule Changes, Additions & Clarifications -- Use of the English Language for the Prepared Oration and Assigned Topic It is acceptable to utilize or incorporate short phrases of a foreign language in order to develop the argument, establish a point, etc. It is to be understood that the vast majority of the Prepared Oration and/or Assigned Topic must still be delivered in the English Language. (Approved Ruling ) Oratorical College Recent Rule Changes, Additions & Clarifications -- Contestant MUST give both their Prepared Oration and Assigned Topic Discourse in order to receive scholarship moneys they are entitled to. (Clarification 2007)

33 Oratorical College Eligible Participants -- CITIZENS OF or LAWFUL PERMANENT RESIDENTS of the UNITED STATES (Foreign Nationals are NOT eligible to compete at any level of the contest) 3 National Finalist are INELIGIBLE for further participation at ANY LEVEL of competition NOTE: Department Winners CAN repeat! Oratorical College P d O ti d th A i d Prepared Oration and the Assigned Topic Discourse MUST be given in the ENGLISH LANGUAGE! Prepared Oration and the Assigned Topic Discourse MUST be spoken NOT SUNG!

34 Oratorical College National Finals Contest Scholarships 1st -- $18,000 2nd -- $16,000 3rd -- $14,000 Quarter Finals -- $1,500 Semi Finals -- $1,500 Oratorical College National Finals Contest Scholarships May be used to attend any college or university in the United States or possession Eight years to use the scholarship after it has been awarded

35 Oratorical College Prepared Oration -- Contestants MAY have a copy of their Prepared Oration in the First Holding Room They will leave the copy behind after commencing the contest!! Oratorical College Prepared Oration -- Eight to ten minutes in length Assigned Topic Discourse -- Three to five minutes in length

36 Oratorical College Props -- The United States flag is considered to be a prop if contestant were to grope or grasp the flag. Simply pointing at the flag is NOT considered using it as a prop. Oratorical College Props Dressing in a costume is considered to be a prop No medals from previous competitions

37 Oratorical College Judges -- WILL be seated in DIFFERENT LOCATIONS in the contest facility WILL NOT be identified in advance to the Contestants!! Oratorical College Tools to help you -- The Contest on a DVD How to Conduct the Oratorical Contest National Finals Contest Public Service Announcements (PSA s) The Indianapolis Experience Rules Brochure Chairman s Guide Promotional Brochure Program WebPage National Staff Do not hesitate to call, write, or send an

38 Oratorical College Printed program publications Due to budgetary considerations the amount of publications printed has been significantly REDUCED over the past six years. Considerations -- Use the Promotional Brochure to interest potential contestants and schools. Use the Contest Rules Brochure for actual contestants. Oratorical College Printed program publications The Rules Brochure, Chairman s Guide and the Promotional Brochure are bulk-shipped to the Department Headquarters by the middle of June. It is the responsibility of the Department Headquarters to distribute as they see fit.

39 National Americanism/Oratorical Conference Dates Sept , 2010 Sept , 2011 Sept , 2012

40 9/2/2009 The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program Contest Purpose The contest was developed primarily to instill a better knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States in high school students. Other objectives include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly, l and the preparation for acceptance of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. 1

41 9/2/2009 Each contestant will appear two times. 1 st time for their Prepared Oration. 2 nd time for the Assigned Topic. They will be introduced by number only. All will speak on the same assigned topic to be drawn just before the last contestant gives their Prepared Oration. Multi appearances permit an opportunity to re-evaluate and reconsider first impressions & compare the contestants. Pencils with erasers are provided so adjustments can be made as speeches unfold and proper scoring can be made. This allows judges to evaluate their impressions of the speakers & to compare speakers with the others. 2

42 9/2/ Each contestant will speak 8-10 minutes on their Prepared Oration. 2. Each contestant will speak 3-5 minutes on the Assigned Topic selected randomly for their contest. A penalty of ONE POINT is given any contestant who speaks over or under the prescribed time for each minute or fraction thereof. This penalty is determined by timers with stop watches. Judges will be told if there is any penalty and the number of points. 3

