The student will be able to:

1. Create and perform independent oral interpretations of poetry, prose, and drama.
2. Gain understanding of interpretative speech performance history.
3. Learn to properly critique an oral interpretation, both orally and in writing.
4. Gain understanding and appreciation of people of diverse cultural backgrounds through intercultural research and presentations.
5. Apply principles of literary analysis, rhetorical strategy, and communication theory to interpretive performance.
6. Incorporate critique from instructors, peers, and adjudicators to improve interpretative skill.
7. Gain understanding of effective vocal control, physical presence, emotional connection, and character development in performance.

1. Overview of forensics interpretation and related formats
   1. Definition and goals of interpretation in forensics
   2. Types of literature: poetry, prose, drama
   3. Introduction to Readers' Theater and/or community-based oral performance events
2. Overview of interpretation events, including:
   1. Dramatic interpretation: selections drawn from plays, emphasizing realism and character depth
   2. Prose interpretation: narrative-focused literature such as short stories or novels with attention to storytelling elements
   3. Poetry interpretation: interpretation of one or more poems highlighting sound, image, and poetic devices
   4. Programmed oral interpretation: a unified performance combining at least two literary genres centered on a theme
   5. Duo interpretation: two performers interpreting a single or programmed script with coordinated delivery
   6. Interpreters' Theater (Readers' Theater): group oral reading emphasizing ensemble expression, unity, and interpretation from manuscript
3. Oral interpretation techniques
   1. Instruction in various oral interpretation speech formats
      1. Technique and delivery of interpretation of prose
      2. Technique and delivery of dramatic interpretation
      3. Technique and delivery of interpretation of poetry
   2. Instruction in creation of original introductory material
4. Performance technique
   1. Vocal delivery: volume, pace, inflection, tone, articulation
   2. Physical delivery: facial expression, gestures, posture, and movement
   3. Emotional connection and audience adaptation
5. Literary analysis and script preparation
   1. Selecting appropriate literature for interpretation
   2. Analyzing structure, theme, tone, and character
   3. Preparing a manuscript for performance
6. History of interpretive speech
   1. Examination of modern and historical oral interpretation
   2. Review of oral interpretation performance videos
7. Critique and evaluation
   1. Oral and written critique practices
   2. Using rubrics and ballots for structured feedback
   3. Instruction in and submission of properly structured written critique
   4. Demonstration and practice of oral critique techniques
   5. Integrating feedback for performance improvement
8. Intercultural understanding and representation
   1. Exploring and selecting literature from diverse cultural traditions
   2. Sensitivity to voice, identity, and representation in performance
   3. Cross-cultural research
   4. International intercollegiate competition video review
   5. Intercultural research and reflection
9. Professionalism and ethics
   1. Tournament conduct and etiquette
   2. Collaboration and support in team settings
   3. Self-discipline and time management for preparation

Not applicable.

Written introductions for presentations
Evaluation of oral interpretation based on selection of material, quality of content, and delivery style
Written self-evaluation
Preparation and performance of oral interpretations in multiple genres
Written literary and character analyses
Peer and instructor critiques (oral and written)
Self-reflection journals and digital performance portfolio
Participation in rehearsals, discussions, and one or more formal performances
Completion of intercultural research related to selected performance literature

Instructor-led lectures on theory and technique
Demonstrations of oral interpretation performances
Collaborative group rehearsals
Individualized coaching
Structured peer critique
Students will engage in electronic discussions and perform in competitive or public speaking settings

Martinez, Anna. Oral Interpretation of Literature. 2023.

Young, Richard T.. Oral Interpretation: A Creative Performance Approach. 2024.

Gura, Timothy. Oral Interpretation, 12th ed.. 2009.

Lewis, Todd V.. Communicating Literature: An Introduction to Oral Interpretation. 2008.

Winebrennan, T.C.. Intercollegiate Forensics, 2nd ed.. 1997.

Although some of these texts are older than the suggested "5 years or newer" standard, they remain seminal texts in this area of study.

1. Writing assignments
   1. Write literary analysis essays on performance selections
   2. Compose character development outlines
   3. Draft self-reflection journals after performances
   4. Write and revise original introductions for performance pieces that clearly identify sources and authors and explain the piece's relevance, especially as it connects to a contemporary social issue
2. Reading and research assignments
   1. Read and annotate literary texts (poetry, prose, drama) for interpretation
   2. Conduct intercultural research on selected authors or texts
   3. Study historical materials on interpretation and competitive performance
3. Performance and demonstration assignments
   1. Perform rehearsed selections in class and/or at competition
   2. Deliver peer critiques using performance rubrics
   3. Participate in interpretive rounds in the classroom or at tournaments or community events