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| name = Stoa USA
| name = Stoa USA
| logo = [[Image:Stoa2012.png|180px]]
| logo = [[Image:Stoa2012.png|180px]]
| type = [[Non Profit Organization]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
| type = [[Non Profit Organization]]<ref name="Bylaws of Stoa">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
| foundation = 2009<ref>{{cite web|url=http://stoaca.org/main/node/4|title=Letter to California Affiliates.|publisher=Stoa California|date=2009-08-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
| foundation = 2009<ref name="Letter to California Affiliates">{{cite web|url=http://stoaca.org/main/node/4|title=Letter to California Affiliates.|publisher=Stoa California|date=2009-08-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
| location =
| location =
| key_people = Scott York, Founding President<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/serving-stoa-bios|title=Meet Those Serving Stoa|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2014|accessdate=2014-04-18}}</ref><br>Mark Russell, Current President<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/serving-stoa-bios|title=Meet Those Serving Stoa|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2014|accessdate=2014-04-18}}</ref><br>Lars Jorgensen, Founding Member
| key_people = Scott York, Founding President<ref name="Meet Those Serving Stoa">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/serving-stoa-bios|title=Meet Those Serving Stoa|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2014|accessdate=2014-04-18}}</ref><br>Mark Russell, Current President<ref name="Meet Those Serving Stoa">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/serving-stoa-bios|title=Meet Those Serving Stoa|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2014|accessdate=2014-04-18}}</ref><br>Lars Jorgensen, Founding Member
| homepage = http://www.stoausa.org
| homepage = http://www.stoausa.org
}}
}}
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'''Stoa USA''', also referred to as '''Stoa''', is a [[Christianity|Christian]] homeschool [[Public Speaking|forensics]] organization in the [[United States]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/home|title=Home |publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> It is one of the four major national high school forensics organizations (the others are the [[National Forensic League]] (NFL), [[National Catholic Forensic League]] (NCFL), and the [[National Christian Forensics and Communications Association]] (NCFCA)).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/membership/note-to-parents-and-coaches|title=Note to Parents and Coaches|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-22}}</ref>
'''Stoa USA''', also referred to as '''Stoa''', is a [[Christianity|Christian]] homeschool [[Public Speaking|forensics]] organization in the [[United States]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/home|title=Home |publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> It is one of the four major national high school forensics organizations (the others are the [[National Forensic League]] (NFL), [[National Catholic Forensic League]] (NCFL), and the [[National Christian Forensics and Communications Association]] (NCFCA)).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/membership/note-to-parents-and-coaches|title=Note to Parents and Coaches|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-22}}</ref>


[[Stoa]] is defined by the [[Merriam-Webster Dictionary]] as “an ancient Greek portico usually walled at the back with a front colonnade designed to afford a sheltered promenade.”<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stoa|title=Stoa |publisher=Merriam-Webster Dictionary|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> The Stoa was a common fixture of many towns in [[Ancient Greece]] and was used as a place where people could debate and discuss their ideas.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/stoa-name|title="Stoa"--What does that mean?|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
[[Stoa]] is defined by the [[Merriam-Webster Dictionary]] as “an ancient Greek portico usually walled at the back with a front colonnade designed to afford a sheltered promenade.”<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stoa|title=Stoa |publisher=Merriam-Webster Dictionary|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> The Stoa was a common fixture of many towns in [[Ancient Greece]] and was used as a place where people could debate and discuss their ideas.<ref name="Stoa--What does that mean">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/stoa-name|title="Stoa"--What does that mean?|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>


==Overview==
==Overview==
[[Image:Stoa in Athens.jpg|right|250px|thumb|A [[stoa]] in [[Athens]]. Stoa USA derives its name from this common feature of Ancient Greek architecture.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/stoa-name|title="Stoa"--What does that mean?|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
[[Image:Stoa in Athens.jpg|right|250px|thumb|A [[stoa]] in [[Athens]]. Stoa USA derives its name from this common feature of Ancient Greek architecture.<ref name="Stoa--What does that mean"/>
]]
]]
Stoa was created in 2009 to better serve the needs of the growing homeschool speech and debate community.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://stoaca.org/main/node/4|title=Letter to California Affiliates.|publisher=Stoa California|date=2009-08-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Its website explains that its objective is “to train Christian home schooled youth in speech and debate in order to better communicate a [[Bible|Biblical]] worldview.”<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
Stoa was created in 2009 to better serve the needs of the growing homeschool speech and debate community.<ref name="Letter to California Affiliates">{{cite web|url=http://stoaca.org/main/node/4|title=Letter to California Affiliates.|publisher=Stoa California|date=2009-08-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Its website explains that its objective is “to train Christian home schooled youth in speech and debate in order to better communicate a [[Bible|Biblical]] worldview.”<ref name="Bylaws of Stoa">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>


