➢Contestants must be either a high school, junior high, or middle school student, grades 6th -12th,

 ➢Homeschooled children are eligible. 

➢ Contestants must be a Harford County resident.

➢  Contestants must show a valid school ID or proof of age.

➢  Contestants must speak on the official topic, “What happens to a dream deferred…”

and use it in their speech at least once.

➢  Speeches should be inspirational. No politics or offensive language allowed.

➢  Speeches must be at least 4 minutes but not over 5 minutes in length.

➢  A contestant will be penalized if the speech is timed to be under 4 minutes or over 5 minutes. The penalty will be one point for every 15 seconds or a fraction of over or under the allotted time. This penalty will be determined by the official timekeeper.

➢  Props, special costumes, clothing, or prompters are not permitted.

➢  Speeches must be delivered in English.

➢  Copyrighted or quoted material must be verbally identified.

➢  Contestants must prepare his or her own speech.

➢  Notes are not authorized.

• Failure to use the official topic - 3 points
• Failure to identify non-original material – disqualification
• Use of props, special costumes/clothing or prompters – disqualification
• Time penalties – 1 point for every 15 seconds or a fraction of over or under the allotted time.

• Poise – appearance, and personality: 20 points
• Content of Speech – subject adherence, theme, content, and logic: 35 points
• Delivery & Presentation – voice, volume, pronunciation, gestures, eye contact, sincerity, and emphasis: 35 points
• Overall Effectiveness – appeal, impression, attitude, and effect: 10 points.