What is an Expository Speech?
An Expository Speech is a platform speech that “exposes" or explains a particular topic through the use of visual aids.
The speech must be an original work, scripted word for word. This is a speech to inform. The speaker describes, illustrates, or defines an object, idea, or process using visual aids. Fabricated subjects are not permitted. Humor and satire are allowed.
What is the time limit?
10 minute maximum; no minimum
When does an Expository speaker’s time begin to run?
Time begins when the speaker begins speaking and ends when the speaker has finished speaking. No setup is allowed during the judge’s evaluation time between speeches.
Assistance with visual aids is not permitted. Take down of any props other than the folding of an easel must be done during the speech. Speakers must leave the speaking area in the same condition as they found it.
May a competitor use a speech used in a previous season?
Material must be prepared for the current NCFCA season. Previous seasons’ speeches in any category will be disqualified. Last season's Original Oratory cannot become this season's Persuasive. Competitors may appeal in extenuating circumstances.
Can I compete with the same speech in two different categories?
Speakers may not use the same speech in two separate categories at the same tournament. However, the same speech can be moved to a different category at a different tournament. For example, a speaker may not enter the same speech into both Original Oratory and Expository at the same tournament. He may enter the same speech in OO in one tournament and in Expository at a later tournament. If the speech qualifies to advance to a higher level of competition in both categories (Regionals or Nationals) the speaker will have to choose a category.
May quotations from outside sources be used?
Up to 30% of the words used in a speech may be quoted from outside sources, but must be cited properly. See the Script Submission Form for details on citing sources.
May a speaker arrive in costume?
No. All special clothing related to the speech must be donned and removed during the course of the speech.
May an Expository speaker sit or kneel on the ground during his or her speech?
In other speech categories, the floor and room furnishings are considered props and would not be permitted. In Expository, however, props are allowed and encouraged. Therefore, the rules for expository allow for demonstration and do not prohibit touching the floor. It is left to the judges to determine whether this demonstration visually aides or detracts from the expository speech.
Can I use my sword as a visual aid? What about my gun? Explosives?
Visual aids may not be weapons. This includes, but is not limited to, knives, swords (including fencing swords), guns, explosives, or other items that are used as weapons. Weapons, as well as visual aids that look like weapons, may be confiscated at the discretion of the Tournament Director.
Can I use a person as a live "visual aid" in my Expository speech?
Live visual aids, including people and animals, may not be used in an Expository Speech. Tournaments usually take place in public buildings like schools and churches. Most public buildings do not allow animals. There is a difference between a goldfish and a pet pig, but it's cleaner to prohibit any animals.
There are several reasons that people are not allowed to be used as visual aids. One consideration is the role of the assistant. There are three options for acquiring an assistant: 1.) a judge; 2.) an unknown audience member; or 3.) a person brought by the speaker to assist in the speech.
1.) The judge should not be asked to participate in any way beyond that of a passive audience member.
2.) There is no guarantee there will be an audience and it would be highly inappropriate to ask another participant or their family to help with a competitor’s speech.
3.) If the contestant brings an assistant, the nature of the event has changed. It can be assumed that the speaker and assistant have rehearsed together. Now the presentation is no longer evaluated for the competitor’s performance alone, but also for the assistant, essentially making it a duo event. Even if the assistant tries to remain passive, their expressions and reactions become an integral part of the speech. This standard for Expository Speaking is the rule, written or unwritten, in most major high school and college leagues, and has been the standard for the NCFCA since the league began.
Is there anything else not allowed in an Expository speech?
No gratuitous vulgarity is allowed.
What is gratuitous vulgarity?
This refers to vulgar, obscene or profane language or gestures which are included for shock value. Gratuitous vulgarity is not appropriate.
Why do I have to cite sources in my speech?
The purpose of referencing sources in your speech, and not just in your bibliography, is so that your audience knows when you are presenting your own ideas and when you are quoting or referencing someone else.
How do I cite sources in my speech?
All sources need to be cited and listed in the bibliography of the submitted script. References to sources should be included in the text of the speech as it is delivered.
How much information do I need to give when referencing sources in a platform speech?
The goal is for your audience to know whose ideas are being presented. Here are two examples:
1. “In his book, The Gospel in the Shells, Joe Doe presents a fascinating theory of God’s revelation to man in simple objects.”
2. “A recent Wall Street Journal editorial by Jane Smith on the decline of western civilization has brought this issue to the forefront.”
Will I be penalized if my speech goes too long because of audience laughter?
Audience participation or laughter that extends the time of a piece will not result in penalizing the speaker.
Do I have to memorize my piece?
Yes. Memorization is required. No scripts, notes, or prompting are allowed. Use of a script in a Qualifying Tournament requires a penalty of two ranks. Use of a script at the National Championship requires disqualification.
Can automatic script penalties be waived for a speaker with learning disabilities or difficulty with memorization?
The answer is that there can be no exceptions. Competitive forensics reveals strengths in young speakers who did not believe they were capable. Speakers are frequently unable to memorize until they "have to." When speech participants have to, they often try harder and achieve more than they thought they could. Finally, the purpose of this activity is not to win, but to grow in communication ability. The memorization requirement is included to encourage speakers to be the best communicators they can be.
My child has special needs and/or circumstances. Can he be considered an exception to a competition rule?
From a practical standpoint, an exception here would open the door for a host of exceptions. An unlimited number of participants could see themselves in need of exceptions and an infinite number of potential exceptions requested. It becomes highly complicated to communicate the variety of potential exceptions to the judges as well as competitors. The ultimate purpose for participating in competitive forensics is for to improve communication skills. Special students have shown much improvement in this environment.
Do I have to submit my script?
Scripts are required at every Qualifying Tournament, Regional Tournament, National Open, and the National Championship. The Script Submission Form is available online with the other IE documents.
