Massachusetts Forensic League Events
Please note that the MFL offers many events that you will not find in the NFL or the NCFL. Events that are offered by these national organizations may have rules that differ in the MFL. Please read them carefully.
Children's Literature (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student should present material designed to read to children so that it may be understood and appreciated by a young child or children. (Note: This does not mean the literature must fall under nursery level only). The selection must be from a single published fictional or non-fictional story, play, a single long poem or a program of poetry. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle and end). No costumes or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Dramatic Performance (ballot)
This is a memorized event in which the student presents a memorized selection of literature. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author, and should develop the narrative and/or character(s) via vocal and physical techniques. The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem or program of poetry. Material from more than one author is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Duo Interpretation (ballot)
Duo is a unique, memorized event challenging two performers to render a dynamic moment utilizing appropriate vocal expression, gesture, and interaction between partners. As a unit, the two performers will vocally and physically respond to each other’s verbal and non-verbal cues while maintaining an off-stage focus. Thus, the scene requiring disciplined interplay between partners and the environment is created in the minds of the audience. The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. Speakers may not take lines belonging to one character and apply them to a different character in the performance. The material may be humorous or dramatic, or may combine both tones, depending on the work selected. Performers may play more than one character if they choose, but it is not required. No costumes or props may be used in the presentation
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Extemporaneous Speaking (ballot)
The students will draw three topics of current interest from the material prepared by the tournament director. Usually topics are based on articles taken from recent issues of publications from major media outlets. The student must pick one of the three topics to prepare for a presentation. The students will have a 30 minute preparation period during which personal information files of books, magazines, and/or newspapers may be used to put together the presentation. After the preparation period, the student should deliver a speech to be evaluated for content and delivery. A single note-card with no more than 50 written words is permitted. If a note-card is to be used, the judge must review it prior to the presentation. Any note-card violation should be brought to the attention of the prep room coordinator prior to the speech; or, the student may choose to proceed without the use of the note-card. The topic slip must be presented to the judge in the round. No visual aids are allowed. Students are not allowed to use computers or any other electronic devices while preparing their speeches.
Time: 7 min. maximum [ 30 second grace]; no minimum.
Group Discussion (ballot)
Group Discussion is an event in which students discuss and argue a topic set at the beginning of the round. The topics will present an issue, designed to introduce a variety of conflicting opinions. Students will be given the generic nature of the issue in the invitation, with a specific focus to be discussed at the start of the round. Students should research the topic in advance and may bring notes and outside resources into the competition. After the topic is revealed, students will be given 5 minutes to formulate their argument, draw for speaking order, and then each shall be given 2 minutes to deliver an opening statement. Then an open discussion period of up to 15 minutes shall follow in which the issue is discussed and criteria for a resolution or recommendation are established, followed by another period of open discussion of up to 15 minutes to present and discuss possible solutions that meet those criteria. The students will then have 1 minute to prepare their final arguments and 2 minutes to present their final argument in the reverse order of their opening.
Time: See above description.
Impromptu (ballot)
On the speaker's turn, he/she will select three topics from an envelope (or other such container), choosing one of them to perform. After the choice is made, the judge begins to time the event. The contestant has a total of 6 minutes to prepare and deliver his/her presentation. The time may be divided up as the contestant chooses. (Ex: 2 minutes prep, 4 minutes speaking). No outside materials, notes, props or costumes shall be used during presentation. A student has the option of using up to one 3"x5" index card of notes created during the preparation period. Impromptu topics may include proverbs, words, events, quotations or famous people.
Time: No minimum time, but the contestant must cover the subject adequately, 6 min. max., 30 second grace period.
