Trinity College School’s Grade 10 Public Speaking Contest was held online on Thursday, May 13th. Speeches focused on Canadians who have made a significant contribution to their field and/or the world around them. Every Grade 10 student researched, prepared and delivered a speech for their English class. The top student from each class then participated in the finals, which were broadcast through a webinar.
The competition was generously sponsored by former faculty member, Mr. Peter Kedwell. The event was hosted by the Head Prefects, Graham Hall and Addy Malpas. They entertained the viewers by providing interesting facts about each speaker as they were introduced as well as answering questions posed by the audience between speakers.
Each year, the judges, teachers and students are impressed by how the speakers deliver their speeches with confidence and poise. In particular, the unique format of presenting online to a camera rather than a live audience made the speakers’ delivery even more impressive this year. Thus, the task of judging the contest was both challenging and enjoyable.
After much deliberation, the judges decided to share first place between Emily Brown, for her speech on Romeo Dallaire, and Grace Johnson, for her speech on Lincoln Alexander. Emily impressed all with her poise and eloquent delivery. Meanwhile, Grace’s passionate and engaging delivery was exemplary. Both speeches balanced interesting, little-known facts with anecdotes, highlighting why Dallaire and Alexander are significant figures.
The other finalists, in alphabetical order, were: Alexa Braganza, Karen Kain; Merryn Hamilton, Irene Uchida; Michael Moreau, Jacques Plante; Izzy Torzsas, Roberta Bondar; and Carmella Ylagan, Dionne Brand.
Thank you to the judges, Mr. Peter Kedwell, Ms. Viola Lyons and Mrs. Barbara Piccini, for their time and careful deliberations. As well, thank you to Mr. Myke Healy for hosting the webinar and helping make the online finals possible.
- By Ms. Barb Brough, head of English
