Description of Program Oral Interpretation (POI)

Using a combination of prose, poetry, and drama, students construct a program up to 10 minutes in length using at least two out of the three genres: prose, poetry, and drama (plays). With a spotlight on argumentation and performative range, Program Oral Interpretation (POI) focuses on a student’s ability to combine multiple genres of literature centered around a single theme. Competitors are expected to portray multiple characters. No props

or costumes may be used except for the manuscript. Performances also include an introduction written by the student to contextualize the performance and state the titles and authors used in the program.

NSDA Description of Program Oral Interpretation

Rules for Interpretation 

LCHS students should access the NSDA Resources for further helps in preparing this event.

2024 NSDA Program Oral Interpretation Finalist Leif Carlson - “Through The Haze” 

NSDA 2023 POI National Champion Isabella Royer - “Can You Hear The Screams Now?”

Ella Schnake "Debate Like a Girl" - Program Oral Interpretation Champion - Nationals 2019