Bishop Kelley Speech and Debate Handbook(updated September 2016)

Welcome to Bishop Kelley Speech Activities

Going to speech tournaments is one of the most unique and exciting experiences you will have during your high school days. The work is hard, but the rewards are numerous. You will spend many hours reading, listening, researching, and rehearsing. You will acquire a taste for quality, develop poise, and a thirst for more knowledge. You will travel to many different schools and will associate with the top students from other cities and states. You will be spending many hours in close association with other students on our speech squad and will learn to get along with all kinds of people. Pride, discipline, and teamwork are qualities that are expected from every team member. You will find that working hard and working together to develop a quality performance is exciting, rewarding, and fun.

This Speech Activities Handbook is designed to provide you with the information youand your parents will need. It contains the policies and procedures designed to ensure that you are involved in a quality activity that appropriately reflects the mission of Bishop Kelley High School. It also contains information about the various opportunities you will have to participate. We hope that participation in speech activities will enhance your high school education as it has so many others before you.

Ms. Shipley and Mrs. Clark are available to help you achieve your goals. Please feel free to seek us out. While we are "specializing" in certain events at Bishop Kelley, we all have had experience with all the events of competitive speech and drama and each of us would be happy to help you with any of your events or concerns.

The strength of any successful program lies in its leadership. We have a very capable and dedicated group of seniors who will also do whatever they can to help make your competitive experience a great one. They, along with some of the other experienced underclassmen, want you to be successful and have the knowledge to assist you. Ask them!

Please review this handbook and let your parents review it as well. Keep it handy for reference. Be sure you have the appropriate forms (medical/transportation) on file in time for the first tournament. Bishop Kelley has had a very successful program. Let the tradition continue!

In what Speech categories am I allowed to compete?

Original Oratory (OO)This is a persuasive speech that you write yourself and memorize. Its maximum length is ten minutes. You may only quote 150 words directly. The rest must be your original work.

Standard Oratory (SO)This is a speech, editorial, or essay written by someone else that you memorize and deliver. The maximum time is ten minutes. This event is limited to grades nine and ten.

Extemporaneous Speaking (DEX or FEX)This is an event where you will speak on current events. You will draw five topics, choose one, and then have thirty minutes to prepare a 4-7 minute speech.( NOTE: There is no longer a state required minimum but there is an expectation that BK extempers will speak for at least 4 minutes.) You will be able to use a file containing magazine and newspaper clippings in your speech preparation. You have the choice to enter Domestic Extemp (topics about events in the United States and/or US foreign policy) or Foreign Extemp (topics about the internal affairs of foreign countries).

Prose Interp (PR)This is an interp event for ninth and tenth grades only. You select a short story or cut a longer story to fit the eight-minute time limit. You keep the script in your hands although you know it so well you only have to refer to it occasionally.

Poetry Interp (PO)This is an interp event for eleventh and twelfth grades only. You select a single poem or a program of poems on a theme. The maximum time is eight minutes. You keep the script in your hands although you know it so well you rarely have to refer to it.

Monologue (MO)This is an acting event for one person. You must select two contrasting pieces – one humorous and one dramatic - in which only one character speaks. The maximum time is six minutes and it must be memorized. You are allowed to use one chair and to move about as the character would. You have an introduction at the beginning that introduces both pieces.

Humorous or Dramatic Interp (HI or DI)These are two separate events. While the usual cutting comes from a play, it is possible tocut a novel as well. You will use different voices, facial expressions, gestures, and body positions to convey the conversation happening among the characters, or you may choose a monologue. You may use some movement. You do not use a chair. The maximum time is 10 minutes. You must memorize it.

Humorous or Dramatic Duet (HD or DD)These are two separate events. A duet implies that two people are involved, although(especially in humorous) these two people may play multiple parts. You are allowed two chairs and may move, jump, twirl, and twist to your (and coach's)heart's content. The time limit is ten minutes. Once you "qualify" you will not be able to change partners, so pick your partners carefully.

In what Debate categories am I allowed to compete?

Lincoln Douglas Debate (LD)This is an event where two students from different schools present arguments on a topicselected by a national committee. You must be enrolled in class before you can begin competing in this event.

Policy Debate (CX)This is an event where two students from one school debate two students from anotherschool on a topic selected by a national committee. You must be enrolled in class before you can begin competing in this event.

Public Forum Debate (PFD)This is an event where two students from one school debate two students from another school on a topic selected by a national committee. The topic changes monthly and is geared toward people who have never debated before. You do not have to be enrolled in class to compete in this event.

What rules must I follow to compete?

The following rules are provided so that there will be no misunderstanding as to what is expected. They apply to every member of the speech squad. The coaches and sponsors alone cannot enforce these rules. Take pride in obeying them and helping to enforce them. Bishop Kelley Speech will be a team with class!

Act like ladies and gentlemen. Ordinary good manners, courtesy, and respect for authority make us all a good deal easier to be around. This ensures everyone will have a good time and others will think well of our team and our school.

Be helpful to other squad members. Listen to them practice and offer constructive suggestions. Give them moral support at the tournament. Show appreciation for those who do well even if disappointed with the results of your own performance.