43 9/2/2009 The Prepared Oration must be on some aspect of the Constitution of the United States with emphasis on the duties and obligations of a citizen to our government. Lack of emphasis in the prepared oration and the assigned topic on the duties and obligations of a citizen to our government must result in the judges downgrading the contestant involved. 4

44 9/2/2009 A penalty of 1 to 10 points for failure to speak on the Constitution may be given by a judge if the judge feels the contestant did not speak on the constitution. Props are NOT permitted Discussion: Is saluting the flag a prop? 5

45 9/2/2009 There are two scratch tally sheets for each contestant. Prepared Oration Contains two parts: A - Content - 4 sections B - Speaking skills - 3 sections Total 70 points Scratch Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Prepared Oration A Content Score Remarks 1. Originality (12) 2. Skill in data, (12) examples 3. Logic (12) 4. Knowledge (16) B. Speaking Skills 1. Voice (6) 2. Style, language (6) Total Body action (6) Total 18 Note: Scoring System Prepared Oration A - Content - 4 items Note the four items Scratch Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Prepared Oration A Content Score Remarks 1. Originality, knowledge 2. Skill in data, examples (12) (12) 3. Logic (12) 4. Knowledge of subject Highest possible score 52 points (16) 6

46 9/2/2009 CONTENT # 1 12 points Prepared Oration 4 points Assigned Topic Originality Freshness Directness Application of knowledge on topic CONTENT # 2 12 points Prepared Oration 4 points Assigned Topic Skill in selecting: Examples Description Analogies Specific data 7

47 9/2/2009 CONTENT # 3 12 points Prepared Oration 4 points Assigned Topic Logic correctness of inference CONTENT # 4 16 points Prepared Oration 6 points Assigned Topic Comprehensive of knowledge contestant knows the subject matter 8

48 9/2/2009 Judge should rate first speaker at 9 or 10 points Max. Why? Content 1. Originality, knowledge on topic Example (12) Quotation no author given. 9 Other speakers will be better or worse - the 1st speaker sets a standard for the rest. Note: All quotations are to be indicated as such & if the quotation is more than 10 words, the author s name must be given. Example of a score on scratch tally sheet Content 2. Skill selecting examples (12) Quotation no author given. 8 9

49 9/2/2009 It is acceptable to utilize or incorporate short phrases of a foreign language into the Prepared Oration and/or Assigned Topic in order to develop the argument, establish a point, etc. Scoring System Part B - Speaking skills - 3 items What do they cover & note highest score. Scratch Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Prepared Oration B. Speaking Skills 1. Voice (6) 2. Style, (6) language 3. Body action (6) 18 points 10

50 9/2/2009 SPEAKING SKILLS # 1 6 points Prepared Oration 4 points Assigned Topic Voice and diction - pronunciation, enunciation, articulation, delivery, projection SPEAKING SKILLS # 2 6 points Prepared Oration 4 points Assigned Topic Style: language use, word arrangement, transition, word selection 11

51 9/2/2009 SPEAKING SKILLS # 3 6 points Prepared Oration 4 points Assigned Topic Body actions: poise, eye contact, t posture, gestures The purpose p of the Assigned Topic Discourse is to test: the speaker s knowledge of the subject the extent of his or her research the ability to discuss the topic as related to the basic principles of government under the Constitution. 12

52 9/2/2009 Assigned Topic Scratch Tally Sheet A - Content 4 categories B - Speaking skills 3 categories Total points? 30 points Scratch Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Assigned Topic A Content Score Remarks 1. Originality (4) 2. Skill in data, (4) examples 3. Logic (4) 4. Knowledge (6) B. Speaking Skills 1. Voice (4) 2. Style, language (4) Total Body action (4) Total 12 It is suggested - A Judge should use the first two or three minutes of the contestant speech to rate the contestant s speaking skills. This allows the remainder of the time to listen for content. 13