Stoa USA is a [[non-profit organization]] run entirely by volunteers. It is governed by a Board of Directors who oversee its day to day operations and propose rule amendments which affect competitors nationwide.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Members vote on important issues, such as debate [[Resolution (debate)|resolutions]] and significant rule changes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Judges are usually parents, coaches, alumni, or members of the community.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=c3RvYXVzYS5vcmd8c3RvYXVzYXxneDpjOWFlZDllYmU0ZTgxNjc|title=Debate Judges Orientation|publisher=Google Docs|year=2011|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
Stoa USA is a [[non-profit organization]] run entirely by volunteers. It is governed by a Board of Directors who oversee its day to day operations and propose rule amendments which affect competitors nationwide.<ref name="Bylaws of Stoa">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Members vote on important issues, such as debate [[Resolution (debate)|resolutions]] and significant rule changes.<ref name="Bylaws of Stoa">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Judges are usually parents, coaches, alumni, or members of the community.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=sites&srcid=c3RvYXVzYS5vcmd8c3RvYXVzYXxneDpjOWFlZDllYmU0ZTgxNjc|title=Debate Judges Orientation|publisher=Google Docs|year=2011|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>


Stoa sanctions only one tournament each year, the National Invitational Tournament of Champions (NITOC) (referenced below).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/nitoc-2013|title=NITOC 2013 |publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-06-02}}</ref>
Stoa sanctions only one tournament each year, the National Invitational Tournament of Champions (NITOC) (referenced below).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/nitoc-2013|title=NITOC 2013 |publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-06-02}}</ref>
Stoa exists to support state and local organizations in running tournaments, but recognizes the autonomy of those at the state and local level to operate in a manner that best serves their particular needs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/tournaments/tournament-tabulation|title=Tournament Tabulation|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-22}}</ref>
Stoa exists to support state and local organizations in running tournaments, but recognizes the autonomy of those at the state and local level to operate in a manner that best serves their particular needs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/tournaments/tournament-tabulation|title=Tournament Tabulation|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-22}}</ref>


Because homeschooled students are not typically associated with [[schools]], most affiliates belong to member “Clubs.” Most club members live in the local area around where their club is based.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/stoa-state-links|title=State Organizations|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-22}}</ref>
Because homeschooled students are not typically associated with [[schools]], most affiliates belong to member “Clubs.” Most club members live in the local area around where their club is based.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/stoa-state-links|title=State Organizations|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-22}}</ref>


==''Speechranks'' and the Point Recognition System==
==''Speechranks'' and the Point Recognition System==
The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings, also known as [http://www.speechranks.com ''Speechranks''], is a comprehensive [[website]] that ranks Christian homeschooled speakers and debaters around the country who are in high school or middle school.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about|title=About This Site|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ''Speechranks'' was created in 2010 for promoting transparency and fairness in the Christian homeschool forensics community.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about|title=About This Site|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings, also known as [http://www.speechranks.com ''Speechranks''], is a comprehensive [[website]] that ranks Christian homeschooled speakers and debaters around the country who are in high school or middle school.<ref name="About This Site">{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about|title=About This Site|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ''Speechranks'' was created in 2010 for promoting transparency and fairness in the Christian homeschool forensics community.<ref name="About This Site"/>
Results from Stoa tournaments are uploaded onto ''Speechranks'' by tournament administrators.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/tournaments|title=Tournaments|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ''Speechranks'' also allows students to enter their own information if they compete in other Christian homeschool tournaments.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/tournaments|title=Tournaments|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> The website is monitored to ensure the integrity of the information entered. Viewers may also “Flag” results they believe to be in error.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/flagging_results|title=What if I see an Error?—Flagging Results|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
Results from Stoa tournaments are uploaded onto ''Speechranks'' by tournament administrators.<ref name="Tournaments">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/tournaments|title=Tournaments|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ''Speechranks'' also allows students to enter their own information if they compete in other Christian homeschool tournaments.<ref name="Tournaments"/> The website is monitored to ensure the integrity of the information entered. Viewers may also “Flag” results they believe to be in error.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/flagging_results|title=What if I see an Error?—Flagging Results|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
According to its website, there were 1,946 active competitors on ''Speechranks'' during the 2016-2017 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/ranking/combined|title=Combined Speech and Debate Rankings|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-06-14}}</ref>
According to its website, there were 1,946 active competitors on ''Speechranks'' during the 2016-2017 season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/ranking/combined|title=Combined Speech and Debate Rankings|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-06-14}}</ref>


