The Tall Tales Contest contest is 3 to 5 minutes in length.  In addition to the general contest rules, the following additions and exceptions apply: 1.) The subject for the Tall Tales speech must be of a highly exaggerated, improbable nature and have a theme or plot. 2.) Humor and props may be used to support or illustrate the speech.

Content (30%)
Speech Development is the way the speaker puts ideas together so the audience can understand them. A good tall tales speech immediately engages the audience’s attention, then smoothly builds up to a climax and conclusion.

Delivery (55%)
Speech Techniques refers to the use of various tall tales skills, such as exaggeration, irony, pun, humor and surprise twist. These techniques are the essence of the tall tale, and they must be skillfully incorporated into the tale.
Physical presentation of the speech carries part of the responsibility for effective communication. The speaker’s appearance should reinforce the story. Body language should support the story through gestures, expressions and body positions.
Voice is the sound that carries the message. It should be flexible, moving from one pitch level to another for emphasis, and should have a variety of rate and volume. A good voice can be clearly heard and the words be easily understood.

Language (15%)
Appropriateness of language refers to the choice of words that relate to the speech purpose and to the particular audience hearing the speech. Language should promote clear understanding of thoughts and should fit the occasion precisely. Proper use of grammar and correct pronunciation will show that the speaker is the master of the words being used.