In Mr. Ward Abel’s debate class, students took a short break from public forum debates to give personal speeches on Wednesday, March 29. The topic that students were supposed to speak about was “What is important to me right now?” With little preparation and time to speak, student responses ranged from humorous interpretations of the political world to serious discussions on their family and life.

Junior Max Ogg said, “Debate speeches are a lot more casual than formal debates. I can talk about world events or politics like in the formal debates, or I could talk about how much I hate Hawaiian pizzas.”

Mr. Abel said, “Impromptu speeches are a good way to make sure debate students are maintaining a comfort level in front of spectators that is basic when taking the course.”