Platform Events
The Texas Forensic Association offers a variety of Platform Events that bolster a student's public speaking skills. All Platform events are designed to engage students in the discovery and analysis of various topics and current events, use research effectively, and organize information in a way that connects to their audience. Use the buttons below to learn more about each event!
Extemporaneous Speaking
Extemporaneous Speaking is a limited preparation event where students draw three topics, select one, and have 30 minutes to prepare a 7-minute speech. There are two separate divisions: United States Extemp and International Extemp. Extemporaneous speaking requires students to develop a strong knowledge of current events, research skills, and public speaking skills with minimal practice beforehand.
Informative Speaking
Informative Speaking is a 10-minute memorized event where students write a speech on a topic of their choosing. The speech should be informative in nature and well-supported with cited research. Students are also given the unique opportunity to use visual aids for this event. Students should be able to identify universal importance within their chosen topic. This event teaches research, presentation skills, and teaching tools.
Original Oratory
Original Oratory is a 10-minute memorized event where students write a speech on a topic of their choosing. The speech should be persuasive in nature and well-supported with cited research. Students should identify a problem and pose potential solutions to the problem through the organization of their speech. This event teaches advocacy, research, and presentation skills.
