General Rules for the Contest
General Speech Contest Rules
Speeches should be five (5) to seven (7) minutes long. The purpose of the speech is to apply the following principles of Rotary International’s 4-Way Test to a current ethical issue.
Of the things we think, say, or do:
- Is it the TRUTH?
- Is it FAIR to all concerned?
- Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
- Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"
Students are challenged to identify a topic they feel passionate about and to adopt a point of view from which they will seek to persuade others. It should be something from the speaker’s personal experience or general knowledge. There are no restrictions regarding the choice of topic as long as it is not blatantly offensive.
Each part of the Four-Way Test should be addressed during the speech. They should be specifically stated, as the intent of the speech is to use the 4-Way Test to resolve an issue. Each part could be used to prove either a positive or negative point.
Speeches shall be from five (5) to seven (7) minutes. Penalty points at the rate of 2 points for every 15 seconds will be subtracted for infractions over or under the minimum or maximum time limits. A green signal will be displayed at five (5) mins and remain displayed for one (1) min. A yellow signal will be displayed at six (6) mins and remain on for one (1) min. A red signal will be displayed at seven (7) mins and stay on until the conclusion of the speech. Timing begins when speakers start speaking.
Note cards may be used to recover from a memory lapse and avoid embarrassment, but they should be unobtrusive and not relied upon during the speech. Even if a speaker chooses not to use note cards, they may have them at hand in case of an emergency. Use of props should be limited.
THANK YOU for your participation in the Rotary 4-Way Test Speech Contest! Please sign and date below and send a digital copy to your teacher or sponsoring Rotarian.
I promise to abide by the rules of the Rotary 4-Way Test Speech Contest as outlined above and understand that I may be disqualified if I do not follow these rules.
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