NOF Explainer: Assigned Platform, a Perfect Start for Newcomers to Speech & Debate

Stepping into the world of speech and debate can be a bit daunting, especially if you're new or a tad nervous about public speaking. If the thought of speaking for a full 10 minutes makes you uneasy, you're in luck! Enter the Assigned Platform event. It’s a fresh, beginner-friendly category tailor-made for newcomers or anyone who's ever felt the butterflies before taking the stage.

What's the Assigned Platform Event?

Think of it as a short and sweet speech challenge. You'll be given a list of topics two weeks before the tournament. Pick one that you find interesting, and create a 3-minute speech around it. The best part? You choose how you present it. Whether you want to inform, persuade, or even tell a story, it's up to you!

A Simple Guide for First-Timers:

1. Picking Your Topic: From the list, choose something that catches your interest. If it excites you, chances are, it'll excite your audience too!

2. Make it Yours: This is your chance to add a personal touch. Share your thoughts, experiences, or anything else that makes your speech stand out. Remember, it's all about being genuine and authentic.

3. Choosing a Style: If you're good at convincing people, go persuasive. If you love sharing facts, go informative. Or, if you enjoy storytelling, weave a narrative around your topic. The freedom's yours!

4. Keep It Short & Engaging: You only have 3 minutes, so every second counts. Make sure your speech is crisp, to the point, and grabs attention from start to finish.

5. Use of a Notecard: Nervous about forgetting your lines? No worries. You're allowed one notecard for those key points. While it's great to speak from the heart, having that safety net can be a confidence booster.

Why It's Perfect for Newbies and Nervous Speakers:

• Short Duration: 3 minutes is manageable, especially if you're anxious about long speeches. It’s a great way to build confidence!

• Flexible Format: You're not boxed into a specific style. This lets you play to your strengths.

• Notecard Allowed: For those worried about forgetting, this little helper can be your best friend.

• Practice Makes Perfect: With just two weeks to prepare, it encourages regular practice, which can help ease those nerves.

Bottom Line

To all the teams out there with new and budding speakers, or anyone with a touch of stage fright, the Assigned Platform event is a warm and welcoming start. Dive in, give it a shot, and watch as it becomes a launching pad for many more speech and debate adventures!

Please review the full event description in our bylaws.