No drugs, alcohol, or tobacco. Possession or consumption of any illegal substances will cause all of us a great deal of pain. It causes harm to Bishop Kelley's reputation with other schools and causes harm to the program's reputation at Bishop Kelley. The OSSAA handbook states that "any student found using tobacco. . . on the grounds of the tournament shall be disqualified and expelled from the tournament." Expulsion from the speech team in addition to suspension from school may result from infractions involving drugs or alcohol.

Obey all adult sponsors. A sponsor, coach, or judge is in charge of each student's safety and well-being. Their authority is without question as far as you are concerned at the moment and their requests should be followed implicitly without hesitation or disrespect.

All school and speech policies are to be followed. (See "What should I expect at a tournament?") Since this is a school activity, all Bishop Kelley rules are in effect.

Transportation arrangements are binding. School-arranged transportation will be provided for all tournaments that are not in the immediate Tulsa Metro Area.

*Students may NEVER ride with other students.*Students must use the school transportation or ride with their own parent.*IF students plan to drive when the school has provided transportation, then the students must provide written permission from their parent.

Bottom Line: No one other than the immediate family is to be responsible for a student.

Students who know that school and speech policies are being ignored or not followed properly, but fail to inform one of the coaches at that time, will be held accountable for their lack of action.

Finally, the coaches reserve the right to deny any student the privilege of attending and competing in tournaments.

What are my financial obligations?

Entry FeesBishop Kelley pays all entry fees for students. By OSSAA rules once the entry is made, the fees are owed to the tournament. Therefore, if a student drops after the entry has been made (which is done on Monday before the tournament), then the student will be responsible for paying the entry fee (between $3 and $10 per event).

Drop FeesIf a student drops an event after noon on Tuesday, both the entry fee and a drop fee of $5per event will be owed. Debate drop fees called in after 9:00 on Friday earn an additional $25 drop fee. Dropping at the tournament, including forfeiting rounds or not showing up for rounds costs you and us $50 for debate and $25 for all other events. The moral here: Make up your mind and check your calendar before you sign up. If an unforeseen circumstance or illness arises, call at the earliest opportunity. Don't leave it for us to figure out that you aren't in school on Friday!

Motel FeesOvernight trips that require staying in a motel will be mostly at the expense of the students. In order for you to be able to anticipate costs ahead of time, we will collect a standard fee of $20 per student per night. This rate will assume that three or four students will be assigned to a room. If you require your own bed, let us know and expect to pay double the fee.

FoodConcessions stands are always available at tournaments. They usually serve a variety ofnormal concession stand food at normal concession stand prices. Do not plan on being able to leave the tournament site during the day. Therefore, students may find it helpful to bring fruit or other snacks along. On overnight trips, we will eat somewhere "reasonable" but not necessarily fast food - count on $5-$10 depending on your appetite.

The bottom line is this: it is not our intention to exclude anyone based on finances. The cost of participation is modest and students certainly have choices about their participation and the

ability to plan ahead. However, if there is a financial hardship, students or parents should feel free to speak with one of the coaches privately so that arrangements can be made.

Please Note: All financial obligations from one tournament must be cleared before a student will be allowed to sign up for another one.

What do I need to know about entering tournaments?

Students are eligible to enter no more than eight Qualifying Tournaments. These are the Oklahoma tournaments October through February, which qualify students for the Regional Tournament. When a student enters only the Novice or Championship Division at a tournament, that tournament will not count against the eight-tournament rule.

Students may enter three events at any tournament. In order to be eligible for overnight trips, students will be expected to enter at least two events. Once you have qualified an event for Regionals, you may not enter that same event again until the Regional tournament unless you enter it in the Championship Division. This rule does not apply to Extemp and Debate.

Material used by a student in a state or NSDA National tournament may not be used by that student again as long as s/he participates in high school forensics. See the coaches for clarification.

Before entering the first tournament, a student must have on file parental permission and transportation forms. Medical forms signed by a parent or guardian will be required of all students.

Entries will close at 12 noon the Monday of the tournament unless otherwise noted. Sign up with a coach! PLAN AHEAD. Once the entry has been finalized on Monday, transportation and hotel arrangements will be made. "Tournament Information" for that week's tournament will be posted by the end of school on Tuesday on the bulletin board in the S Building. Students will be given a sheet with information regarding the tournament when they sign up to attend.

What organizations sponsor which tournaments and who goes?

Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities AssociationThis is the same organization that sponsors sports, music, and academic bowl. They sponsor the "qualifying" tournaments that lead to Regional qualification. Any student in grades 9-12 who is academically eligible and in good standing with the school may attend a qualifying tournament. Usually, students who place 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in an event will qualify for the Regional tournament in that event. The Regional tournament will be held in March. All regional qualifiers are eligible to attend and enter a maximum of three events that they have qualified. The top 8 students will advance to the State Tournament at OU in April.

National Speech and Debate AssociationThis is an honorary organization that offers recognition for participation in speech activities. They sponsor the National Speech and Debate Tournament which is held every June. The only way to enter the national tournament is to qualify through the NSDA District Tournament or NDSA Student Congress. Our entries are limited by our "chapter size." Our chapter size is determined by

the number of students who earn membership and advanced degrees throughout the year. The coaches will choose NSDA District contestants. Criteria will include competitive success, work ethic, and having prepared the NSDA events (LD, PF, OO, DI, HI, Duo Interp, FEX, DEX, and Student Congress).