Multiple Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. A group of 3-8 students will present a scene or scenes from published material. The material may be either serious or humorous in nature. Speakers may not take lines belonging to one character and apply them to a different character in the performance. Performers may play more than one character if they choose, but it is not required. The students may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s; however, the focus of the performers should be off-stage. The students may only touch and make eye contact during their own written introduction. If lines from the selection are used in the introduction, the contestants must adhere to the rules of the event. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle and end). The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem, or a program of poetry. Material from more than one source is not allowed, with the exception of poetry programs, sound effects and music. The material must be found in printed literature. Props, costumes, and other theatrical devices are prohibited; however, reader’s stands, tables, chairs or stools may be used.
Time: 12 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Novice Extemporaneous Speaking (ballot)
Same as Extemporaneous Speaking. Limited to first year forensic competitors ONLY.
Novice Reading (ballot)
This event is limited to first year forensic competitors ONLY and requires the use of a manuscript. The student will present material either from prose, poetry, or drama. Children’s literature is acceptable in this category. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle, and end.) The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Oratorical Declamation (ballot)
Declamation is a memorized event in which the student delivers a speech written by some other person. The speech must have been presented as a public address and found in print, on video, DVD or on an audio recording. Speeches that have been used only for forensic competition are not acceptable, even if they can be found in print. The presentation should include an introduction that provides the title of the speech and the author, and should include relevant information about the theme and date of the oration or its historical significance. Dialects of the original speaker need not be mimicked. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 min maximum [30 second grace]; no minimum
Original Oratory (ballot)
Oratory is a memorized event in which the student presents original thought and commentary on a topic of his/her choice. Generally, but not always, the speech is of a persuasive nature. No manuscripts may be used during the presentation. A maximum of 150 directly quoted words is allowed in the oration. Students will be judged on their delivery skills and ability to discuss the topic effectively and intelligently. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 min. maximum [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Play Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student should present a scene or scenes from a published play. The material may be either serious or humorous in nature. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character or characters. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle and end). The selection must be from a single published play. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the play may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Poetry Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student will present material chosen from published poetry. Students may present either a single, long poem or several shorter poems connected either by theme or by author. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece(s) and the author(s). The poetry need not have a rhyming pattern. Free verse poetry is acceptable in this event. Verse dramas such as For Colored Girls . . ., including the plays of Shakespeare, are not classified as poetry. The material must be found in printed literature. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Prose Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student will present material chosen from a single published short story, novel, or essay, fictive or non-fictive. The material may be either serious or humorous in nature. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle, and end.) No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Radio Broadcasting (ballot)
Radio Broadcasting is a public address event in which a student presents a classic, "top-of-the-hour" news broadcast in the voice of a single professional broadcaster. In this event, each student will receive a packet of news-copy or a newspaper. The student will report to a preparation room where s/he will have 30 minutes to select and organize the material into a 5-minute radio news broadcast. Judges will listen (not watch) the presentation. Throughout the broadcast, the timekeeper or judge will keep the student informed of time. Students may use minimal introductory remarks and transitional material. Advertising, including sponsorship taglines, is not allowed even if it is included in the copy provided by the tournament staff.
Time: 5 minutes; 5 second grace over or under time.
Student Congress (ballot)
In this event, students simulate a working House of Representatives or Senate of the US Congress. Students debate legislation they have written, conduct the rules and regulations of the chambers, and vote on enacting bills and resolutions. Students do not pretend to be members of the real US Congress, but instead speak for themselves and debate their own viewpoints. Students should debate the issues with eloquence and strong analysis and research on the legislation, as well as answering and countering the arguments of the opposing side where appropriate. Students should also conduct themselves fairly and responsibly in the workings of the chamber, and may be penalized for inappropriate or disruptive actions therein. The Student Congress will be run under the direction of a league official called the Parliamentarian. The Congress Chair will maintain guidelines and rules of conduct for the Student Congress.
Lincoln-Doublas Debate
Policy Debate
Public Forum Debate(ballot)
Please note that the MFL offers many events that you will not find in the NFL or the NCFL. Events that are offered by these national organizations may have rules that differ in the MFL. Please read them carefully.
