Why Join Public Speaking
Competing in FFA Public Speaking is a powerful way to turn your ideas into impact—while building skills and memories that last long after high school. Here’s what you gain:
- Communication Mastery: Learn to craft a clear, compelling message and deliver it with confidence in any setting.
- Critical Thinking & Research: Dive deep into agricultural topics, organizing information and arguments that inform and persuade.
- Quick-Thinking Skills: In extemporaneous contests, you’ll sharpen your ability to think on your feet and speak eloquently under pressure.
- Confidence & Poise: Hone your stage presence, body language, and vocal delivery—abilities that translate to classrooms, interviews, and leadership roles.
- Networking & Mentorship: Connect with judges, industry experts, and fellow speakers, opening doors to internships, scholarships, and career advice.
- Recognition & Scholarships: Top presenters earn awards, medals, and scholarship opportunities that bolster your resume and college applications.
- Lifelong Memories: From preparation study sessions to the thrill of competition day, public speaking creates camaraderie and experiences you’ll never forget.
Public Speaking At a Glance
Our Public Speaking contests give FFA members the chance to sharpen their research, writing, and presentation skills—skills that last a lifetime. We compete in three main categories, each designed to challenge and inspire:
Ready to speak up? Sign up for tryouts with your Ag instructor and start crafting your winning speech today!
- Prepared Public Speaking
Write and deliver a 6–8 minute speech on a current agricultural issue or topic of your choice. Emphasis is placed on organization, content accuracy, delivery style, and audience engagement.
- Impromptu Public Speaking
Draw an ag-related topic, get just minutes to prepare, then present a clear, concise 2–4 minute speech—perfect for sharpening quick-thinking skills.
- Extemporaneous Public Speaking
Show your quick-thinking skills! You’ll draw an agriculture-related topic, have 30 minutes to prepare, and then present a 5–7 minute speech. This event tests your ability to organize ideas rapidly and speak confidently under time pressure.
- FFA Creed Speaking
Memorize and recite the official FFA Creed in a 6–8 minute presentation, followed by an eight-question oral quiz from the judge. This contest builds mastery of FFA’s core values and traditions.
- Job Interview Contest
Prepare a professional resume, cover letter, and portfolio, then participate in a 5-minute simulated job interview—build your confidence and polish your interview skills.
Ready to speak up? Sign up for tryouts with your Ag instructor and start crafting your winning speech today!
