A Student's Guide to Individual Events

by Barb Ebeling
 
“A Student’s Guide to Individual Events is a fundamental text for students in this activity.  A wealth of information for new and experienced coaches is provided.”
Nancy Fitzgerald
Director of Forensics
Grand Rapids Christian High School
MIFA Individual Events Committee Chair

“A Students Guide to Individual Events is an excellent tool for students embarking on their forensics careers.  The easy to use format will guide them every step of the way – from figuring out which event to prepare, to choosing materials, to perfecting the piece, and even maneuvering through a tournament.  Teachers and parents can use the book as they coach and teach their students as well.  Written by a successful teacher and coach of both middle and high school students, the information is clear, complete, and correct.”

Debora K. Marsh
Director of Forensics
Dexter High School
MIFA Forensic Council 

Oral communication skills are an essential part of a good education program.  One of the most beneficial activities fostering these skills for middle and high school students is the Individual Events program sponsored by the Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association (MIFA).  As a high school and collegiate competitor and Individual Events coach at the middle and high school level for nearly twenty years, I can personally testify to the merits of this program not only for myself but for the countless numbers of students who have been participants.  This program transforms lives.

The world of Individual Events is unique. It has its own language and sets of rules.  To the uninitiated, it seems daunting, complex, and mysterious.  This manual is an attempt to demystify the activity.  It is addressed primarily to students at both the middle and high school levels; however, it will also be beneficial to teachers whether used in the classroom or as part of an after school program.  I hope it encourages participation in this intellectually stimulating program and encourages more people to become involved.                    ~Barb

SECTIONS within the guide include:

Michigan Interscholastic Forensic Association (MIFA)
•    History
•    Activities Overview
•    Individual Events Descriptions

Helps and Hints
•    Benefits of the I.E. Program
•    General Expectations
•    Growth Opportunities
•    Handling Nervousness
•    Documentation

Choosing an Event
•    Interpretation
•    Limited Preparation
•    Prepared Public Address

Interpretation Events
•    Finding Literature
•    Sources
•    Cutting
•    Text Analysis
•    Introductions
•    Vocal Delivery
•    Physical Delivery
•    Sample Cutting
•    Character
•    Eye Focus
•    Duo and Multiple

Public Address Events
•    Topic
•    Researching the Topic
•    Keeping Track of Sources
•    Informative Topics
•    Oratory Topics
•    Sales Topics
•    Credibility
•    Informative Outline
•    Persuasive Outline
•    Sales Outline
•    Organizing Ideas
•    Writing Techniques
•    Use of Humor
•    Vocal Delivery
•    Physical Delivery
•    Visual Aids
•    Sample Speeches

Limited Preparation Events
•    MS/HS Outline
•    Extemporaneous
•    Impromptu – Middle School
•    Impromptu – High School
•    Broadcasting

Rehearsal Process

Polishing

Tournament Overview

Judging

 
To order

A Student’s Guide to Individual Events,
please send a check or money order made payable to Barbara Edeling and mail, with the order form, to:

3057 Rosefield Drive
Ann Arbor, MI 48108

Cost

$38 / guide plus $2.50 for shipping
$30 / guide for 10 copies or more with
                             shipping costs TBD

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the MIFA.

Contact Information for Barb
(734) 623 – 0345
Fax: (734) 449-9812
barbebeling@hotmail.com