Sarah Seeley is a junior at Jackson High School and a 3-year member of the speech and debate team in Program Oral Interpretation
Program Oral Interpretation (POI) is a speech event in which competitors perform a program of literature centered around a single theme or message. Unlike events that rely on one continuous piece, POI allows performers to compile and interweave multiple published sources (ex: prose, poetry, drama) into a cohesive and intentional program.
POI is typically performed using a binder, which contains the selected literature. The binder is not just a requirement, but an important performance tool. It helps structure the program, signals transitions between pieces, and supports clarity as performers shift between sources, perspectives, or tones. How a competitor handles and uses the binder can contribute to the overall professionalism of the performance.
The focus of POI is synthesis. Performers are expected to choose texts that clearly connect to a central idea and arrange them in a way that builds meaning. Strong POI programs create a clear progression of thought, often showing contrast, development, or a shift in perspective over the course of the performance.
Because POI draws from multiple sources, organization and transitions are essential. Performers must guide the audience through changes in genre, speaker, and mood while maintaining a unified message. Transitions, whether spoken or implied through binder use, focus, or pacing, should clearly explain how each piece contributes to the program’s theme.
Delivery in POI emphasizes control and intention. Movement is usually limited, with performers relying on vocal variety, pacing, focus, and deliberate binder use to differentiate pieces and characters. Judges look for clarity, cohesion, and thoughtful integration of literature.
Program Oral Interpretation rewards performers who can thoughtfully select, organize, and interpret multiple texts. When done well, POI uses the binder and the literature together to present a unified, purposeful message with depth and precision.
Here is the winning POI piece from the 2023 National Speech and Debate Tournament: