Just in time for National Poetry Month, Xenia Community Schools is hosting a speech contest! XCS students of all ages are invited to compete, with four prizes to be awarded in each age group. The first place winner in each category will also be invited to give their speech in person at a future meeting of the Board of Education.
Contestants may enter in one of four age group categories: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Our youngest competitors (K-2) will read a poem of their choice, while students in grades 3-12 will write a speech that can be up to three minutes long about their favorite poet and the impact of that poet's work.
PRIZES
Four awards will be given in every age group category:
- 1st place - $100 gift card
- 2nd place- $75 gift card
- 3rd place- $50 gift card
- Most creative- $50 gift card
WHAT IS INVOLVED?
Student speeches will be scored based on age-appropriate criteria. K-2 students should focus on qualities such as eye contact, speaking clearly and at a normal pace, and controlling their bodies. Older participants (grades 3-12) will be scored on speaking style and manner, body language, preparedness, speech content, and adhering to time limits.
HOW TO ENTER
The contest is open to all K-12 Xenia Community Schools students. All speeches must be submitted digitally using Screencastify (6-12) or Seesaw (K-5) to [email protected] by April 8, 2022.
WHY HOST A SPEECH CONTEST
The ability to speak well is a critical life skill, no matter what career path students take! Learning to be an effective speaker means speaking clearly and in complete sentences, making eye contact and controlling body language, using logic to persuade others, and even learning to construct an argument to make your point well. While many students — and adults! — fear public speaking, being able to communicate verbally can have a positive impact on students throughout their life.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Dr. Jill Hollander or Ms. Tara Palmer
DOWNLOAD the print-friendly flyer about the event.