The Public Speaking Contest gives 4-H’ers the opportunity to write and speak about a subject of interest. It can be about a 4-H project, hobby, event, community, family or trip. This year’s contest is on Saturday, February 8, 2014, at 6:30 p.m. at the Carvel Research and Education Center.
You have lots of time to write and practice your speech. First, select a topic. Collect information on your topic. When choosing a topic, consider your other 4-H projects, your pets, school activities, or just a special community issue that you would like to stress. Your speech can be serious, funny or sad. All speeches should be informational and they will be scored on the organization of the information, use of communication skills and contact with the audience. Write your speech. Remember a speech has three parts—an introduction, body and conclusion or closing. Practice your speech to gain confidence and to keep within your time limit. The contest is open to 4-H’ers 8-19 years of age. Each age division is judged separately.
Age Minimum Speech Time Maximum Speech Time
8-9 1.5 minutes 3 minutes
10-11 2 minutes 4 minutes
12-13 4 minutes 6 minutes
14-19 5 minutes 7 minutes
*1 point will be deducted from the final score for every 15 seconds over/under the required length.
NEW DIVISION: Extemporaneous—Ages 13 and older. 3-5 minute speech. Participants’ prepare a speech (3-5 minutes) from a choice of 3 random topics. Participants have 20 minutes on site to prepare the speech and will have access to writing helps. The speech will be presented during the Public Speaking Contest. This Division does not advance to a State Contest.
Entries are due to the county office by Monday, January 27, 2014.
Online Entry Form
2014 Public Speaking Contest Paper Form
Age divisions 8-9 and 12-13 are asked to bring a snack or dessert. Ages 10-11 and 14+ are asked to bring a beverage. While the judges take their time with their usually hard task, families enjoy the break, 4-H slide show and refreshments that everyone brings.