There are two ways that ''Speechranks'' measures student participation: Points and Green Check Marks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/point_system|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Points are awarded to competitors based on the student’s [[percentile]] finish in each event. Students achieving the same percentile finish in any event and any tournament will be awarded the same number of Points.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0BynyblPXfCQtMWZhZDA1M2EtYzU4Zi00MWJmLTkwZjItMzM3NTAyNmRjMjI3|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=Google Docs|date=2011-12-22|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> A student’s three best finishes in a particular event are used to sum their total Points for that event.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/point_system|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Overall ranking on Speechranks is determined by the total number of Points a competitor has accumulated.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/point_system|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Green Check Marks recognize consistent excellence throughout the competitive season. There is no limit to the number of Green Check Marks a student may earn. In general, Green Check Marks are awarded to any competitor who achieves a winning record in debate or finishes in the top 40% of an [[individual events (speech)|individual event (IE)]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/point_system|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Green Check Marks are unique to each event and students may not transfer checkmarks from one event to another.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/point_system|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
There are two ways that ''Speechranks'' measures student participation: Points and Green Check Marks.<ref name="Speechranks">{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about/point_system|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Points are awarded to competitors based on the student’s [[percentile]] finish in each event. Students achieving the same percentile finish in any event and any tournament will be awarded the same number of Points.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0BynyblPXfCQtMWZhZDA1M2EtYzU4Zi00MWJmLTkwZjItMzM3NTAyNmRjMjI3|title=The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System|publisher=Google Docs|date=2011-12-22|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> A student’s three best finishes in a particular event are used to sum their total Points for that event.<ref name="Speechranks"/> Overall ranking on Speechranks is determined by the total number of Points a competitor has accumulated.<ref name="Speechranks"/> Green Check Marks recognize consistent excellence throughout the competitive season. There is no limit to the number of Green Check Marks a student may earn. In general, Green Check Marks are awarded to any competitor who achieves a winning record in debate or finishes in the top 40% of an [[individual events (speech)|individual event (IE)]].<ref name="Speechranks"/> Green Check Marks are unique to each event and students may not transfer checkmarks from one event to another.<ref name="Speechranks"/>
''Speechranks'' requirements were drafted by Isaiah McPeak, with development chaired by Dr. Van Schalin and programmed by Connor McKay.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.speechranks.com/about|title=About This Site|publisher=''Speechranks''|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> It utilizes the [[Ruby Programming Language]], the same language Stoa uses for membership and tournament registration.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.homeschooldebate.net/about|title=About the Developer|publisher=Homeschooldebate.net|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
''Speechranks'' requirements were drafted by Isaiah McPeak, with development chaired by Dr. Van Schalin and programmed by Connor McKay.<ref name="About This Site"/> It utilizes the [[Ruby Programming Language]], the same language Stoa uses for membership and tournament registration.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.homeschooldebate.net/about|title=About the Developer|publisher=Homeschooldebate.net|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>