Children's Literature (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student should present material designed to read to children so that it may be understood and appreciated by a young child or children. (Note: This does not mean the literature must fall under nursery level only). The selection must be from a single published fictional or non-fictional story, play, a single long poem or a program of poetry. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle and end). No costumes or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Dramatic Performance (ballot)
This is a memorized event in which the student presents a memorized selection of literature. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author, and should develop the narrative and/or character(s) via vocal and physical techniques. The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem or program of poetry. Material from more than one author is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Duo Interpretation (ballot)
Duo is a unique, memorized event challenging two performers to render a dynamic moment utilizing appropriate vocal expression, gesture, and interaction between partners. As a unit, the two performers will vocally and physically respond to each other’s verbal and non-verbal cues while maintaining an off-stage focus. Thus, the scene requiring disciplined interplay between partners and the environment is created in the minds of the audience. The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. Speakers may not take lines belonging to one character and apply them to a different character in the performance. The material may be humorous or dramatic, or may combine both tones, depending on the work selected. Performers may play more than one character if they choose, but it is not required. No costumes or props may be used in the presentation
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Extemporaneous Speaking (ballot)
The students will draw three topics of current interest from the material prepared by the tournament director. Usually topics are based on articles taken from recent issues of publications from major media outlets. The student must pick one of the three topics to prepare for a presentation. The students will have a 30 minute preparation period during which personal information files of books, magazines, and/or newspapers may be used to put together the presentation. After the preparation period, the student should deliver a speech to be evaluated for content and delivery. A single note-card with no more than 50 written words is permitted. If a note-card is to be used, the judge must review it prior to the presentation. Any note-card violation should be brought to the attention of the prep room coordinator prior to the speech; or, the student may choose to proceed without the use of the note-card. The topic slip must be presented to the judge in the round. No visual aids are allowed. Students are not allowed to use computers or any other electronic devices while preparing their speeches.
Time: 7 min. maximum [ 30 second grace]; no minimum.
Group Discussion (ballot)
Group Discussion is an event in which students discuss and argue a topic set at the beginning of the round. The topics will present an issue, designed to introduce a variety of conflicting opinions. Students will be given the generic nature of the issue in the invitation, with a specific focus to be discussed at the start of the round. Students should research the topic in advance and may bring notes and outside resources into the competition. After the topic is revealed, students will be given 5 minutes to formulate their argument, draw for speaking order, and then each shall be given 2 minutes to deliver an opening statement. Then an open discussion period of up to 15 minutes shall follow in which the issue is discussed and criteria for a resolution or recommendation are established, followed by another period of open discussion of up to 15 minutes to present and discuss possible solutions that meet those criteria. The students will then have 1 minute to prepare their final arguments and 2 minutes to present their final argument in the reverse order of their opening.
Time: See above description.
Impromptu (ballot)
On the speaker's turn, he/she will select three topics from an envelope (or other such container), choosing one of them to perform. After the choice is made, the judge begins to time the event. The contestant has a total of 6 minutes to prepare and deliver his/her presentation. The time may be divided up as the contestant chooses. (Ex: 2 minutes prep, 4 minutes speaking). No outside materials, notes, props or costumes shall be used during presentation. A student has the option of using up to one 3"x5" index card of notes created during the preparation period. Impromptu topics may include proverbs, words, events, quotations or famous people.
Time: No minimum time, but the contestant must cover the subject adequately, 6 min. max., 30 second grace period.
Multiple Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. A group of 3-8 students will present a scene or scenes from published material. The material may be either serious or humorous in nature. Speakers may not take lines belonging to one character and apply them to a different character in the performance. Performers may play more than one character if they choose, but it is not required. The students may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s; however, the focus of the performers should be off-stage. The students may only touch and make eye contact during their own written introduction. If lines from the selection are used in the introduction, the contestants must adhere to the rules of the event. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle and end). The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem, or a program of poetry. Material from more than one source is not allowed, with the exception of poetry programs, sound effects and music. The material must be found in printed literature. Props, costumes, and other theatrical devices are prohibited; however, reader’s stands, tables, chairs or stools may be used.
