Public Speaking

Age:  5 – 14 years of age

Participants must have achieved First Place in their State Junior Competition, or Best of Show at their Regional Competition. One participant from each age category may represent their state at National Convention. And the Best of Show winner may represent from their region.

Names, age, speech title, and State name must be turned in by November 1st to the National Junior Grange Director, Samantha Wilkins via email to junior@nationalgrange.org

Impromptu – (only at Regional Conferences) The contestant will draw 2 topics from a mystery bag and select one of those topics to give their speech on. The contestant must meet a minimum of 1minute with no more than 3 minutes for their speech.

Short Story – The contestant may present a short story or poem of their choosing. The contestant must meet a minimum of 1 minute with no more than 3 minutes for their story.

Prepared – Deliver a prepared speech written by the contestant. The contestant must meet a minimum of 3 minutes with a maximum of 5 minutes for their prepared speech. This speech must be on one of the following topics: How I can be a difference in my community, what makes a good leader, or Why the Junior Grange is important to me.

The contestant will be judged in the following areas:

Text: Content: Information gathered and included in speech. Composition: the speech was compiled in a manner that was easy to understand. Topic: Topic was clearly researched, and personal connection was made.

Delivery: Voice: spoke clearly and was easy to understand. Command of Audience: speaker can engage and captivate the audience with the message of the speech. Stage Presence: speaker is dressed neatly and appropriately, poised, and reduced nervousness. Expression: speech delivered with enthusiasm and emotion. Mannerisms and Gestures: Does not have any distracting mannerisms or gestures that are not purposeful and effective.

Impromptu Question and Answer: Response thought out and delivered without much hesitation.

Time: 1 point deducted for every 30 seconds under/over the time limit.

Outline: A copy of speech or the outline was presented to the judges.

1st-3rd place winners in each age category will receive cash prizes.
A Best of Show winner will also be announced and given the opportunity to present their speech at the Junior Grange Breakfast.

*Note no funding will be provided to attend the National Grange Session*