Individual Speech

by W. Kraai

The extracurricular speech activity has recently started the 2024 individual speech season. Participants may perform in a maximum of 2 of the many categories and be rated by an Iowa High School Speech Association (IHSSA) judge. The categories for individual speech are Public Address, Acting, Solo Musical Theatre, Interpretive Reading-Poetry, Interpretive Reading-Prose, Literary Program, Original Oratory, Spontaneous Speaking, Radio News Announcing, Expository Address, Storytelling, Improvisation, Reviewing, and After-Dinner Speaking.

The extracurricular speech activity is led by Mrs. Frances Reiter Reiter is an S – O alumni, and she participated in speech all four years of high school. Reiter believes that speech is for anyone and everyone. She stated, “I want to make every student aware of the opportunities speech has to offer.” Senior Tania Martinez stated, “ I have enjoyed individual speech quite a lot.” Mrs. Reiter says that she would like to continue being a speech coach at S – O, and is willing to put in time and dedication.

Students have already begun practice for their first competition on February 24, 2024. The scoring is the same as Large Group Speech; I (excellent), II (good), and III (poor). In order to receive a I rating to qualify for state finals, the students must do well in a variety of different criteria (based on the event). Some of those criteria include Characterization, Vocal Delivery, Physical Delivery, Performance Effectiveness, as well as many others. The Individuals performing will have had only 26 days to prepare their activities. However, based on previous years, Senior Keaton Croatt says, “I am optimistic for the individual speech contest.”