==National Invitational Tournament of Champions==
==National Invitational Tournament of Champions==
Each year in late May or early June, the Stoa Board of Directors hosts the National Invitational Tournament of Champions, commonly referred to as NITOC.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/membership/faqs-1|title=FAQ's|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
Each year in late May or early June, the Stoa Board of Directors hosts the National Invitational Tournament of Champions, commonly referred to as NITOC.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/membership/faqs-1|title=FAQ's|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
There are two methods in which competitors may earn an invitation to NITOC. The first method, entitled the “National Invitational Model,” involves being awarded at least two Green Check Marks on ''Speechranks'' in one or more events.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nitoc2012.homeschooldebate.net/invitations|title=How to Receive a NITOC Invitation|publisher=Homeschooldebate.net|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
There are two methods in which competitors may earn an invitation to NITOC. The first method, entitled the “National Invitational Model,” involves being awarded at least two Green Check Marks on ''Speechranks'' in one or more events.<ref name="How to Receive a NITOC Invitation">{{cite web|url=https://nitoc2012.homeschooldebate.net/invitations|title=How to Receive a NITOC Invitation|publisher=Homeschooldebate.net|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
In the second method, known as the “State Invitational Model,” the top speaker of each state in each individual event qualifies for an invitation, as well as the top two teams in Lincoln Douglas Debate and Team Policy Debate.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nitoc2012.homeschooldebate.net/invitations|title=How to Receive a NITOC Invitation|publisher=Homeschooldebate.net|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>
In the second method, known as the “State Invitational Model,” the top speaker of each state in each individual event qualifies for an invitation, as well as the top two teams in Lincoln Douglas Debate and Team Policy Debate.<ref name="How to Receive a NITOC Invitation"/>
Participation at NITOC requires Stoa membership.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Students may compete in as many events at NITOC in which they are invited by either of the two invitational models.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/nitoc|title=NITOC 2012|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> The 2012 National Invitational Tournament of Champions, held in [[Colorado Springs, Colorado]], was regarded as the largest tournament in the history of homeschool speech and debate, where nearly 600 students competed across 13 different events.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nitoc2012.homeschooldebate.net/assets/189/stoa-nationals-press-release-052912.pdf|title=Focus on the Family Hosts Largest Homeschool Speech & Debate Tournament|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>
Participation at NITOC requires Stoa membership.<ref name="Bylaws of Stoa">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/about/leadership/stoa-bylaws|title=Bylaws of Stoa.|publisher=Stoa USA|date=2010-07-10|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> Students may compete in as many events at NITOC in which they are invited by either of the two invitational models.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/nitoc|title=NITOC 2012|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> The 2012 National Invitational Tournament of Champions, held in [[Colorado Springs, Colorado]], was regarded as the largest tournament in the history of homeschool speech and debate, where nearly 600 students competed across 13 different events.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://nitoc2012.homeschooldebate.net/assets/189/stoa-nationals-press-release-052912.pdf|title=Focus on the Family Hosts Largest Homeschool Speech & Debate Tournament|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-08-07}}</ref>


===Locations===
===Locations===
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==Events==
==Events==


===Debate<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/debate-events|title=Debate Events|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>===
===Debate<ref name="Debate Events">{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/debate-events|title=Debate Events|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref>===
[[Lincoln Douglas Debate|Lincoln Douglas Value Debate]]
[[Lincoln Douglas Debate|Lincoln Douglas Value Debate]]


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===Speech<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/speech-events|title=Speech Events|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-10-24}}</ref>===
===Speech<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/speech-events|title=Speech Events|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-10-24}}</ref>===


==== '''Limited Preparation''' ====
==== Limited Preparation ====
[[Christian apologetics|Apologetics]]. "In Apologetics, the competitor is given four (4) minutes to prepare a persuasive and reasoned speech that defends a tenet of the Christian faith and explains why that principle matters."<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://stoausa.org/speech-events/|title=Speech Events – StoaUSA|website=stoausa.org|language=en-US|access-date=2017-08-16}}</ref>
[[Christian apologetics|Apologetics]]. "In Apologetics, the competitor is given four (4) minutes to prepare a persuasive and reasoned speech that defends a tenet of the Christian faith and explains why that principle matters."<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://stoausa.org/speech-events/|title=Speech Events – StoaUSA|website=stoausa.org|language=en-US|access-date=2017-08-16}}</ref>


