Quotation: 

Not more than 150 words of the script may be direct quotation from any other speech or writing and such quotations must be identified in a printed copy of the oration supplied prior to registration. Extensive paraphrasing from other sources is prohibited. 

Script: 

The Speaker's script must:

• identify the quoted materials

• state the number of quoted words

• include a work cited page in APA or MLA format for both sources, and for Info, published pictoral aids.

• For State, District, & National Tournaments: both the orator and the coach must attest by signature that the oration is the original work of the contestant.

It is the responsibility of the contestant to have a script ready upon request should the speech be challenged. At the National Tournament, all quarterfinalists in OO & INFO are required to turn in a printed, typed copy of their manuscript, including a works cited page, to the tournament official before noon on the third day of competition.

Audio/visual aids may or may not be used to supplement and reinforce the message. 

If used, the audio/visual aids should enhance or support the message rather than distract from the overall effectiveness of the presentation. 

During the presentation, no electronic equipment is permitted. Electronic equipment is defined as any object requiring an electrical cord, battery, or solar power to operate it (projectors, cell phones, radios, iPads, computers, etc.). 

The use of live animals or any additional people as visual aids is not allowed during the speech. 

No Costumes: Items of dress put on and/or removed for illustration during the course of the presentation are considered costumes and may not be part of the contestant’s presentation. 

Visual aids may not violate policies as dictated by local and state law (weapons, drugs, etc.) 

Contestants may not distribute items to the judges or audience before, during, or after the round. This includes but is not limited to food, objects, handouts, flyers, and promotional merchandise. The host school is not responsible for providing any facilities, equipment, including tables, chairs, or easels, or assistance in a contestant’s use of visual aids. 

In order to facilitate the video recording of the final round at the National Tournament, one table will be provided for use by the contestants. This provision is only for the final round. Expedient set up and take down of aids is expected. 

If a visual aid displays published pictorial material, the source must be included in the work-cited page but does not need to be cited orally