Individual · Live speech
Prepared Speech
Make an idea worth listening to.
3–5 minutes
Write and deliver your own prepared speech.
What you make or do
- Write and practice your own speech about the conference theme.
- Deliver it to judges in three to five minutes.
This year’s challenge
The 2027 conference theme is “Forward to Fifty.”
How the competition works
Before the event
Write and practice your speech so that it relates to the current theme and fits the three-to-five-minute limit.
First round
Give your prepared speech to judges.
If you advance
Give your speech again in the semifinal round.
Know before you choose: Note cards are allowed. Props, computers, display boards, and costumes are not.
How your work is scored
Judges assess your content, stage presence, and organization. Speaking time affects your score.
Read the full 2027 theme or preparation information
Official files to keep
- Download the full event guide (PDF)
- Download the official rubric or score sheet (PDF)
- Download the general rules (PDF)
- Download the complete guide with the forms appendix (PDF)
Read the guide, current challenge, and updates together. This overview helps you choose; the official documents give the full requirements.
Guide evidence: 259–262. Annual sources checked September 10, 2026. These are national competition rules; your teacher will confirm any regional or state changes.
Interested in this event?
Use the notes sheet to check what this choice would involve.
Start my competition notes