[[Extemporaneous speaking|Extemporaneous]]. "In Extemporaneous speaking, the competitor answers a given question based on recent events in the news. The competitor researches national and international current events and may create reference files of newsworthy information. Extemporaneous speech should be regarded as a demonstration of personal knowledge on the topic, as well as an original synthesis of numerous sources."<ref name=":0" />
[[Extemporaneous speaking|Extemporaneous]]. "In Extemporaneous speaking, the competitor answers a given question based on recent events in the news. The competitor researches national and international current events and may create reference files of newsworthy information. Extemporaneous speech should be regarded as a demonstration of personal knowledge on the topic, as well as an original synthesis of numerous sources."<ref name=":0" />


[[Areopagus sermon|Mars Hill]] [[Impromptu speaking|Impromptu]]. "In Mars Hill Impromptu, the competitor uses books, movies, and other genre to discuss the appeal and impact of the theme(s) within the topic, holding them up in light of Christian truth found in the Bible. This event is intended for competitors 14 and older or with the consent of the parents due to mature themes in some topics."<ref name=":0" />
[[Areopagus sermon|Mars Hill]] [[Impromptu speaking|Impromptu]]. "In Mars Hill Impromptu, the competitor uses books, movies, and other genre to discuss the appeal and impact of the theme(s) within the topic, holding them up in light of Christian truth found in the Bible. This event is intended for competitors 14 and older or with the consent of the parents due to mature themes in some topics."<ref name=":0" />


==== '''Platform''' ====
==== Platform ====
Expository. "An Expository is a prepared speech written by the competitor which explains and illustrates a topic through both words and visuals (e.g. illustrated boards, physical props, digital and electronic presentations, or any combination)."<ref name=":0" />
Expository. "An Expository is a prepared speech written by the competitor which explains and illustrates a topic through both words and visuals (e.g. illustrated boards, physical props, digital and electronic presentations, or any combination)."<ref name=":0" />


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Persuasive. "A persuasive speech is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, which advocates a specific position or course of action."<ref name=":0" />
Persuasive. "A persuasive speech is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, which advocates a specific position or course of action."<ref name=":0" />


==== '''Interpretive''' ====
==== Interpretive ====
Open Interpretation.
Open Interpretation.


[[Duo Interpretation]]
[[Duo Interpretation]]
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[[Dramatic Interpretation]]
[[Dramatic Interpretation]]


==== '''Wildcard'''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/resolution-and-wild-card-vote|title=Resolution and Wild Card Vote|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-10-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/speech-events|title=Speech Events|last=|first=|date=|year=2017|website=|publisher=Stoa USA|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|accessdate=2017-07-16}}</ref> ====
==== Wildcard<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/resolution-and-wild-card-vote|title=Resolution and Wild Card Vote|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-10-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/speech-events|title=Speech Events|last=|first=|date=|year=2017|website=|publisher=Stoa USA|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|accessdate=2017-07-16}}</ref> ====
2017-2018: Cold Reading, Demonstration
2017-2018: Cold Reading, Demonstration


Line 124: Line 124:
'''Lincoln-Douglas:''' Resolved: When in conflict, an individual's freedom of speech should be valued above a community's moral standards. (from October 1, 2014 to January 30, 2015)
'''Lincoln-Douglas:''' Resolved: When in conflict, an individual's freedom of speech should be valued above a community's moral standards. (from October 1, 2014 to January 30, 2015)


Resolved: The United States federal jurisprudence, the letter of the law ought to have priority over the spirit of the law. (from February 1, 2015 to April 30, 2015)
Resolved: The United States federal jurisprudence, the letter of the law ought to have priority over the spirit of the law. (from February 1, 2015 to April 30, 2015)


=== 2013-2014<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/2013-vote-results|title=2013 Vote Results|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-05-03}}</ref> ===
=== 2013-2014<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/2013-vote-results|title=2013 Vote Results|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2013|accessdate=2013-05-03}}</ref> ===
Line 138: Line 138:
]]
]]


=== 2011-2012<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stoausa.org/debate-events|title=Debate Events|publisher=Stoa USA|year=2012|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ===
=== 2011-2012<ref name="Debate Events"/> ===
'''Team Policy:''' Resolved: That the United States federal government should substantially reform its revenue generation policies.
'''Team Policy:''' Resolved: That the United States federal government should substantially reform its revenue generation policies.


