Competition Events
Learn about the NSDA’s array of competitive speech and debate events.
The purpose of the Competition Events Guide is to assist members in learning about
the events the Association offers.
Get to know NSDA events
These manuals are designed for Speech and Debate Teams, Tournament Procedures, Event Rules, and Judging Instructions.
Access the rules for NSDA events
We’ll provide an overview of NSDA events, including the topics, preparation, and performance practices in each event as well as share recommendations.
Choosing Competition Events
Speech
Speech involves a presentation by one or two students that is judged against a similar type of presentation by others in a round of competition. There are two general categories of speech events, public address events and interpretation events. Public address events feature a speech written by the student, either in advance or with limited prep, that can answer a question, share a belief, persuade an audience, or educate the listener on a variety of topics. Interpretation events center upon a student selecting and performing published material and appeal to many who enjoy acting and theatre.
Interpretation Events
Select an event to learn more.
Public Address Events
Select an event to learn more.
Debate
Debate challenges individuals or teams of students to persuasively argue for and against a topic. A debater’s goal is to convince a judge that, as a general principal, their side of the topic is more valid. Through extensive research and preparation, students in debate develop a deep understanding of complex topics, honing their ability to think critically and analyze important issues from multiple perspectives.
