Original Oratory
Original Oratories are 10 minute persuasive speeches. It is completely original (hence the name) although using researched material is always a good idea. 00 topics tend to be abstract like love, trust, originality, guilt or fear, however this event does offer a lot of freedom. The more creative your topic is, the better. Your speech can inform, it can make the audience think, and most are inspirational in some way. Your speech should have an intro, a body, and a conclusion. But writing an oratory is different than writing an essay, in that it will he spoken so that grammar and mechanics don’t matter as much as long as it sounds professional, insightful, and intelligent.
You will want to have an ‘attention-getter’ at the very beginning. This is a teaser that will wake up the judges and interest them. This can be a story or an anecdote or a personal example. Then you want to tie that to your topic. You should also ‘signpost’ in your intro. Signposting is very briefly outlining what you will talk about in your speech. Don’t forget to Use transitional words like “However, furthermore, moreover, on the other hand, in conclusion” between paragraphs.
Many speeches use humor, a very effective tool when used properly. If you have a very serious and sensitive topic, do not use jokes. Also don’t put little one-liners in a very powerful concluding sentence because it can really take away from the seriousness of what you’re trying to say. However if you can be appropriately funny, by all means go for it You might be surprised at how much parent judges like cheesy jokes when they’re delivered the right way. If you can actually get your judge to laugh, you will definitely stand out in his/her mind.
Evidence is also very important. You want quotations, statistics, and examples. You don’t need quotations but most orators include 3 to 4 quotes to back up what’s said. Statistics will always be helpful in the persuasive aspect of your speech. You should try to find at least two examples of your topic from either history, literature, pop culture, or the most important, your personal life. You’ll want to ‘personalize’ and ‘universalize’ your speech. Sometimes clever stories or anecdotes are also funny and helpful.
When delivering the speech, speak slowly, confidently, and at an appropriate volume (which usually means to speak up.) Try to use a variety of inflections and do not speak in a monotone voice. If your voice is excited and varied, the judges won’t lose interest. If you have a sad example, speak seriously. If you’re delivering a joke, say it as though it’s the funniest thing on the face of the planet. You should be “big” and dramatic in your delivery (but not overly dramatic). Use smooth and effective hand gestures. Use transitional walking of 2 to 3 steps as you change main points. Do NOT wander around aimlessly while you’re speaking. Good Luck