Out of State tripsThe coaches will determine on a yearly basis which out-of-state tournaments we will attend. Entries are often limited at these tournaments. The coaches will determine the criteria by which students will be selected. Students will be expected to pay most or all of their expenses for an out-of-state tournament.

What is expected of me at a tournament?

Wear appropriate clothing. Men should wear dress slacks, long-sleeved dress shirt, and a tie. A jacket is a nice touch for speaking events (but is optional). Dark dress shoes and socks are required - no boots or sneakers. Jewelry other than a watch and a ring are discouraged. Earrings for men will not be allowed. Ladies should wear a skirt and blouse or a dress unless doing an acting event that requires wearing slacks. Denim clothing is not acceptable for ladies or men. Ladies should wear hose - not socks - and dress shoes. Avoid the clunky style. Absolutely no flip-flops of any kind! It is fine to wear comfortable shoes and change into your dress shoes for performing only. Skirts should be a length appropriate for school. No spaghetti straps, bare shoulders, or bare midriffs. No mini skirts or wrap around skirts. Students who are not appropriately dressed will not be allowed to represent Bishop Kelley High School.

Be on time. We will always run on a tight schedule. Promptness is essential. At the tournament, be prompt to your rounds. Find out when your rounds are scheduled and make arrangements to work out conflicts if you have multiple events.

Never enter a room while someone is speaking. If the door is closed, listen carefully. If you can't tell if someone is speaking, err on the side of caution. Wait until you hear applause or until the door opens.

Do not leave campus. The only exception to this will be if you are with an adult sponsor. Even if you have driven your own car to the tournament, you are not allowed to leave until the tournament is over or you have been dismissed.

Do not disturb anything in the room in which you are competing. Many schools can no longer host tournaments because students abused the privilege of being guests. Do not even get near the teacher's desk. If you observe someone else abusing a room or its contents, either get them to stop or let a tournament official or adult know. It has become common practice at many tournaments to prohibit students entering a room unless the judge is present. Heed these warnings!

Before watching any teammates' performance, ask permission. Some students love a friendly crowd. Other students are nervous performing in front of their friends. Respect their wishes. And don't be shy about letting your own wishes be known.

Watch the entire round unless you have a conflict. If you have two events scheduled at the same time, do the one you are scheduled in earliest first. Be sure you go to the other room

before the round begins and write "John Doe - Conflict at 8:00 with Prose - Please wait" or something similar on the board. You may also be able to send a teammate in to tell the judge. If the conflict involves extemp, always go to extemp first and ask to be moved up in speaking order. If there is not a conflicting event, you should stay to watch the entire round and be a polite audience for your competitors. The same rule applies to friends who watch you - stay for the whole round. Getting up and leaving as a group after one particular performance is rude and distracting and often offends the judge. WATCH WHAT YOU SAY IN FRONT OF JUDGES!

If you have problems of any kind, find the coaches, or another district coach to help you. We will be scattered over the campus judging rounds or perhaps working in the tab room. If you can't find one of us, find another coach you recognize and ask for help.

Keep derogatory comments to yourself.

Do your part to keep the tournament location clean. Put trash in the trashcans, not on the floor. Keep the area in the cafeteria that we are occupying clean. NEVER walk off and leave a lot of trash on the table or floor where we have been sitting.

Turn off cell phones and audible pagers anytime you are in a round. DO NOT TEXT during a round.

What special rules apply to overnight tournaments?

Room assignments will be made by the coaches. Do not ask to change rooms - it is only one night, and a very short one at that. Boys will not be in girls' rooms; girls will not be in boys' rooms. Period. Additionally, BK students are not to be in the hotel rooms of other students from other high schools.

Once we arrive at the hotel after competition Friday night, you will have ten minutes to "settle in". After that time, the door is to be closed for the evening. Noise will be kept to a minimum. The hotel has given us a special rate and they have other customers. This is an issue of good manners.

You will be informed the room number of the coaches/sponsors. Keep this handy if you need it. You will be able to call room to room, but don't. A ringing phone disturbs not only the people in the room, but the people on either side of the room as well.

Treat the rooms with respect. Any damages that occur in the room will be the responsibility of the people assigned to that room. If there is a problem with your room when you check in, report the damages or problem to a coach immediately. If something happens to your room while you are in it, tell the coaches. It is far better to own up for responsibility at the time than to have the hotel "discover" the problem and call us.

DO NOT TAKE ANYTHING FROM THE MOTEL ROOMS!

Be sure to take an alarm clock as well as arranging for a wake-up call. Hotel wake-up calls can be very unreliable. Be sure you allow enough time for everyone to shower. It will take longer than it does at home.

Overnight trips are not slumber parties. It is important that you make an honest effort to sleep. Not only do you need to be well-rested for your own performances the next day, it is also common courtesy to your roommates. The adult sponsors also need sleep and will not tolerate noise or students out of their rooms. Those who stay up half the night won't be going on overnights again.

