Arrival & Attendance
- Students must report 15 minutes before the session.
- Late entry only with teacher permission.
- Attendance compulsory for registered participants.
Behaviour
- Maintain respectful tone toward judges and peers.
- No mocking, laughing, or interrupting speakers.
- Follow debate etiquette at all times.
Clarity of Speech
- Speak clearly, loudly, and confidently.
- Avoid mumbling or reading from notes.
- Use simple, understandable language.
Duration
- Standard speaking time: 1–3 minutes (school level).
- Warning bell at 30 seconds remaining.
- Stop immediately at final bell.
Extempore Format
- Topic given on the spot.
- Thinking time: 30–60 seconds.
No written preparation allowed.
Fair Opportunity
- Topics assigned randomly.
- All students receive equal time.
- Judges remain unbiased.
Grammar & Language
- Use grammatically correct sentences.
- Avoid slang or offensive words.
- Prefer formal speaking style.
Honesty & Originality
- Speak in your own words.
- No memorized speeches.
- Avoid copying another speaker’s ideas.
Introduction Technique
- Students should:
- Define the topic
- Give context or example
- State viewpoint clearly
Judging Criteria
- Evaluation based on:
- Confidence
- Content relevance
- Language clarity
- Structure
- Creativity
- Body language
- Time management
Knowledge Use
- Use facts, examples, stories, or quotes.
- Avoid spreading misinformation.
- Logical reasoning preferred.
Listening Skills
- Other students must listen silently.
- No prompting or helping speakers.
- Applause only after completion.
Microphone Etiquette
- Hold mic at proper distance.
- Do not tap or blow into mic.
- Speak steadily.
Neutral & Respectful Opinions
- Avoid hate speech.
- Respect religion, gender, culture, nationality.
- Sensitive topics handled responsibly.
Opening Lines
- Encourage strong openings:
- Question
- Short story
- Surprising fact
- Definition
- Quote
Posture & Body Language
- Stand straight.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Use natural hand gestures.
- Avoid fidgeting.
Question Handling (if allowed)
- Listen fully before answering.
- Respond politely.
- Admit if unsure.
Relevance to Topic
- Stay focused.
- Avoid unrelated storytelling.
- Judges may deduct marks.
Structure Model
- Recommended flow:
- Introduction
- Main Point 1
- Main Point 2
- Example / Evidence
- Conclusion
Time Management
- Do not finish too early.
- Do not exceed limit.
- Plan mentally: Intro–Body–Conclusion.
Use of Language Options
- Allowed languages: English / Malayalam / Hindi (as per school rule).
- Mixing languages discouraged unless necessary.
Voice Modulation
- Use variation in tone.
- Emphasize key points.
- Avoid monotone delivery.
Warnings & Discipline
- First violation: verbal warning.
- Repeated violation: marks deduction.
- Serious misconduct: disqualification.
eXpression of Ideas
- Encourage creativity.
- Use imagination, comparisons, analogies.
- Personal insight appreciated.
Young Speakers Encouragement
- Focus on participation over perfection.
- Teachers give feedback after session.
- Promote confidence building.
Zero Notes Rule
- No mobile phones.
- No paper notes.
- Only spontaneous speaking allowed.
Suggested Topic Categories
- Social issues
- Science & technology
- Environment
- Education
- Ethics & values
- Current affairs
- Fun creative topics
Recommended Marking Scheme (100 marks)
- Content – 25
- Confidence – 15
- Language – 15
- Structure – 15
- Creativity – 10
- Body Language – 10
- Time Management – 10