'''Lincoln-Douglas:''' Resolved: When in conflict, personal freedom ought to be valued above economic security.
'''Lincoln-Douglas:''' Resolved: When in conflict, personal freedom ought to be valued above economic security.


=== 2010-2011<ref>{{cite web|url=http://stoaca.org/main/faq|title=Debate Events|publisher=Stoa California|year=2011|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ncfca.org/PastResolutions|title=Past Debate Resolutions|publisher=NCFCA|year=2011|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ===
=== 2010-2011<ref>{{cite web|url=http://stoaca.org/main/faq|title=Debate Events|publisher=Stoa California|year=2011|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref><ref name="Past Debate Resolutions">{{cite web|url=http://www.ncfca.org/PastResolutions|title=Past Debate Resolutions|publisher=NCFCA|year=2011|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ===
'''Team Policy:''' Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should significantly reform its policy toward Russia.
'''Team Policy:''' Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should significantly reform its policy toward Russia.


'''Lincoln-Douglas:''' Resolved: A government's legitimacy is determined more by its respect for popular sovereignty than individual rights.
'''Lincoln-Douglas:''' Resolved: A government's legitimacy is determined more by its respect for popular sovereignty than individual rights.


=== 2009-2010<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ncfca.org/PastResolutions|title=Past Debate Resolutions|publisher=NCFCA|year=2011|accessdate=2012-02-15}}</ref> ===
=== 2009-2010<ref name="Past Debate Resolutions"/> ===
'''Team Policy:''' Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should significantly reform its environmental policy.
'''Team Policy:''' Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should significantly reform its environmental policy.


Revision as of 23:02, 28 August 2017

Stoa USA
Company typeNon Profit Organization[1]
Founded2009[2]
Key people
Scott York, Founding President[3]
Mark Russell, Current President[3]
Lars Jorgensen, Founding Member
Websitehttp://www.stoausa.org

Stoa USA, also referred to as Stoa, is a Christian homeschool forensics organization in the United States.[4] It is one of the four major national high school forensics organizations (the others are the National Forensic League (NFL), National Catholic Forensic League (NCFL), and the National Christian Forensics and Communications Association (NCFCA)).[5]

Stoa is defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary as “an ancient Greek portico usually walled at the back with a front colonnade designed to afford a sheltered promenade.”[6] The Stoa was a common fixture of many towns in Ancient Greece and was used as a place where people could debate and discuss their ideas.[7]

Overview

A stoa in Athens. Stoa USA derives its name from this common feature of Ancient Greek architecture.[7]

Stoa was created in 2009 to better serve the needs of the growing homeschool speech and debate community.[2] Its website explains that its objective is “to train Christian home schooled youth in speech and debate in order to better communicate a Biblical worldview.”[1]

Stoa USA is a non-profit organization run entirely by volunteers. It is governed by a Board of Directors who oversee its day to day operations and propose rule amendments which affect competitors nationwide.[1] Members vote on important issues, such as debate resolutions and significant rule changes.[1] Judges are usually parents, coaches, alumni, or members of the community.[8]

Stoa sanctions only one tournament each year, the National Invitational Tournament of Champions (NITOC) (referenced below).[9] Stoa exists to support state and local organizations in running tournaments, but recognizes the autonomy of those at the state and local level to operate in a manner that best serves their particular needs.[10]

Because homeschooled students are not typically associated with schools, most affiliates belong to member “Clubs.” Most club members live in the local area around where their club is based.[11]

Speechranks and the Point Recognition System

The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings, also known as Speechranks, is a comprehensive website that ranks Christian homeschooled speakers and debaters around the country who are in high school or middle school.[12] Speechranks was created in 2010 for promoting transparency and fairness in the Christian homeschool forensics community.[12] Results from Stoa tournaments are uploaded onto Speechranks by tournament administrators.[13] Speechranks also allows students to enter their own information if they compete in other Christian homeschool tournaments.[13] The website is monitored to ensure the integrity of the information entered. Viewers may also “Flag” results they believe to be in error.[14] According to its website, there were 1,946 active competitors on Speechranks during the 2016-2017 season.[15]

