Speaking
Development Events are designed to develop the ability of all FFA
members to express themselves on a given subject. Students are
encouraged to develop their communication skills and learn to
formulate their remarks for presentation in a variety of situations.
The state finals of the speaking development events are held in
conjunction with the Texas FFA convention.
Extemporaneous Public Speaking
Members learn how to think on their feet
and make a case quickly and persuasively. Contestants are given 30
minutes to prepare a speech on one of three randomly selected
agricultural topics. After delivering the speech, contestants may
be asked questions about their speech and topic.
State winner advances to National
competition that is held during the National FFA Convention the end
of October.
Senior Prepared Public Speaking
Each contestant writes and delivers a
six- to eight-minute speech about a current agricultural subject of
their choice. Participants are then rated based on the written
speech, speech delivery and their answers to judges’ questions.
State winner advances to National
competition that is held during the National FFA Convention the end
of October.
Junior Prepared Public Speaking
Each contestant writes and delivers a
four- to six-minute speech about a current agricultural subject of
their choice. Participants are then rated based on the written
speech, speech delivery and their answers to judges’ questions.
Soil Stewardship Prepared Public
Speaking
Contestants write and deliver a six- to
eight-minute speech in accordance with the year’s theme selected by
the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board. Prior to
competition the speech must be presented to the local chapter and to
at least one civic or school group if competing above the district
level.