Students speak minds in competitive speeches, improve communication skills

Speech Club is a new activity for students who love speaking and participating in class. Speech team is an IHSA designated activity competition which consists of competitors participating in different categories of speech. The competitors must either memorize a speech on a certain topic or make up a speech on-the-spot at competitions. The different topics on which speeches could be given are extensive; some categories include drama, acting, radio broadcasting and more. The main competitive season of speech is during the winter from December through February. However, joining Speech Club does not mean that you have to be competitive.

“The club is aimed toward students who like public speaking or creating their own content,” said club moderator Ms. Megan O’Neill ‘12.

Speech Club does not limit what types of topics a member can discuss. The experience that is gained from participating in speech club is quite unlike the designated speeches assigned by teachers in classes.

“I like the freedom to choose what you want to complete based on what you are comfortable speaking about,” said junior Grace Castellese, a member of Speech Club.

Those who join Speech Club are given many different opportunities to practice public speaking, which is considered by many to be a valuable skill. The club helps develop acting and personal presence in front of an audience.

“I like that [Speech Club] pushes me to become more comfortable with public speaking, which is something I do not really like,” stated junior Amalia Sordo-Palacios, who is also a part of Speech Club.

Speech Club acts as a great opportunity for students to develop speaking skills, writing skills, and friendships with other members of the club.