There are two ways that Speechranks measures student participation: Points and Green Check Marks.[16] Points are awarded to competitors based on the student’s percentile finish in each event. Students achieving the same percentile finish in any event and any tournament will be awarded the same number of Points.[17] A student’s three best finishes in a particular event are used to sum their total Points for that event.[16] Overall ranking on Speechranks is determined by the total number of Points a competitor has accumulated.[16] Green Check Marks recognize consistent excellence throughout the competitive season. There is no limit to the number of Green Check Marks a student may earn. In general, Green Check Marks are awarded to any competitor who achieves a winning record in debate or finishes in the top 40% of an individual event (IE).[16] Green Check Marks are unique to each event and students may not transfer checkmarks from one event to another.[16]

Speechranks requirements were drafted by Isaiah McPeak, with development chaired by Dr. Van Schalin and programmed by Connor McKay.[12] It utilizes the Ruby Programming Language, the same language Stoa uses for membership and tournament registration.[18]

National Invitational Tournament of Champions

Each year in late May or early June, the Stoa Board of Directors hosts the National Invitational Tournament of Champions, commonly referred to as NITOC.[19] There are two methods in which competitors may earn an invitation to NITOC. The first method, entitled the “National Invitational Model,” involves being awarded at least two Green Check Marks on Speechranks in one or more events.[20] In the second method, known as the “State Invitational Model,” the top speaker of each state in each individual event qualifies for an invitation, as well as the top two teams in Lincoln Douglas Debate and Team Policy Debate.[20] Participation at NITOC requires Stoa membership.[1] Students may compete in as many events at NITOC in which they are invited by either of the two invitational models.[21] The 2012 National Invitational Tournament of Champions, held in Colorado Springs, Colorado, was regarded as the largest tournament in the history of homeschool speech and debate, where nearly 600 students competed across 13 different events.[22]

Locations

Events

Debate[28]

Lincoln Douglas Value Debate

Team Policy Debate

American Parliamentary Debate[29]

Speech[30]

Limited Preparation

Apologetics. "In Apologetics, the competitor is given four (4) minutes to prepare a persuasive and reasoned speech that defends a tenet of the Christian faith and explains why that principle matters."[31]

Extemporaneous. "In Extemporaneous speaking, the competitor answers a given question based on recent events in the news. The competitor researches national and international current events and may create reference files of newsworthy information. Extemporaneous speech should be regarded as a demonstration of personal knowledge on the topic, as well as an original synthesis of numerous sources."[31]

Mars Hill Impromptu. "In Mars Hill Impromptu, the competitor uses books, movies, and other genre to discuss the appeal and impact of the theme(s) within the topic, holding them up in light of Christian truth found in the Bible. This event is intended for competitors 14 and older or with the consent of the parents due to mature themes in some topics."[31]

Platform

Expository. "An Expository is a prepared speech written by the competitor which explains and illustrates a topic through both words and visuals (e.g. illustrated boards, physical props, digital and electronic presentations, or any combination)."[31]

Original Oratory. "An Original Oratory is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, on a topic of the competitor’s choice. The purpose of this informative speech is to explain, describe, or expose the topic."[31]

Persuasive. "A persuasive speech is a prepared speech, written by the competitor, which advocates a specific position or course of action."[31]

Interpretive

Open Interpretation.

Duo Interpretation

Humorous Interpretation

Dramatic Interpretation

Wildcard[32][33]

2017-2018: Cold Reading, Demonstration

2016-2017: Monologue, Cold Reading

2015-2016: Motivational, Monologue

2014-2015: Broadcasting, Motivational

2013-2014: Storytelling, Broadcasting

2012-2013: Mars Hill Impromptu, Storytelling

2011-2012: Original Interpretation

Debate Resolutions

2017-2018

Team Policy: Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reform its transportation policy.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: Preemptive warfare is morally justified.

2016-2017

Team Policy: Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reform its agriculture and/or food safety policy in the United States.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: The needs of the public ought to be valued above private property rights.