Clean up after yourself. Put all trash in the trashcan. Put all dirty towels in the tub. Put all furniture back in place. Check the room for all articles. (We won't be going back; if you leave something, it is your problem to solve.)

What is the National Speech and Debate Association and how do I join?

The NSDA is an educational honor society founded in 1925. Its purpose is to encourage and motivate high school students to participate and become proficient in the forensic arts: debate, public speaking, and interpretation. The NSDA hosts the national tournament every summer; it is the NSDA District Tournament in March that serves as the qualifying tournament for Nationals. You must be a member of NSDA in order to attend the District Tournament.

The NSDA is a well-recognized and well-respected organization. It is a great activity to be able to put on your resumes; it is favorably recognized by both colleges and scholarship sponsors. Prominent NSDA alumni include President Lyndon Johnson, Vice-President Hubert Humphrey, Senator Karl Mundt, University of Oklahoma President David Boren, international media visionary Ted Turner, Academy Award winners Patricia Neal and Don Ameche, Emmy award winner Daniel J. Travanti, actress Shelly Long, television host Oprah Winfrey, news anchor Jane Pauley, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and former Attorney General Janet Reno.

Points are earned by participation in competitive speech, debate, mock trial, and student congress. Debate wins earn six points; losses earn three points. Each speech round earns points based on how you placed in the round. Extemp and Original Oratory start with six points for first place; all the interp and acting events start with five points. You earn points everytime you compete!

It takes 25 points to earn membership. There is also a one-time $20 membership fee. As a member you will receive a very nice certificate and you may purchase an NSDA pin, which many students wear to contest. You will also get your name on the NSDA Chart and will have voting privileges in chapter elections and business. As you earn more points, you will also earn advanced degrees. Every degree earns a new seal to place on your certificate, a different color stone to set in your pin, a "star" on the chart, and an additional vote in chapter business. All certificates will be presented and Advanced Degree recognition given at the end of the year at the Speech and Drama Banquet.

Points

Degree Pin Stone Chart Star

25 Merit Gold75 Honor Emerald Green150 Excellence Sapphire Blue

250 Distinction Ruby Red500 Special Distinction 2 Rubies 2 Red750 Superior Distinction 3 Rubies 3 Red1000

1500

Outstanding Distinction

Premier Distinction

4 Rubies

5 Rubies

4 Red

5 Red

What other recognition can I earn?

Bishop Kelley awards "Letters" to competitive speech and debate participants who meet the criteria for recognition. In order to letter in "Speech" a student must compete in a minimum of 15 rounds of individual events. In order to letter in "Debate" a student must compete in a minimum of 25 debate rounds. Novice Division will not count toward lettering. Students who qualify for Regionals or State and do not attend will forfeit their letter. Letters are awarded at the annual Speech Awards Reception. Drama letters are earned through participation in plays and productions. Mrs. Hoagland has details.

OSSAA Rules Governing Standard Oratory1. This event is limited to students in grades nine and ten.2. For the purpose of this contest, a standard oratory is defined as a speech, editorial, or

essay written by a person other than the speaker and must be memorized. Use of a script is prohibited. Plays and fictional monologues are unacceptable.

3. Each participant is to precede his selection by a short introduction in which s/he acquaints the audience with the author, and the reason why this particular material was chosen for delivery, i.e., why it is worth giving.

4. The maximum time including the introduction is not to exceed 10 minutes.5. Verbal prompting from the audience is not allowed.6. All performances must be void of profanity, vulgarity, nudity, and obscenity.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Standard Oratory1. See the coaches for help in selecting an oratory.2. Videos are available for many of the speeches we have in our file. These can be

helpful in getting ideas for presentation and understanding the author's intent behind certain phrasing; you should not try to copy the performance exactly.

3. Once you have begun memorizing the speech, get an upperclassman to listen to you and give suggestions. Get their help in writing an introduction if you don't feel capable of writing one.

4. When the speech is memorized, and an upperclassman has seen it, sign up to work with a coach.

OSSAA Rules Governing Original Oratory1. The original oration may be on any subject the student chooses. It must be written by

the student, although the teacher may offer suggestions as to organization, content, style, etc, and must be memorized. Use of a script is not permissible.

2. No more than 150 words may be quoted directly. Extensive paraphrasing violates the spirit of the event. Plagiarism is defined as claiming, indicating, or implying that the ideas, sentences, or words of another writer are your own. It includes copying the

work of another and presenting it as your own, failing to get away from the language of the original text when paraphrasing, failing to identify the source of a quotation or paraphrase, and following the work of another as a guide to ideas and expression that are then presented as your own.

3. The maximum time is not to exceed 10 minutes.4. Original work from a previous years' state or nationals may not be repeated by that

student.5. All performances must be void of profanity, vulgarity, nudity, and obscenity. Use of

these may result in lowered ranking by the judges and a protest filed with the tournament director.

6. Verbal prompting from the audience is not allowed.7. A copy of the oration must be typed, double-spaced. The quoted words must be

highlighted and counted; paraphrases must also be highlighted. The copy must be of the oration in its entirety as it is actually delivered. The copy must be submitted in a sealed envelope to the tournament director in case a protest is filed.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Original Oratory1. Choose a topic - it should be something that you really care about and can be

passionate about. It should be something you find either research or stories or quotations to build the speech.