53 9/2/2009 Scoring method 2 nd column Shows maximum points for each category. Hand written number (or the 2 nd figure) is the judge s score. Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Assigned Topic A Content Score Remarks (4) 1. Originality, knowledge 2 2. Skill in data, examples (4) 3 3. Logic (4) 4 4. Knowledge of subject (6) 5 In order to remember the individual speakers judges should note on each contestant - some color of clothing and/or gender of the contestant - in order to recall the individual speaker when tallying the scores. 14

54 9/2/2009 Scoring System Review? How many Scratch Tally Sheets are there for each contestant? Prepared Oration Assigned Topic Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Prepared Oration A Content Score Remarks 1. Originality (12) 2. Skill in data, (12) examples 3. Logic (12) 4. Knowledge (16) B. Speaking Skills 1. Voice (6) 2. Style, language (6) Total Body action (6) Total 18 Scoring System How many pts. can be given for the Prepared Oration? A - Content -4 sections B - Speaking skills 3 sections Total 70 points Scratch Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Prepared Oration A Content Score Remarks 1. Originality (12) 2. Skill in data, (12) examples 3. Logic (12) 4. Knowledge (16) B. Speaking Skills 1. Voice (6) 2. Style, language (6) Total Body action (6) Total 18 15

55 9/2/2009 Review Assigned topic - What are the total points to be given? 30 points 1 st speaker sets a standard for following contestant Scratch Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Assigned Topic A Content Score Remarks 1. Originality (4) 2. Skill in data, (4) examples 3. Logic (4) 4. Knowledge B. Speaking Skills (6) 1. Voice (4) 2. Style, language (4) Total Body action (4) Total 12 What happens if a contestant fails to directly address the assigned topic? Penalty of 1 10 points for failure to speak on the Constitution and/or Down grade the content in all four areas: Originality Skill Logic - Knowledge 16

56 9/2/2009 After the last speaker judges will return here and transfer the data from the scratch tally sheets to the Judges Score Card. Then tabulate the data for each contestant. The Scratch Tally Sheets should be used HOWEVER They are not mandatory If you are comfortable entering the raw scores directly to the judge s scorecard as the contest progresses this is permissible 17

57 9/2/2009 Scratch Tally Sheet For Judges NO:1 Prepared Oration A Content Score Remarks 1. Originality (12) Skill in (12) data, examples 8 3. Logic (12) 9 4. Knowledge (16) Total Scoring System Example B. Speaking Skills 1. Voice (6) 5 2. Style, (6) language 4 3. Body action (6) 5 Total 55 Transfer any ypenalty points announced by the moderator to appropriate line. There can be no ties! Judges are encouraged to review the overall score sheet and adjust accordingly to break the tie. Contestant A. Content B. Speaking Skills Penalty pt. Time pts. Failure To speak on the Constitution To speak on the

58 9/2/2009 Bottom line Properly tally the final points!! The highest score will determine the record of choice 1 st place and so on. Be sure to sign your name and date it. A tabulator will check your figures. Initial any errors and correct the figure. Total score Contestant 1 Contestant 2 Final Pts Record 1 2 of choice Judges Signature 19

59 9/2/2009 Do not leave the room until the moderator advises that your score card has been reviewed. The decision of the Judge will be their own without consultation of the others. Judges shall refrain from discussing any phase of the contest or their judging methods with contestants, coaches, chaperones, or parents. 20

60 9/2/2009 The contestants have been briefed that if they desire their scores they will be provided to them after the weekend is over. 1. They will not be given the Scratch Tally Sheets. 2. The names of the contest judges will not be released. The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program 21

61 ORATORICAL CONTEST EXAMINATION Answer Key 1. Eligible participants in The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program A Constitutional Speech Contest shall be: a. Citizens of the United States. b. Lawful permanent residents of the United States. c. Either a or b. 2. The must not consume less than three minutes or more than five minutes for delivery. a. Extemporaneous topic b. Prepared Oration c. Selected Topic d. Assigned Topic 3. The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program A Constitutional Speech Contest was initiated in 1938 to: a. Help combat the influence of nazism and communism among young people in the United States. b. Illustrate The American Legion s support of the United States Constitution. c. Develop a deeper knowledge and understanding among high school students of the Constitution of the United States. d. Satisfy a need to dispense scholarship money to college bound high school seniors. 4. A contestant should not be told: a. Where the timers are seated. b. Who the other contestants are. c. Where the judges are seated. d. Where the holding room is located. 5. The numbered time card should be held up: a. Never b. Fifteen seconds prior to the minute. c. Five seconds after the minute. d. On the minute.

