How to *uhm* Improvise

Impromptu Weather Forecasting is a relatively new event, one that was developed and implemented into our competitions in the last two years. Basically, this event gives competitors the chance to try their hand at predicting the weather. The idea was hey, if professionals can incorrectly predict the weather, why not give these college kids a shot?  According to komonews.com, the best way to become a meteorologist is to take as many science and math-type related classes as you can such as Physics, Chemistry, and Trigonometry while in high school. Now since we're not in high school, and we only have three minutes to prep our speech, we're going to have to improvise.  Now I know what you're thinking, "How am I supposed to know what the weather's gonna be?" I'm so glad you asked! And isn't it crazy that I can predict your thoughts? I'm pretty good at forecasts. Anyway, when you walk into the room, you will be given a prompt that tells you the weather...

The most basic improvised event that we see at every single tournament is Impromptu Speaking. All of the other events that I will cover share the basic concept and structure with this event, so it will be easier on all of us if I start here. Any novice speaker that I work with will get their feet wet with Impromptu. Once they are comfortable here they typically branch out and try the more unique events. The concept behind Impromptu is simple.  You are given a prompt, typically a quotation, which you must analyze and then persuade the judge as to why your interpretation is correct.  Rules:  Competitors have seven minutes total for this event. That time may be split between time used to prepare their speech and to deliver it. The judge will give 30 second verbal cues while you prep and hand signals counting down your time while you are speaking. You must speak for at least 4  minutes.  A note card is permitted, but remember that you should only use...

Hello there! Welcome to the wonderful world of improvisation. Through the next seven blog posts I will strive to give you a basic working knowledge of, and a glimpse into, the world of quick thinking, extemporaneous speaking, confidence, and utter BS-ing. It's a wild ride, so fasten your seat belts ladies and gentlemen. Impromptu speaking of any kind is difficult, frustrating, nerve-wracking, and oh so rewarding. There's just nothing like the tension before you get your prompt, the low-key panic as thoughts go in a million different directions, and strutting out of that room when you're done knowing that you absolutely crushed it. *Cue background explosions and theme music as you walk away and don't look back* According to a fellow teammate, Marcelo Gonzales, "They [these events] are opportunities to be creative, perform, and get better at showcasing your art in front of an audience. I like the creative freedom, but it requires a lot of practice. But sometimes ...