2. Once you have an idea and have checked it out with one of the coaches, begin compiling as much as you can - anecdotes, examples, research, quotations. Look to television, music, bumper-stickers, literature, history - use as many avenues as possible.

3. It will be your responsibility to get a copy of your oratory (Rule #7) to Ms. Shipley before each tournament. If your oratory is protested, and you can't produce the copy, you will automatically be disqualified.

OSSAA Rules Governing Extemporaneous Speaking1. Contestants will be expected to prepare on all significant topics (within the areas of

international, national, or state affairs) that have received emphasis in the major magazines and newspapers since September 1st of the current school year. Topics will be phrased in the form of a question specific enough for the judges to determine whether the speech is relevant to the topic drawn.

2. Speakers will draw at 7-minute intervals and have 30 minutes for preparation. Students will be allowed to draw 5 topics, from which one must be selected within a few minutes and reported to the person supervising the drawing. Speakers must remain in the extemp prep until dismissed by extemp officials.

3. Students are not to consult with coaches or others after topic has been drawn.4. The student must hand the question to his/her judge(s) before s/he speaks. As part of

the introduction of the speech, the contestant is to state the topic in the exact words.5. At the end of 30 minutes the student will deliver his speech. He may use no more than

50 words of notes. Numbers, symbols, and abbreviations will count as words.6. The participant is to speak not more than 7 minutes.7. The speech may be followed by a questioning period during which each judge or panel

of judges may ask one relevant question designed to secure verification, clarification, or amplification.

8. A student may not compete in both divisions of extemporaneous at any one tournament including regionals and state.

9. The use of laptop computers in Extemporaneous Speaking is permitted.a. Extemporaneous Speaking contestants may make use of electronic retrieval devices to

store and to retrieve their subject files.

b. Students can retrieve extemporaneous files to read, but cannot write speeches or organize their thoughts on the computers.

c. This rule in no way prevents students from still utilizing traditional paper copy files to enable the competitor to successfully compete in Extemporaneous Speaking. The OSSAA takes no position on which form of file storage is preferable for use at tournaments.

d. Electronic retrieval devices are defined as laptop computers, netbooks, or other portable electronic devices. Cell phones or smart phones are prohibited from being used while preparing or before speaking at tournaments, or any other device that can access broadband networks. Texting in the prep room is grounds for disqualification.

e. Source Materials: Students may consult published books, periodical articles, newspaper articles, think tank articles, government reports or journal articles saved on their electronic retrieval device or present in hard copy form provided:

i. There are no notations made within or on the saved article other than citation information. ii. Bolding, italicizing, or any other manipulation of the original text of sources (other than highlighting or underlining as previously stipulated) is prohibited.

f. Power Source: Power plugs or outlets may not be used in the prep room at any time. All computers used in the prep room must be battery operated at all times. Competitors are responsible for making certain their electronic retrieval devices are fully charged at the start of each competition day and for proper power management ensuring that their device remains functional throughout the competition day. Contestants may not use external power sources in the prep room, such as wall outlets and/or extension cords.g. Internet: Extemporaneous Speaking contestants shall not access the Internet or communicate electronically with any other individual while in the prep room at any time.h. All computers must comply with the following provisions:

i. Computers equipped with removable wireless cards must have the cards removed before the beginning of any round of competition. It is the responsibility of the contestant to disengage the equipment.ii. Computers with built-in wireless capability may be used only if the wireless capability is disabled. It is the responsibility of the contestant to disable the equipment.iii. Wired connections (Ethernet or phone) during rounds of competition are not permitted. Computers or other electronic devices may not be used to receive information from any source (coaches or assistants included) inside or outside of the room in which the competition occurs.iv. Internet access, use of email, instant messaging, or other means of receiving information from sources inside or outside of the competition room are prohibited.

i. Liability: Extemporaneous Speaking competitors accept full responsibility for the safety and security of their electronic retrieval devices throughout the entire course of any tournament.

i. The tournament host may put stickers and/or tape on computers to ensure they are not opened or used, or to ensure appropriate owners take their own machines.ii. The OSSAA does not assume any liability for the computers.iii. Students are welcome to use Kensington locks or other such devices to secure their computers in the prep room.iv. Students, parents, and coaches should be aware that the students are bringing and using the computers at their own risk.v. The OSSAA is not responsible for lost, stolen, or broken computers. It is the coaches’ affirmative duty to make sure that students have on file a liability waiver before bringing electronic equipment to a tournament.

10. No one is allowed in the extemp draw except the contestants and tournament officials.

11. Directly cited articles must be available upon request by the tournament director.12. All performances must be void of profanity, vulgarity, nudity, and obscenity. Use

of these may result in lowered ranking by the judges and a protest filed with the tournament directors.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Extemporaneous Speaking1. All veteran extempers will be expected to contribute to keeping the electronic extemp

files up to date.

OSSAA Rules Governing Prose1. This event is limited to students in grades nine and ten.2. The purpose of this contest is to stimulate the student to find the meaning of printed

prose and to communicate the meaning orally to his/her listeners. Participation in the contest should also assist a student in developing critical techniques in the evaluation of prose to convey subtleties of meaning and feeling through vocal control.

