This is a mock congress session. You'll get the bills that you will be discussing about a week beforehand (they will involve current events; things you might read about in 'the big three': Newsweek, Time, and the US News and World Report) and you research the topics (note that speakers who simply read pre-written speeches at the tournament are penalized by the judges). At the competition, you will spend your day in 1.5-2 hour sessions in which people give speeches (3 minute max) pertaining to the bill at hand (speeches are pro or con and should incorporate other competitior's comments). It's set off from the other events: whereas with most events, you go to four rounds (either giving your speech four times or debating the same issue with different people four different times), Congress is in session for 1.5-2 hour chunks all day.
Lincoln Douglas Debate
You get a topic for a two month period, that you research and plan arguments for. This topic will be value based, meaning you will be debating the ethics and morality of an issue. In each round you debate a different person. You will have to argue both sides (affirmative and negative) throughout four different rounds. You should plan your introductory speech beforehand, but you'll have to do your rebuttals on the spot, according to your opponent�s attacks and counterattacks. You will also have to cross-examine your opponents (ask them a series of questions).
Example Resolution (topic): In a just social order, the principle of equality ought to be valued above that of liberty.
Public Forum Debate
This will be a new event for our team this year. There are two types (team and individual). Both begin with a coin toss, determining which side of the resolution the parties will defend (affirmative or negative). The speakers should speak extemporaneously (not from prewritten speeches). Each 4-minute "constructive" speech is followed by a crossexamination period where speakers ask and answer alternately. Next, each side presents a 2-minute rebuttal. Then during the grand crossfire period, all speakers may cross-examiune and answer. It's a free for all (this is scary/exciting: even the judge can ask questions)! At the end, each side gives a 1-minute "final focus" speech summarizeing the main issue from that side's point of view.
Dramatic and Humorous Interpretations
You will present an 5-10 minute scene, or compilation of scenes (8+ minute ones are generally judged higher) from a play, movie or book (you need to play multiple characters). It must be memorized. Emphasis is on vocal interpretation of the different characters, which should be easily distinguishable through unique gestures or verbal clues. Limited movement, and no props, costumes, or makeup. This event involves presenting the multiple stories in a compelling way, using poise, voice, facial expression, gesture, inflection, emphasis, pronunciation, and enunciation. The two events differ in that:
In Humorous, the competitor's range of voices and postures should add to the quality of the performance and allow for a wide range of humor. Try to make the judge laugh.
In Dramatic, the winning competitior presents the most compelling story, with the most believable and interesting characters. It should have a more serious theme.
Duo Interpretation
Two students perform a memorized script. It must be from a play, story, or novel published in a book or magazine. It may either be humorous or dramatic, and each contestant should carry about half the lines. Participants cannot look at each other: rather, they stand next to each other and look in front of them. No physical or eye contact is allowed. No props. Time limit is 5-10 minutes but 8+ minute scripts are often rewarded. The winners of this event are the ones that present multiple characters effectively. Though both dramatic and humorous scripts are allowed, dramatic scripts are rarely used and, for that reason, stand out.
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