Instructions for participants

The 2010 topic is:  If I were President

The job of president of the United States of America comes with big opportunities and big challenges.

In this year's Modern Woodmen School Speech Contest, each participating student should share how he or she envisions these opportunities and challenges. Each student may want to consider writing the speech in a way that helps the audience and judges learn the student's:

• Feelings regarding the presidential experience. What would it be like to live in the White House or travel on Air Force One? Students may want to explore the many exciting, positive aspects of presidential power.
• Decisions to be made in this powerful position. The president has power to make laws, act as the leader for many government employees, serve as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces and much more. What important decisions would the student make, and how would those decisions help others?
• Traits and abilities. What characteristics would the student hope to possess as president?

Speeches must be at least three minutes and no longer than five minutes long.  Speeches must be in the students' own words. Complete rules are outlined in the contest organizer's booklet.

Judging criteria
Contestants will be judged using the following 100-point system

40 points for material organization
This accounts for theme and subject adherence, structure, content, logic and color.

40 points for delivery and presentation
This includes voice, pronunciation, enunciation, gestures and poise.

20 points for overall effectiveness
This scores impression and effect.

Contest dates
This contest can be held anytime from January through May, on a date chosen by the principal or teachers of the participating school.

Materials provided 

• Informational brochure for students
• Certificates for all participants
• Gold-plated pins and trophies for top contestants
• Plaque for schools and winners at each school
• Appreciation gifts for judges, timer and contact person
• Packet of information for contact person

Rules summary

1. A minimum of 12 students must participate.
2. The contest must be held between Jan. 1 and May 31.
3. A request form for supplies must be completed and returned to Modern Woodmen each year.
4. Speech content must be each student’s own thoughts and words on the topic, “If I were President.”
5. No costumes, visuals or props may be used at the contest. If used, 50 points will be deducted.
6. At the school’s discretion, speeches may be memorized or notes may be used, but students must be notified of the decision two weeks before the contest.
7. Each speech must be three to five minutes long. Penalty points will be assessed for speeches over or under the time limit.

Complete rules are sent with the contact person’s packet.

How to request
Use our Find a Representative feature or call our Service Center at (800) 447-9811. If you have used the School Speech Contest before, you can request it online.