Time: 12 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Novice Extemporaneous Speaking (ballot)
Same as Extemporaneous Speaking. Limited to first year forensic competitors ONLY.
Novice Reading (ballot)
This event is limited to first year forensic competitors ONLY and requires the use of a manuscript. The student will present material either from prose, poetry, or drama. Children’s literature is acceptable in this category. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle, and end.) The selection must be from a single published play, a fictional or non-fictional work, or a poem. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the literature may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Oratorical Declamation (ballot)
Declamation is a memorized event in which the student delivers a speech written by some other person. The speech must have been presented as a public address and found in print, on video, DVD or on an audio recording. Speeches that have been used only for forensic competition are not acceptable, even if they can be found in print. The presentation should include an introduction that provides the title of the speech and the author, and should include relevant information about the theme and date of the oration or its historical significance. Dialects of the original speaker need not be mimicked. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 min maximum [30 second grace]; no minimum
Original Oratory (ballot)
Oratory is a memorized event in which the student presents original thought and commentary on a topic of his/her choice. Generally, but not always, the speech is of a persuasive nature. No manuscripts may be used during the presentation. A maximum of 150 directly quoted words is allowed in the oration. Students will be judged on their delivery skills and ability to discuss the topic effectively and intelligently. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 min. maximum [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Play Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student should present a scene or scenes from a published play. The material may be either serious or humorous in nature. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character or characters. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle and end). The selection must be from a single published play. Material from more than one source is not allowed. The author’s words as published in the play may not be altered for this presentation with the exception that cutting is permitted.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Poetry Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student will present material chosen from published poetry. Students may present either a single, long poem or several shorter poems connected either by theme or by author. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece(s) and the author(s). The poetry need not have a rhyming pattern. Free verse poetry is acceptable in this event. Verse dramas such as For Colored Girls . . ., including the plays of Shakespeare, are not classified as poetry. The material must be found in printed literature. No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Prose Reading (ballot)
This event requires the use of a manuscript. The student will present material chosen from a single published short story, novel, or essay, fictive or non-fictive. The material may be either serious or humorous in nature. The student may use vocal skills, facial expressions, and/or hand gestures to develop a narrator and character/s. The presentation should include an introduction that cites the name of the piece and the author. The cutting should provide a cohesive scene or storyline (containing a definite beginning, middle, and end.) No scripts, costumes, or props may be used in the presentation.
Time: 10 minute maximum including introduction [30 second grace]; no minimum.
Radio Broadcasting (ballot)
Radio Broadcasting is a public address event in which a student presents a classic, "top-of-the-hour" news broadcast in the voice of a single professional broadcaster. In this event, each student will receive a packet of news-copy or a newspaper. The student will report to a preparation room where s/he will have 30 minutes to select and organize the material into a 5-minute radio news broadcast. Judges will listen (not watch) the presentation. Throughout the broadcast, the timekeeper or judge will keep the student informed of time. Students may use minimal introductory remarks and transitional material. Advertising, including sponsorship taglines, is not allowed even if it is included in the copy provided by the tournament staff.
Time: 5 minutes; 5 second grace over or under time.
Student Congress (ballot)
In this event, students simulate a working House of Representatives or Senate of the US Congress. Students debate legislation they have written, conduct the rules and regulations of the chambers, and vote on enacting bills and resolutions. Students do not pretend to be members of the real US Congress, but instead speak for themselves and debate their own viewpoints. Students should debate the issues with eloquence and strong analysis and research on the legislation, as well as answering and countering the arguments of the opposing side where appropriate. Students should also conduct themselves fairly and responsibly in the workings of the chamber, and may be penalized for inappropriate or disruptive actions therein. The Student Congress will be run under the direction of a league official called the Parliamentarian. The Congress Chair will maintain guidelines and rules of conduct for the Student Congress.
Lincoln-Doublas Debate
Policy Debate
Public Forum Debate(ballot)
