Speech
Present a prepared topic to an audience within a time limit.
Judged on: Content, delivery, language, confidence, time.
Tip: Memorise the opening and closing; rehearse with a timer.
Competitions
Types of school speaking competitions
Know what each format asks for before you prepare — most students lose marks on the rubric, not the words.
Debate
Argue for or against a motion.
Judged on: Logic, evidence, rebuttal, poise.
Tip: Prepare both sides so you can predict the opposition.
Declamation
Deliver a famous speech in the original speaker's spirit.
Judged on: Interpretation, expression, memory, voice modulation.
Tip: Study the original delivery, then make the emotion your own.
Elocution
Recite a passage with precise pronunciation and expression.
Judged on: Clarity, diction, pronunciation, rhythm.
Tip: Mark pauses and stressed words on your script.
Anchoring
Host an event and hold the programme together.
Judged on: Fluency, energy, presence of mind, coordination.
Tip: Prepare link lines and two backup fillers for delays.
Assembly Hosting
Lead the morning assembly with announcements and segments.
Judged on: Clarity, discipline, timing, tone.
Tip: Write a running order and check names beforehand.
News Reading
Read news bulletins in a neutral, professional tone.
Judged on: Pronunciation, pace, neutrality, eye contact.
Tip: Practise reading unfamiliar names and numbers aloud.
Poetry Recitation
Recite poetry with rhythm and feeling.
Judged on: Expression, rhythm, memory, emotion.
Tip: Respect the line breaks; do not rush the silences.
MUN
Represent a country in a simulated UN committee.
Judged on: Research, diplomacy, policy accuracy, negotiation.
Tip: Read your country's actual position papers and UN voting record.
Presentation
Explain a project or topic, often with slides.
Judged on: Structure, visuals, clarity, Q&A handling.
Tip: Slides support you — never read them out.