What is Forensics?
Forensics is an extra-curricular activity available to any student in grades 6-8 with the goal of developing communication skills and self-confidence through opportunities for participation and success in public speaking.
Forensics participants prepare an oral presentation with the help of a Forensics teacher or parent coach. At Forensics meets they perform with other students who have prepared for the same category of presentation. They are evaluated by trained judges according to a set of criteria for each category. At the end of a meet, participants will have earned either participation ribbons or trophies. Critique sheets are given to each student on the Monday following the meet. The information is used to help prepare and improve for the next meet.
Practice times are arranged with each student’s coach. Depending upon the coach’s availability, practices may be scheduled during lunch break, after school, or on weekends. The meet schedule will be provided at the beginning of the season. There are usually about 6 meets that we attend. The meets are held after school on Fridays or on Saturdays. Parents will need to provide some transportation. Carpooling may also be arranged.
General Schedule
The Forensics Season begins with information meetings and registration in November.
In December, students are paired up with coaches and begin to select their category andto prepare.
In January, students practice with a coach one or two times each week.
From the end of January through March, team members attend weekly meets, and continue practicing.
The season ends in March with the State Meet for those who qualified.
Why Join Forensics?
Forensics provides a great opportunity to develop public speaking skills as part of a school team. Plus, it’s a lot of FUN!
Types of Forensic Pieces
Like to make people laugh? Select and present a Humorous Solo piece.
Like to make people think? Write and present an Informative or Persuasive speech.
Inspired by a famous speech? Present it with your own style.
Enjoy poetry? Share your own poetry, or poems of a favorite author.
Feel more comfortable in a group? Try Group Acting or Group Interpretation
Good at working with a partner, and like to be creative? Try Infomercial or Special Occasion
Want to share a hobby or talent? Try Demonstration (this can be one in a pair or individually)
Like to tell fantastic stories? Try Storytelling.
Quick thinker? Try Impromptu Speaking.
Questions? Contact Tracy Lehnerz ([email protected]) with any questions!