3. Gestures are allowed; however, the interpreter is to get his effect primarily through vocals changes and changes in facial expressions. Character voices are acceptable; however, physical placement of characters (eye focus on other imaginary characters) is not allowed. Eye contact should be directed toward the audience. Significant movement (walking, pacing) is not allowed.

4. Prose for the purpose of this contest is defined as any published material of literary merit (novel, short story, or essay), except poetry or drama. For this contest, the competitor may use a single work or a collection of shorter works by the same author or a collection of short works that are thematically related. A photocopy from the original published script must be available.

5. The reader may edit or cut his material as he sees fit.6. The book or manuscript must be in the hands of the reader.7. The time limit, including the introduction, is 8 minutes.8. All performances must be void of profanity, vulgarity, nudity, and obscenity. Use of

these may result in lowered ranking by the judges and a protest filed with the tournament director.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Prose1. The prose files are stored in the script cabinet. Do not take the original copy in the

folder. Use the copy machine in the library to make yourself a copy of the script.2. Check with a coach to be sure no one else has signed up to use the piece you are

considering. Once you make your selection, sign the clipboard to reserve that piece for yourself.

3. Get one of the upperclassmen to listen to you. Get their help in writing an introduction if you feel unable to write your own.

4. After you have worked on their suggestions, ask one of the coaches to work with you.5. Be sure that you have "slicks" for your script.

OSSAA Rules Governing Poetry1. This event is limited to students in grades 11 and 12.2. Each contestant is to give an introduction to his program. The purpose of the

introduction is: (a) to arouse and stimulate the interest of the audience in what is to

follow; (b) to reflect adequate understanding by the reader of the author and his works, particularly in the selection read; and (c) to make the audience feel that the reader appreciates an opportunity to read to them, and that the interpreter has a real, lively, and enthusiastic interest in the selection.

3. Gestures are allowed; however, the interpreter is to get his effect primarily through volume changes and changes in facial expressions. Character voices are acceptable; however, physical placement of characters (eye focus on other imaginary characters) is not allowed. Eye contact should be directed toward the audience. Significant movement (walking, pacing) is not allowed.

4. Material used in the performance must be all published poetry. A photocopy from the original published script must be available. All lines performed must be highlighted.

5. The reader may edit or cut his material as he sees fit. For this contest, the competitor may use one poem or a collection of poems by the same author or a collection of poems thematically related.

6. The book or manuscript must be in the hands of the reader.7. The time including the introduction is 8 minutes.8. All performances must be void of profanity, vulgarity, nudity, and obscenity. Use of

these may result in lowered ranking by the judges and a protest filed with the tournament director.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Poetry1. The poetry files are stored in the script cabinet. Original research is also very much

encouraged.2. Do not take the original copy in the folder. Use the copy machine in the library to

make yourself a copy of the script.3. Check with a coach to be sure no one else has signed up to use the piece you are

considering. Once you make your selection, sign the clipboard to reserve that piece for yourself.

4. Write an introduction for your piece.5. Sign up to work with one of the coaches.6. Be sure you have "slicks" for your manuscript.

OSSAA Rules Governing Monologue1. Monologue is to be defined for purposes of this contest as material from published,

worthwhile literature in which only one character speaks. Lines performed must be taken from one character's speeches and not those of several characters spliced together. Material taken from a recording will not be accepted.

2. The monologue performance will consist of two contrasting pieces, one humorous and one serious. These selections may or may not center on one theme. Actor versatility and believability within the author's intent will be of prime importance.

3. Original wording shall be used only for the introduction. A brief introduction shall be presented at the beginning of the program. It shall be designed to prepare the audience favorably for the contrasting materials.

4. There shall be no spoken transition or conclusion.5. Maximum time is not to exceed 6 minutes.6. Properties allowed shall be limited to one chair. Blocking appropriate to the scene is

to be allowed.7. The cutting must be presented without scenery, special lighting, costuming, or sound

effects.8. A photocopy of the original published script must be available. This photocopy must

have all lines performed highlighted.

9. Prompting from the audience is not allowed.10. This is a memorized event. Use of script is prohibited.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Monologue1. The monologue files are stored in the script cabinet. Original research is also very

much encouraged. READ, READ, READ.2. Do not take the original copy from the room. Use the copy machine to make yourself a

copy of the script.3. Check with a coach to be sure no one else has signed up to use the pieces you are

considering. Once you make your selection, sign up with a coach to reserve those pieces for yourself.

4. Write an introduction for your performance. Do some initial blocking and memorize your pieces. Sign up to work with one of the coaches.

5. Be sure you have a photocopy of your script with you at contest as specified in Rule #8.

6. Material taken from the internet must be from one of the NSDA approved sites.

OSSAA Rules Governing Humorous and Dramatic Interp1. Dramatic and humorous interpretation are to be defined, for practical purpose of this

contest, as material in which persons or characters other than, or in addition to, the author speaks throughout. (Monologues are also now allowed) The material should have sufficient merit to justify careful study and preparation by the student.

