PURPOSE

The Speech and Essay Contest reinforces essential Cadet Program communication skills, rewards cadet proficiency in written and spoken communication and reinforces Civil Air Patrol's drug free message.

COMPETITION

Events: The Competition will consist of two events: 1) a 5-7 minute prepared speech and 2) a 300-500 word typed essay. Both have a theme of "Drug Free and Proud – The Cadet Program Makes a Difference." Cadets may compete in either or both events, but must be present to participate.

Participation: The competition is open to cadets assigned to an IN WG chartered unit.

Awards: Awards will be granted for each event by division as follows:

·         Speech Contest Champion (highest speech total score):  $175 Scholarship to NESA, Encampment or another Civil Air Patrol activity.

·         Speech Contest Honorable Mention (second highest speech total score). $75 scholarship to NESA, Encampment or another Civil Air Patrol activity.

·         Essay Contest Champions (highest essay total score): $75 Scholarship to NESA, Encampment or another Civil Air Patrol activity.

·         Essay Contest Honorable Mention (second highest essay total score): $50 Scholarship to NESA, Encampment or another Civil Air Patrol activity.

Evaluation: A panel of three judges will grade the cadets in accordance with the speaking and writing critiques found in CAPR 52-16.  The sum total of each grading sheet will be used to determine ranking of contestants. In case of a tie in the speech category, the tied cadets will be reevaluated with an impromptu speech of 3-5 minutes based one of these topics as selected by the panel chair:

1) Explain why America’s aerospace power is vital to commerce, science, or national security.

2) Describe leadership mistakes you have made or witnessed and explain what you have learned from them.

3) Explain the difference between followership and leadership.

4) Describe how, if at all, the Core Values have influenced your life.

If a tie-breaking event needs to be held, it will be scheduled during the group commanders’ calls during the Conference. The cadets will receive 15 minutes to prepare and the judges will evaluate them using the same CAPR 52-16 score sheet. Similarly, ties in the essay contest will be evaluated by giving the cadets 30 minutes to develop a 300 word or less response to the topics found above; again, this will occur later in the competition day and judges will evaluate them using the CAPR 52-16 score sheet.

REGISTRATION

Cadets must be present to participate in the competition. Cadets will sign in at the Conference Registration table to indicate if they intend to compete in the contest. Final speech registration and order of presentation will be determined as the cadets enter to compete. Registration for essay contestants will be validated when the essay is turned into the Conference registration table the day of the competition.