Extemporaneous Speaking

What is Extemp?

Do you stay up-to-date on the news? Do you prefer speaking off the top of your head, rather than memorizing a speech? If so, extemporaneous speaking might be for you!
 
There are two types of extemporaneous speaking: United States, and International. The only difference is whether your speech will focus on the U.S. or other countries around the world. For both types, you will draw three current events questions and choose one. Then, you have 30 minutes to prepare and present a 7-minute speech answering the question, using news articles and other materials that you have researched and saved in advanced.​​

Extemp Resources

NSDA Event Guide

MSHSAA Event Rules

Example EX Ballot

---

Past Extemp Questions

​United States Extemp

• How will the FDA approval of vaccines for 5-11 year olds change the course of the Covid-19 Pandemic?
  
• What infrastructural improvement is most needed to deal with climate change?
  
• What can Democrats do to stop a “red wave” in 2022?
  
• Is Eric Adams the future of the Democratic Party?
  
• Should legal immigration be expanded to address our labor shortage?
  

International Extemp

• Was the 2021 Global Climate Summit a success?
• Should Japan re-militarize in response to China and North Korea?
  
• Should the international community continue to provide food aid to North Korea?
  
• Is Mexico making any progress in its efforts against illegal drug cartels?
  
• Will we see populism continue to increase its influence in Western Europe?