2. Material must be from a single work of published, worthwhile literature using the same diction that the author has used in the original manuscript. Materials taken from a recording will not be accepted.

3. Additional wording may be added for the purpose of introduction, transition, and conclusion. Transitions must be a vehicle for time and location change only. Total time of introduction, conclusion, and all transitions may not exceed 2 minutes. Author’s wording may not be altered except to delete vulgarities and offensive language.

4. The performance should include an introduction designed to prepare the audience favorably for the material to be presented.

5. The maximum time including the introduction is not to exceed 10 minutes.6. Properties shall not be used. There is to be a minimum of physical movement below the

waist and no adjustment of clothing.a. Examples not permitted: kneeling on one or both knees, squatting,

jumping, sitting down or lying down.b. Examples permitted: shifting weight on one or both feet, moving of

one or both feet, slightly bending one or both knees, turning, and a minimum of walking.

7. A contestant must remain in a standing position. 8. This is a memorized event. Use of a script is prohibited. 9. A photocopy of the original published script must be available. This photocopy must have all lines highlighted if they are to be performed. A typed copy of all transitions must also be available. Each separate transition must be numbered with the correct corresponding number placed in the script at the appropriate location. Penalty for failure to have script available or follow proper form is disqualification.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Humorous or Dramatic Interp1. Refer to all guidelines for monologue. They apply to interp as well.2. Consult with the Coaches before choosing a monologue for your material.

3. Having your script with you at each contest will be your responsibility. Be sure it conforms to the specifications in Rule #9.

OSSAA Rules Governing Humorous and Dramatic Duet1. This event will be divided into two divisions - Humorous Duet and Dramatic Duet.2. Duet teams must qualify together as a team.3. The event shall consist of a cutting from a single work of published, worthwhile

literature containing two or more characters using the same diction the author has used in the original manuscript. Materials taken from a recording will not be accepted. In no case may a school use more than 2 students to interpret all characters and perform all these functions. Additional wording may be added only for the purpose of introduction, transition, and conclusion. Transitions must be used as a vehicle for time or location change only. Total time of introduction, conclusion, and all transitions may not exceed 2 minutes. Author’s wording may not be altered except to delete vulgarities and offensive language.

4. The cutting must be presented without scenery, special lighting, costume and adjustment of clothing, make-up, sound effects, or furniture (other than 2 simple chairs furnished by the student or the host school and the chairs may be used as props.) The use of chairs is optional.

5. Maximum time of 10 minutes includes all expositions.6. This is a memorized event. Use of script is not permissible.7. A photocopy of the original published script must be available. This photocopy must

have all lines highlighted if they are to be performed. A typed copy of all transitions must also be available. Each separate transition must be numbered with the correct corresponding number placed in the script at the appropriate location. Penalty for failure to have the script available is disqualification.

8. Verbal prompting from the audience is not allowed.9. All performances must be void of profanity, vulgarity, nudity, and obscenity. Use of

these may result in lowered ranking by the judges and a protest filed with the tournament director.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Duet Acting1. All duet partners must be cleared through a coach. In fact, students wanting to enter

duet acting should consult with a coach about possible duet partners.2. All guidelines for monologue apply to duet acting as well.3. Students may want to consider taking your own chairs. If so, you are responsible for

getting them to the tournament and back to Bishop Kelley.4. Be sure to comply with Rule #7 and have the script with you at all tournaments.

OSSAA Rules Governing Lincoln Douglas Debate1. Only 2 speakers are involved; one fulfilling the affirmative case responsibilities and the

other, the negative.2. Each debater will be allowed a total of 4 minutes preparation time during the course

of the debate.3. The national topic from the NSDA Rostrum will be used for competition.4. Judges may read evidence after the round for a period of time not to exceed 5

minutes.5. The use of profanity and vulgarities is forbidden and may result in 0 speaker points

and a protest being filed with the tournament director.6. Proof of falsification of evidence will result in removal from the competition.7. Computers are allowed for flowing and/or evidence retrieval only.

OSSAA Rules Governing Public Forum Debate

1. Debate teams must qualify together as a team and two debaters must participate in every round by giving a four minute speech, a two-minute speech, and participating in Crossfire. No partner substitutions will be allowed after the debate competition begins. No debater may qualify for regionals more than three separate times. Any subsequent qualification will be invalid for that debater and his/her partner(s).

2. Preparation time will not exceed two (2) minutes per team. Crossfire is to be shared between the two sides, but the first question should come from Team A.

3. All debaters shall have available during each round complete citations for each piece of evidence introduced to include the name of the author, qualifications, complete source title, complete date and page number. Lack of a full citation shall void any effect of that piece of evidence in the round. Should two or more quotations be used from the same source the complete citation need be given only for the first piece of evidence used from thatsource. Either no internal ellipsis (Ellipses occur after the first word of the quotation and before the final word) may be used in evidence cited on a card, or ellipses may be shown on cards if the original source or a photocopy is present. The evidence may be read in ellipse form but the entirety of the evidence must be available in one of the two ways cited. Personal letters or telegrams shall not be admissible as evidence.

