Distance Declamation

Spring Term 2020

The declamation is a tradition at Rumsey and has been for as long as anyone can remember.
We are not exactly sure when it began, but we are resolute when we say that it will not end this
year. If there was ever a year to embrace traditions, this is it. We will have the entire school
partake in the declamation process albeit slightly different than in the past. This year you will
have a choice not only for your piece, but also how you deliver it. You can choose to memorize
or you may choose to recite.

1. If you choose to memorize your piece, you can select whatever you like with a few
exceptions that are outlined below.

2. If you choose to recite (meaning you are not memorizing) you MUST choose a poem.

I am hoping most of you go down the memorization route for the challenge as well as the fact
that this is what you would have been doing. However, if you choose to recite a poem without
memorizing, your work and focus will be on the delivery of the piece and imbuing it with
meaning.

If you are choosing to take the extra challenge of memorizing your piece you are able to choose
outside of poetry. So what does this mean? Well, you can still choose poetry, of course, but you
can choose an excerpt from a novel, essay, article, opinion or any kind of prose. You can
choose a dramatic monologue from either film or play. You can do a political speech, or
graduation speech. There are many different roads you can go down. There are certain things
you can’t choose, however.

Song Lyrics, Children’s books, Shel Sylverstein/Ogden Nash type poets, anything
inappropriate (think about where this would be delivered under normal circumstances).
Everything is subject to your teacher’s approval.

Line Requirements for Poetry

IV Form- 20 line minimum
V Form- 22 line minimum
VI Form- 24 line minimum
VII Form- 25 line minimum

If you are doing a prose selection, you will work out with your teacher the best length. Prose
pieces can drag on, and you want to be sure that you maintain your audience.
If you choose to just recite a piece without memorizing, you will need to choose a poem. You
will be given exercises to help you learn how to really recite a poem as opposed to merely
reading it. There is a distinct difference. Your teacher can help direct your search for poems that
would be good for you.

Line Requirements for Poetry

IV Form- 20 line minimum
V Form- 22 line minimum
VI Form- 24 line minimum
VII Form- 25 line minimum

It is important for you to choose something that you 1) Enjoy and 2) Understand.

Approval of your piece is due by May 4th.