Willow Springs High School
What is Speech and Debate?
Speech and Debate is broken into two main classes, but you don't have to be enrolled in either to compete. Oral Interpretation is offered 4th block. In this class, you will learn all the skills needed to perform speaking or interpretive events like Humorous Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation, Original Oratory, Informative Speaking, and Radio Speaking. The other class, Contemporary Issues and Debate, is offered 3rd block and is co-taught with Mr. Wickins. In this class, you will learn to analyze current world issues. You will learn how to perform quality research and use it to support an argument in a variety of forms. The skills you will develop in this class will better help you prepare for Debate and Extemporaneous Speaking.
How Can I Join?
Do one, two, or all three of the following:
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1. Join Oral Interpretation 8th block.
2. Join Contemporary Issues 3rd block.
3. Just attend our after school practices and show up for tournaments!
Do I have to pay fees?
The only fee you have to pay is a one-time $20.00 National Speech and Debate Association membership fee. Twenty dollars pays for all four years of high school. In order to cover the cost of tournament registration fees, hotel rooms, and other travel expenses, you will participate in fundraisers.
Will I be performing on a stage, in front of a large audience?
No! Your performances will take place in a classroom, in front of one or two judges... who you will most likely never see again. That's why it is a great way to get some speaking experience before you actually do have to present in front of a large audience your Senior year.
But I'm afraid of public speaking!
Everybody is afraid of public speaking at first. But guess what? You have to do it anyway. In order to complete your senior year, you will be required to present on Senior Project Night in front of a live audience... one that will be much bigger than your S&D competition audience of two judges. In addition to many other benefits, Speech and Debate is a safe environment that allows you to build confidence at your own pace. Every single S&D member has reported that membership significantly helped in senior speech class and on Senior Project Night. Several members have even placed in the top 5 and were awarded a cash prize.