4. Judges may read evidence after the round for a period of time not to exceed five (5) minutes.

5. The use of profanity and vulgarities is forbidden and may result in a speaker rating of 0 or disqualification and a protest being filed with the tournament director. 6. The debate question will be chosen monthly by the NSDA.. 7. The use of electronic retrieval systems during the rounds are not allowed for contestants. 8. The use of laptop computers by competitors in Public Forum Debate is permissible for flowing and/or evidence retrieval so long as wire or wireless connections are disabled and remain disabled while the debate is in progress.

a) Computers equipped with removable wireless cards must have the cards removed before the beginning of any round of competition. It is the responsibility of the contestant to disengage equipment.

b) Computers with built-in wireless capability may be used only if the wireless capability is disabled. It is the responsibility of the contestant to disable the equipment.

c) Wired connections (Ethernet or phone) during rounds of competition are not permitted.d) Computers or other electronic devices may not be used to receive information from any

sources (coaches or assistants included) inside or outside the room in which the competition occurs. Internet access, use of email, instant messaging, or other means of receiving information from sources inside or outside the competition room are prohibited. (This does not prohibit non-electronic communication between debate partners during prep time.) Sanction: Contestants found to have violated provisions a-c above shall forfeit the round of competition and receive zero points. Contestants found to have violated provision d above shall be disqualified from the tournament and shall forfeit all rounds. Contest directors shall be empowered with the final decision concerning disqualification.

e) Availability of Evidence: Contestants electing to use computers shall have the responsibility to promptly/immediately provide a copy of any evidence read in a speech for inspection by the judge or opponent. Printers may be used. Evidence may be printed in the round but must be provided in a format readable by the opposing team and the judge.

f) Contestants electing to use computers are responsible for providing their own computers, batteries, extension cords and all other necessary accessories. Tournament hosts shall not be responsible for providing computers, printers, software, paper or extension cords for contestants. Contestants choosing to use laptop computers accept the risk of equipment failure.

No special consideration or accommodations, including no additionalprep time or speech time, will be given by judges, contest directors, or tournament hosts should equipment failure occur. By choosing to use laptop computers in the round, debaters are consenting to give tournament officials the right to search their files. Debaters who do not wish to consent should not use computers in the rounds.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Lincoln Douglas Debate1. Participation in this event will be with the approval of the Coaches.2. Students not enrolled in class are welcome to debate, as long as slots exist. In case of

too many students wanting to enter the tournament, preference will be given to those who need to compete for class requirements (assuming they signed up on time).

3. Although students may indicate a preference, the final decision on which division of the tournament to enter will be up to the coaches.

4. See PF Rule #8 regarding computers.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Public Forum Debate1. Participation in this event will be with the approval of the Coaches.2. Students not enrolled in class are welcome to debate, as long as slots exist. In case of too many students wanting to enter the tournament, preference will be given to those who need to compete for class requirements (assuming they signed up on time).3. Although students may indicate a preference, the final decision on which division of the tournament to enter will be up to the coaches.

OSSAA Rules Regarding Cross EX Debate1. Debate teams must qualify together as a team and two debaters must participate in

every round by giving a constructive speech, a rebuttal speech, and asking and answering questions during cross-examination. No partner substitutions will be allowed after the debate competition begins.

2. The following order and time shall be observed and the timekeeper shall say stop at the end of regulation time for each speech. 8-minute constructive; 3-minute cross- examination; 5-minute rebuttals; 5-minute preparation time per team.

3. All debaters shall have available during each round complete citations for each piece of evidence introduced to include the name of the author, qualifications, complete source title, complete date and page number. Lack of a full citation shall void any effect of that piece of evidence in the round. Should two or more quotations be used from the same source, the complete citation need be given only for the first piece of evidence used from that source. Either no internal ellipsis (Ellipses occur after the first word of the quotation and before the final word) may be used in evidence cited on a card, or ellipses may be shown on cards, if the original source or a photocopy is present. The evidence may be read in ellipse form, but the entirety of the evidence must be available in one of the two ways cited. Personal letters or telegrams shall not be admissible as evidence.

4. Judges may read evidence after the round for a period of time not to exceed 5 minutes.

5. The use of profanities and vulgarities is forbidden and may result in a speaker rating 0 and a protest being filed with the tournament director.

6. Proof of falsification of evidence will result in removal from competition. Proof of falsification is not subject to the 60- minute protest-filing rule.

7. Verbal prompting other than calling time is considered a violation of ethics and will result in a speaker rating of 0.

8. The semi-final losers shall debate for third place if necessary to determine qualification.

9. A debate team may consist of 2 or 3 members. Each team member must debate at that contest. Only 2 members of the team may participate in any way during the round. On a 3-member team, team members will be designated by the coach for each round at the time of entry.

10. Forfeiting a round to gain an advantage for the school will be a violation except in elimination rounds when teams are from the same school competing for first and second or third and fourth.

11. See PF Rule #8 regarding computers.

Bishop Kelley Guidelines for Cross-Ex Debate1. Participation in this event is by invitation only. This is due to the limited number of

teams that Bishop Kelley can support with adequate materials and judges.2. Attending a camp in the summer is expected.3. The Coaches will make all decisions concerning partners and the cases to be run (if

there is a conflict).