The COMS Department Speech Tournament is a semi-annual event where any COC student can compete by delivering an informative or persuasive speech in person, or by submitting a social media video asynchronously. You can even reuse a speech from one of your classes! By participating, you have the chance to win cash prizes, enhance your transfer application with an award, or earn extra credit in certain COMS classes.
The last day to register is Thursday, May 15th at 6:00 PM. The in-person events (informative and persuasive speaking) will take place on Friday, May 16th in Mentry Hall 253 at 8:30AM. Social media videos are an asynchronous submission and do not require you to come to campus - winners will be notified via email.
Informative & Persuasive Speaking Instructions:
1. Speech Category:
Deliver an informative or persuasive speech at the in-person competition.
- Informative: Educates the audience on a specific topic with factual evidence without attempting to persuade.
- Persuasive: Aims to convince the audience to believe a specific viewpoint or to take action.
2. Speech Requirements:
- Length: Speeches can be a maximum of 10 minutes long.
- Sources: Speeches must have a minimum of one credible source, but more are encouraged.
- Visual Aids: Visual aids are welcome but not required.
- Dress Code: There is not a strict dress code - just dress smart if you can!
Social Media Videos Instructions:
1. Video Category: Students may submit one video for each category, but they must submit different videos if participating in both categories.
- General Video: Create a video on any topic that could hypothetically be shared on a social media platform. (ex: How the movie Jaws was made)
- Campus Resource: Create a video highlighting one specific campus resource at COC. (ex: TLC, ICC, counseling, etc.)
2. Video Requirements:
- Length: Each video must be between 1 to 3 minutes in duration. Videos that are below or above this limit may be disqualified.
- Subtitles: Videos must include subtitles to ensure accessibility for all viewers.
- Shareability: Videos must be uploaded to a platform where they can be shared easily, such as Google Drive or YouTube. Ensure your video is set to public or unlisted so judges can view it without restrictions. Videos that are not viewable will be disqualified.
3. Submission Deadline: All videos must be submitted by Thursday, May 15th at 6:00 PM. Late submissions will not be accepted.
