CTK Forensics Program
Cougars Speaking with Inspiration
Do you want to make a difference in the world with your words? Do you want everyone to understand you when you have something important to say? Do you want to echo the words of the greatest speakers of all time? Perhaps Forensics is the activity for you.
What is Forensics?
According to the National Catholic Forensic League, forensics is “the art of formal public speaking and presentation”. Public speaking not only comprises speaking, it entails body language, voice modulation, and structured speech. It is a critical skill that can be used throughout life.
What does the Forensics Team at CTK actually do?
The team begins meeting in November. The focus through December is orientation and introduction to Forensics. The students also explore and practice various forms of speech. Beginning in January, the students will meet more frequently and begin preparation for the Forensics Tournament in the Spring. With the help of the Forensics coaches, the students will create and revise presentations so they can successfully participate and improve. The team members help each other prepare for their events, and generally enjoy the activity and the socialization associated with it at the same time that they learn.
What is the Forensics Tournament?
The Forensics Tournament is held in the Spring at Christ the King School. Last year, 8 Tidewater Catholic Middle Schools participated in the competition. Students are able to choose from several categories of speeches or interpretive readings to present at the Tournament. The categories are declamation, humorous drama, serious drama, impromptu, multiple reading, poetry, prose, and original work. Students will explore which category best utilizes their talents, select a work which interests them, practice presenting their selection, and compete within their category. Students are then evaluated based on their presentation.
Who can participate on the Forensics Team?
The team is open to all students in grades 6, 7, and 8. Prior formal public speaking experience is not required, just the desire to learn and have fun.
What do the students who have participated on the Forensics Team have to say about their experiences?
What was your favorite moment during Forensics?
“Reading an Abbott and Costello skit was so funny that I had to make sure I didn't laugh too hard while performing it.”
What was your biggest accomplishment?
“Getting second place in Impromptu...I love my trophy.”
What was your favorite category of Forensics Competition?
“I like Declamation. Being able to read Martin Luther King Jr's I Have A Dream speech was awesome.”
How did you feel while presenting your speech at the Competition?
“I felt a little nervous beforehand, but with all of the practice that I had done, when I started speaking before the judges I was ready.”
How did you improve in public speaking?
“Being able to make eye contact with a room full of people became easier.”
Why do you want to be involved on the Forensics Team?
“I have a lot of fun with my friends and I want my friends to understand me when I make a speech.”
How can I get involved with Forensics?
Please remain alert for a more specific information and sign up form to be distributed at school, or click on this link to download the form:
2009-2010 Forensics Student Sign-up form (in work PDF format - please check back ).
Also, please feel free to contact Mrs. Anthony for more information. She can be reached through the school office at 625-4951, or via email at banthony@ctkparish.org.