Oral Interpretation (OI) is a combination of Poetry (POE) and Prose (PRO). Occasionally you may see these events separated out individually (such as at NSDA Nationals), but typically they are joined together. Each round alternates between Poetry and Prose, with a coin flip to determine which goes first. Read about each below.
POETRY:
From the National Speech and Debate Association:
Using a selection or selections of literature, students provide an interpretation of Poetry with a time limit of 10 minutes, including introduction. Poetry is characterized by writing that conveys ideas, experiences, and emotions through language and expression. Students may choose traditional poetry, often characterized by rhyme or rhythm, or nontraditional poetry, which often has a rhythmic flow but is not necessarily structured by formal meter (meter is a beat, pattern, or structure, such as iambic pentameter). Students may not use prose, nor drama (plays), in this category. Students must use a manuscript in Poetry, which typically consists of a small three-ring binder with page protectors. Reading from a book or magazine is prohibited.
Some poems used in poetry programs:
- Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl
- Soda Jerk by Cynthia Rylant
- Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
Interested in POE? Take a look at http://www.speechanddebate.org/poetry, or visit the Jefferson City High School, MO team’s excellent website to find some ideas and resources for pieces.
—
PROSE:
VIDEO: Sample Prose Interpretation
From the National Speech and Debate Association:
Using short story, parts of a novel, or other published work of prose, students provide an interpretation of one or more selections with a time limit of 10 minutes, including introduction. Typically a single piece of literature, Prose can be drawn from works of fiction or non-fiction. Prose corresponds to usual (ordinary/common) patterns of speech and may combine elements of narration and dialogue. Students may not use poetry, nor drama (plays), in this category. Students must use a manuscript in Prose, which typically consists of a small three-ring binder with page protectors. Reading from a book or magazine is prohibited.
Sample Pieces:
- Imagination: A Memoir by Elizabeth McCracken
- Long Shadow of Little Rock by Daisy Bates
- The Fault in our Stars by John Green
Interested in PRO? Visit http://www.speechanddebate.org/prose for more information, or visit the Jefferson City High School, MO team’s excellent website to find some ideas and resources for pieces.