WHAT IS Forensics?

“Forensics “ is a collection of 20 competitive public speaking events covering a wide range of styles. The categories students can choose from may be humorous and serious, original and interpretive. Some are spontaneous in delivery, while others require reading or memorization. They range in length from four minutes to twelve minutes, including individual and group categories. Each student can choose the category she or he will find to be the most fun! The name "forensics" comes from the concept of putting pieces of evidence together to reach a conclusion. In the early days of Wisconsin forensics competition, most categories required that kind of logical, persuasive accumulation of evidence. Now only a few categories are like that.

Why should I consider joining the Oriole Forensics team?

It’s fun!  It’s different kinds of fun for different people. Some enjoy the competition.  Some just love the opportunity to communicate their ideas to others. Some enjoy meeting people from other schools, often making lasting friendships. Some love to make people laugh, others to make people cry or frighten them.  (These folks usually end up in the acting categories.)  It will help you develop one of your most important skills: communication.  Many former forensics team members come back and tell us that their forensics experience has been hugely helpful in their careers and in college.  Participating in forensics is an investment in your future. You can be on the forensics team at the same time you participate in other activities. You only need to work with your individual forensics coach once a week during the season and attend at least four of the tournaments.  You get to schedule your own tournament dates.  HUHS has one of the top teams in the state, finishing in the top five at the state tournament almost every year (fourth in 2000).   We also host a great tournament right here at our own school. You get to hang around with interesting people!

Who joins the Oriole Forensics team?

The forensics team is one of the most diverse co-curricular groups at HUHS.  We have athletes, musicians, actors, future lawyers, FBLA members, FFA members, writers, scientists and many others.  Some have previous forensics experience, but many do not.  Not only do you belong to a big team, but you also find groups of people on the team who share your particular interests.  Our team usually consists of 65-85 students.  

How do I get started or find out more about Oriole Forensics?

Ask your English teacher. 

Come to one of the informational meetings scheduled for November (sometimes October.)  Competition begins in late January, but team members need to be practicing regularly by early December after attending some preparation activities in November.