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Why Extemp?
- sjearnest01
- Dec 1, 2020
- 2 min read
Stoa has a powerful motto: “Speaking Boldly. Changing the World for Christ.” To change the world for Christ through bold speech, Christians need to understand the world in which they live and be prepared to articulately address current issues in light of a biblical worldview. Extemporaneous Speaking (Extemp) engages competitors directly with current events in our nation and around the world.
Eleanor Roosevelt famously said, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” Extemp competitors learn to discuss the principles and ideas behind events and not just the events themselves or the people involved. Competitors demonstrate critical thinking, analysis, and application of principles during their Extemp speeches. This brings great hope for the future of our society and the kingdom of God. Extemp competition is also excellent for debaters—broadening their knowledge base while strengthening their analytical and argumentation skills. We encourage Stoa competitors to participate in Extemp to help prepare them to change the world for Christ!
Extemp Resources for Tournament Staff
Extemp poses unique challenges for tournament staff. Writing effective questions is challenging, and running an efficient prep room requires knowledge and attention to detail. The Speech Committee has produced documents to help tournament staff fulfill these responsibilities with excellence. Extemp Resources can be found under Tournament Documents on the Stoa website and include:
Extemp Prep Room Timesheet Instructions (spreadsheets explained and postings tips)
Extemp Draw Time & Speak Timesheet (autofill spreadsheet for posting)
Extemp Prep Room Timesheet (autofill spreadsheet for proctors)
Extemp Speak Timesheet (autofill spreadsheet for judges)
All Extemp room staff should be familiar with the event rules and carefully review all Speech Documents related to Extemp:
Extemporaneous Rules (found under Rules)
Extemporaneous Prep Room Protocol (found under Rules)
Extemporaneous Room Administration (found under Room Administration)
A set of well-crafted questions and a well-organized prep room will give Extemp competitors a valuable experience.
I really appreciate how this piece connects extemporaneous speaking with Stoa’s mission of engaging the world thoughtfully and courageously for Christ. Learning to respond clearly to real, messy issues—from cultural debates to everyday realities like rats in toilets—builds the kind of calm confidence Christians need to speak with both conviction and grace. This was a helpful reminder that extemp isn’t just a speech event; it’s training for faithful, informed public witness.
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The page didn’t load for me, but based on the title I imagine your post on the value of extemp (or extemporaneous speaking) would be really insightful! If you’re discussing tips or the benefits of thinking on your feet, that’s such a valuable skill across many areas of life. I’ve also seen discussions on https://grandoaksorthodontics.com/ about how preparation and adaptability matter in unexpected ways, and that connection really resonates with topics like extemp. Would love to read more once it’s available!