Rotary's 4-Way Test
Speech Contest
From the earliest days, Rotary has been concerned with promoting high ethical standards. One of the world’s most widely quoted statements is Rotary’s 4-Way Test, which was created in 1932 by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor.
Every year Rotary districts around the world sponsor high school 4-Way Test contests. Though COVID precautions have eliminated our in-person 4-Way Test competition, this year’s competition will be held during our Virtual District Conference.
High school students, grades 9 through 12, are eligible to participate. Each contestant chooses the topic of his/her speech. The purpose of the speech is to persuade others while applying the principles of the Rotary
4-Way Test. The goal is for students to make the world a better place, to practice the virtues of critical thinking and ethical decision making, to develop public speaking and leadership skills to positively influence and inspire others regarding an issue that they find passionate.
THE ROTARY 4-WAY TEST
Of the things we think, say, or do:
Is it the TRUTH?
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
Interested Students
Timeline:
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May 30: Application Due
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June 6: Opening Round (To be judged by Rotaractors with Rotarian support; Students will present via a pre-taped speech. 10 contestants will be chosen to move to the Semi-final round).
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June 13: Semi-final Round (To be judged by Rotarians. 4 contestants will be chosen to move to the final round).
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June 26: Final Contest (To be judged by conference attendees). 1st place will be awarded $400. 2nd place will be awarded $300, 3rd place will be awarded $200. 4th place will be awarded $100.
View a sample scoring sheet.
Helpful Videos
How to Prepare for a 4-Way Test: Student Tips
4-Way Test Speech Contest Segments
4-Way Test 1st Place Winner Example 1
Interested Mentors
Rotarians and Rotaractors are needed to support the students during this online contest.
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Mentor a high school student through the process of preparing for the 4-Way Speech Test Contest (present though June 26).
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Judge pre-taped speeches on June 6 morning.
What to expect:
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Mentor support related to preparing a student.
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“Dive into Judging” on-line tutorial. (More details coming soon).
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Guidance from Matt May, 4-Way Test Speech Program Chair, pre June 6 judging.
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On-line judging technology in place.
Helpful Resources