2015-2016

Team Policy: Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reform its trade policy with one or more of the following nations: China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: In formal education liberal arts ought to be valued above practical skills. (from October 1, 2015 to January 30, 2016)

Resolved: Developing countries ought to prioritize economic growth over environmental protection. (from February 1, 2016 to April 30, 2016)

2014-2015

Team Policy: Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reform its electronic surveillance law.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: When in conflict, an individual's freedom of speech should be valued above a community's moral standards. (from October 1, 2014 to January 30, 2015)

Resolved: The United States federal jurisprudence, the letter of the law ought to have priority over the spirit of the law. (from February 1, 2015 to April 30, 2015)

2013-2014[34]

Team Policy: Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reform its marine natural resource policies.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: The United States has a moral obligation to mitigate international conflicts

2012-2013[35]

Team Policy: Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reform its foreign military presence and/or foreign military commitments.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: Privacy is undervalued.

Logo of Stoa USA, 2009-2012.[36]

2011-2012[28]

Team Policy: Resolved: That the United States federal government should substantially reform its revenue generation policies.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: When in conflict, personal freedom ought to be valued above economic security.

2010-2011[37][38]

Team Policy: Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should significantly reform its policy toward Russia.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: A government's legitimacy is determined more by its respect for popular sovereignty than individual rights.

2009-2010[38]

Team Policy: Resolved: That the United States Federal Government should significantly reform its environmental policy.

Lincoln-Douglas: Resolved: That competition is superior to cooperation as a means of achieving excellence.

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e "Bylaws of Stoa". Stoa USA. 2010-07-10. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  2. ^ a b "Letter to California Affiliates". Stoa California. 2009-08-10. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  3. ^ a b "Meet Those Serving Stoa". Stoa USA. 2014. Retrieved 2014-04-18.
  4. ^ "Home". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  5. ^ "Note to Parents and Coaches". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-22.
  6. ^ "Stoa". Merriam-Webster Dictionary. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  7. ^ a b ""Stoa"--What does that mean?". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  8. ^ "Debate Judges Orientation". Google Docs. 2011. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  9. ^ "NITOC 2013". Stoa USA. 2013. Retrieved 2013-06-02.
  10. ^ "Tournament Tabulation". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-22.
  11. ^ "State Organizations". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-22.
  12. ^ a b c "About This Site". Speechranks. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  13. ^ a b "Tournaments". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  14. ^ "What if I see an Error?—Flagging Results". Speechranks. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  15. ^ "Combined Speech and Debate Rankings". Speechranks. 2012. Retrieved 2012-06-14. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  16. ^ a b c d e "The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System". Speechranks. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  17. ^ "The National Christian Homeschool Speech and Debate Rankings Point and Recognition (Green Check Mark) System". Google Docs. 2011-12-22. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  18. ^ "About the Developer". Homeschooldebate.net. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  19. ^ "FAQ's". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  20. ^ a b "How to Receive a NITOC Invitation". Homeschooldebate.net. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  21. ^ "NITOC 2012". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  22. ^ "Focus on the Family Hosts Largest Homeschool Speech & Debate Tournament" (PDF). Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-08-07.
  23. ^ "NITOC 2014". Stoa USA. 2014. Retrieved 2014-04-18.
  24. ^ "NITOC 2013". Stoa USA. 2013. Retrieved 2014-04-18.
  25. ^ "NITOC 2012". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  26. ^ "NITOC 2011". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  27. ^ "NITOC 2010". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  28. ^ a b "Debate Events". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  29. ^ "NITOC 2013". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-08-27.
  30. ^ "Speech Events". Stoa USA. 2013. Retrieved 2013-10-24.
  31. ^ a b c d e f "Speech Events – StoaUSA". stoausa.org. Retrieved 2017-08-16.
  32. ^ "Resolution and Wild Card Vote". Stoa USA. 2013. Retrieved 2013-10-24.
  33. ^ "Speech Events". Stoa USA. 2017. Retrieved 2017-07-16. {{cite web}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |dead-url= (help)
  34. ^ "2013 Vote Results". Stoa USA. 2013. Retrieved 2013-05-03.
  35. ^ "Resolution and Wild Card Vote". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-05-03.
  36. ^ "Logo Contest Deadline Extended". Stoa USA. 2012. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  37. ^ "Debate Events". Stoa California. 2011. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
  38. ^ a b "Past Debate Resolutions". NCFCA. 2011. Retrieved 2012-02-15.
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