Cody Herche

Debate (both TP and LD), Extemp, Cross-examination

Published Works

• Keys to Extemp (2008)
• Keys to Cross-Examination (2011)

Session Titles

1. Current events overviewRoundtable discussion of current events issues. Experienced students will engage in moderated debate about current social and economic issues. Newcomers to extemp are provided with an understanding of what topic areas are included in extemp questions.
2. Building a successful boxTips on how to create a successful extemp box. Strategies on locating, printing and organizing relevant articles.
3. Bias in the news Understanding and combating bias in the news media. Discussion of what creates bias and exercises to identify our own bias as commentators. How to incorporate discussion of bias into extemp speeches.
4. Writing an extemp speechHow to prepare a cogent extemp speech within the given time limits. Introduction to the 3-3 format. How to cite article and introduce and conclude the topic.
5. Mastering unique analysis and genericsHow to develop and articulate unique perspectives on current events issues. Discussion of the role of generics in extemp.
6. Speaking drillsSpeaking drills for verbal pauses, vocal variance, improving delivery and other key areas of speech communication.
7. Speaking for impactHow to differentiate yourself from other speakers. Discussion of what makes a dynamic presenter. How to hone the skills that distinguish polished delivery.
8. General keys to cross examination successHow to appear confident and earn credibility when asking or answering questions in cross examination.
9. Triage, trees and syllogismsHow to identify weaknesses in your opponents case, design cross examination questions that expose those weaknesses and deliver them effectively.
10. Defending the oracleKeys for the examinee, the unlucky guy or gal that answers the questions in cross examination.
11. Poker and cross examinationApplying the lessons from a popular card game to cross examination.
12. Cross examination drillsDrills to improve your cross examination ability.
13. Turning pointHow to deliver the 1AR, the hardest speech in modern forensics.
14. From Topic to Thesis to Examples How to develop a coherent, topical thesis statement and incorporate creative examples. Introduction into the use of topic grids and impromptu journals.
15. How to Find a Topic Pushing ourselves to come up with a great topic to speak on is sometimes tricky. The greats have some pretty simple formulas.
16. Introductions and conclusionsLearn the best ways to open and close your impromptus and platform speeches. How to impress the judges with your precise conclusions and sharp introductions.