APPENDIX 4

INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION 2nd SESERI i-BowlS 2013 RULES AND GUIDELINES 1.1 Background and Rationale 1.1 Public speaking is SESERI niche (ethos). Through public speaking competition, it is hoped that SESERI students can boost their confidence and upgrade themselves in the English language. Students have the opportunity to compete among and enhance their public speaking skills at international level. It is hoped that awareness is created on the importance of the English language and soft skills among the local and overseas participants. Public speaking is a good platform for students to learn the power of speech and showcase their public speaking skills. The experience will eventually make them a skilled communicator among High performance schools in Asia.

1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5

2.0

AIM 2.1 2.2 2.3 To encourage students to speak concisely, clearly and confidently. To promote the use of plain English. To promote better understanding amongst young people from different culture and backgrounds.

3.0 ELIGIBILITY 3.1 3.1 This competition is organized for high school students. This competition is open to all students of government-aided schools, private schools or International schools from 15-17 years of age..

4.0

PRIZES 4.1 4.2 Plaques and certificates of achievement will be awarded to the winners. Certificates of participation will be awarded to all participants.

5.0

COMPETITION RULES 5.1 The competition is divided into two sections, as follows: Section 1 Section 2 5.2 : : Prepared Speech Impromptu Speech any topic

For Section 1 (Prepared Speech), contestants are to observe the following rules: 5.2.1 Contestants will deliver a prepared speech on a topic of their choice for 7 minutes. 5.2.2 A warning bell will be sounded at the 6 th minute and a final bell at the 7th minute. Marks will be deducted thereafter.

5.3

For Section 2 (Impromptu Speech), contestants are to observe the following rules: 5.3.1 Contestants are given a topic four minutes before they are due to present the speech. 5.3.2 All contestants speak on the same topic. 5.3.3 The time allocated for the impromptu speech is four (4) minutes. 5.3.4 A warning bell will be sounded at the 3 rd minute and a final bell at the 4th minute. Marks will be deducted thereafter.

5.4

The topic for the Impromptu Speech will be prepared and provided by the organizing committee.

6.0

ADJUDICATION 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 A panel of at least 3 committee. judges will be appointed by the organizing

Points will be allocated according to the score sheet. Judges will collectively determine the placing by a clear majority vote. The decision of the judges is final. Individual marks will not be disclosed. The judging criteria for both the Prepared Speech and the Impromptu Speech are on two aspects as follows: 6.6.1 Subject Matter 6.6.1.1 6.6.1.2 6.6.1.3 6.6.1.4 6.6.1.5 Is the subject matter of the speech suitable and substantial? Is the speech original and intelligent in its exploration of the subject? Does the speaker develop the argument and the line of thought logically and effectively? Is there a satisfactory conclusion which lends a sense of finality to the speech? Does the speech carry a worthwhile and convincing message?

6.6.2 Use of Language 6.6.2.1 6.6.2.2 6.6.2.3 Is the message or point of view conveyed in clear, correct, comprehensible and appropriate language? Are tone, pace, pauses and projection effective? Does the speaker avoid distractions?

6.6.2.4 6.6.2.5

Is the speakers style confident, fluent and natural? Does the speaker: .. use ineffectual repetitions e.g. Ladies and Gentlemen? .. use pompous and condescending language? .. overdramatize? .. make awkward pauses? .. over depend on notes, reading, shuffling palm cards? .. use inappropriate quotations? .. make jokes that are irrelevant or inappropriate?

6.6.3 Additional judging criteria for the Impromptu Speech include the following: 6.6.3.1 6.6.3.2 6.6.3.3 6.6.3.4 6.6.3.5 Does the speaker demonstrate the ability to think clearly and creatively? Does the speaker express his views with conviction and / or humour? Are the speakers remarks accurate, relevant, interesting and lucid? Does the speaker use clear, correct, simple and fluent speech? Does the speakers impromptu speech vary greatly from the prepared speech?

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