The speech must be an original work, scripted word for word. The speaker will present a persuasive speech on any subject he or she chooses.

What is the time limit?

10 minute maximum; no minimum

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 Persuasive at the same tournament. He may enter the same speech in OO in one tournament and in Persuasive 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.

Does a persuasive speech have to be serious?

Humor and satire are permitted.

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.

What is NOT allowed in a Persuasive speech?

No props, costumes, audiovisuals, or gratuitous vulgarity will be 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 audience laughter be counted against my time?

Audience participation or laughter that extends the time of a piece will not penalize 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.