“I Love Cairns” Speech Competition Judging Criteria
“I Love Cairns” Speech Competition Judging Criteria
by Contestant Co-ordinator - Nicky Jurd
Theme
All speeches must incorporate the theme, “I Love the Cairns Region” and should be inspirational in nature. Speeches can be serious or entertaining; humorous or heart wrenching, a tall tale or factual. The Cairns region is defined as ranging from Mirriwinni (south of Babinda) to Cape Tribulation (north of Port Douglas) including all suburbs of Cairns.
..... Speech Content (50%)
Speech Development
The structure of the speech should include an introduction, body and conclusion.
Does the speech immediately engage the audience’s attention?
Does the speech proceed logically to a significant conclusion?
The speech structure should be supported by relevant examples, illustrations, facts and figures, anecdotes that run smoothly together and blends into a cohesive whole.
Effectiveness
The audience reception of the speech and is a largely subjective judgment of how the speech comes across. A judge will ask themselves if the purpose of the speech was clear; did the speech relate to the purpose; was the audience engaged throughout the speech and was the speech appropriate to the audience.
Speech Value
This is how well the speech provides something meaningful and original to the audience; how well the audience feels their understanding has been enhanced. The ideas should be important, but can be presented humorously.
...... Delivery (30%)
Physical
How well the content of the speech is communicated physically. This includes gestures, expressions and body movements to support points in the speech; effective use of the speaking area; and appearance to reinforce the message of the speech. This includes how the contestant dresses.
Voice
How well the speaker uses their voice to convey their message including variety in pitch, pace and volume. The voice should be clearly heard and understood by all the audience.
Manner
How well the speaker reveals their personality, displays enthusiasm and assurance and shows interest in the audience and confidence.
...... Language (20%)
Appropriateness
The choice of words should relate to the speech purpose, (“I Love Cairns”), and to the audience, (Cairns region residents and visitors). The language used should display a clear understanding of thoughts and suit the occasion.
Correctness
Correct grammar and correct pronunciation displaying a mastery of the words used.