62 2 6. The assigned topic should be drawn: a. After the last speaker has given his/her prepared oration. b. The night before the contest. c. Prior to the last contestant s prepared oration. d. Immediately prior to the contest. 7. The number of assigned topics is: a. Eight b. Six c. Two d. Four 8. If a tie exists in the total points scores on the judge s scorecard, the judge should be asked to: total a. Score both contestants the same on the Record of Choice. b. Make adjustments in his/her scoring so that no two contestants have the same point score. c. Consult with the other judges to determine which contestant should be ranked above the others. d. Leave the room and flip a coin. Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5

63 3 Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5 f. Impossible to determine with the information provided. Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5 f. Impossible to determine with the information provided.

64 4 Contestant No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Judge No Using the above contest scores, which contestant should be declared the winner? a. Contestant Number 1 b. Contestant Number 2 c. Contestant Number 3 d. Contestant Number 4 e. Contestant Number 5 f. Impossible to determine with the information provided. 13. Which professions are among those recommended by the National Americanism Commission to be included on the judging panel? a. Members of the clergy b. Members of the media c. Educators d. All of the above 14. A contest facility should not have: a. A United States flag. b. Adequate parking spaces. c. An adequate public address system for contestant use. 15. Following the contest, the speech teacher of one of the contestants disputes the outcome of the contest and demands to see the judges scorecards. As contest chairman, you should: a. Meet with the speech teacher in a private room to review the scorecards. b. Arrange for the teacher to meet with the judges to discuss the scoring. c. Announce to the audience that a protest has been filed and that the judges and tabulators are to meet to review the scorecards with the speech teacher. d. Indicate to the speech teacher that the judges scorecards are the property of The American Legion and policy dictates that they are not to be released to the public.

65 5 16. Midway through Contestant No. 2 s prepared oration the fire alarm sounds, prompting an evacuation of the building. The alarm proved to be false. As contest chairman, what do you do now? a. Declare the entire contest null and void and start over. b. Resume the contest at the point that it was stopped. c. Allow Contestant No. 2 to start over. d. Alter the speaking order by moving Contestant No. 2 to last and resume the contest with Contestant No. 3. e. Call your Department Chairman. 17. Prior to your contest, one of the contestants becomes ill and is hospitalized. The contestant cannot compete as scheduled, but could possibly compete the next day. What should you do? a. Postpone the contest to the following day. b. Hold the contest at the hospital. c. Make arrangements for the ill contestant to compete in another contest at a later date. d. Conduct the contest as scheduled. 18. It is permissible for the judges to sit together in the contest facility during the competition. a. True b. False 19. It is required that the judges use the Scratch Tally Sheets and then transfer their scores to the scorecards while in the tabulation room. a. True b. False 20. It is permissible for the person conducting the contest to use a podium. a. True b. False 21. It is recommended that an invocation and closing prayer be given during the contest. a. True b. False 22. Tabulation of the judges scorecard must occur in the contest auditorium. a. True b. False

66 6 23. The decision of the judges is final. a. True b. False 24. Contestants may have in their possession a copy of their Prepared Oration in the First Holding Room. a. True b. False 25. Judges are permitted to downgrade a contestant up to a maximum of 15 points for failure to speak on the Constitution. a. True b. False 26. Contestant No. 3 uses 5 minutes 0 seconds for his/her Assigned Topic. How many points are assessed against their Assigned Topic score? a. One point b. Two points c. Zero points d. Ten points