Q. For Phase I Interpretation can I use a piece that does not have an ISBN number but has a title and author, and is not an original piece?
A. Yes. According to the rules document and script submission form, you do not need an ISBN number. You will, however, need to have a copy of the copyright page.
Q: Is it acceptable to use an internet source for my original source document as long as the piece I am using was originally from a book?
A: No, we require that you find an original source document and copy it. This is to ensure that source material was not added to, subtracted from, or altered.
Q: May I quote something that is considered in the public domain without having the original source document?
A: No, we require that you find an original source document and copy it.
Q. What does it mean to “include source material”?
A. For interpretive events, the speaker should photocopy a physical copy of the primary source written by the author.
Q. What is a “copyright page”?
A. If applicable, the copyright page can be found in the front of the source material. This page will usually include the publishing information and ISBN number. If there is no copyright page, note it on your script submission form.
Q. What is the purpose of the introduction in interpretations?
A. The purpose of the introduction for Interpretations is to let your audience know – briefly and in your own words – the main purpose/message of the piece you have selected as well as a short summary of the plot leading up to your interpretation. You may additionally use some lines from the literature itself, a quote from another source, or a Scripture reference if appropriate. Make sure to provide the proper citation required in your Script Submission if you use a quote or Scripture reference in the introduction.
Q. Does the speaker have to state the title and author of the source material in interpretive speeches?
A. Yes. The speaker should tell the audience what is the source material being interpreted.
Q. For Phase I Interpretation, can I cut out narrative elements such as “he said” and “she replied”?
A. No. Since Phase I competitors have received limited training in Christian communication, ethics, and preserving the author’s intent, a Phase I Interpretation speech must be taken word for word from the source material.
Q. Does the above answer mean that dialogue from a play that includes “Achilles:” and “Tortoise:” before the character’s lines must be kept in the Interpretation?
A. No. The best representation of the author’s intent is that these sorts of “stage notes” not be spoken aloud during the interpretation of the literature.
Q. What is the purpose of the binder/notebook in the Phase III Thematic Religious Reading event?
A. The binder/notebook held by the speaker must contain a copy of the script, but can be used creatively by the speaker as a prop that is incorporated into the speech.
Q. In Phase III Thematic Religious Reading, is it required that literary sources be incorporated into the presentation?
A. Yes, it is required. The speaker should develop a particular theme using scripture and literary material.
Q. For Phase II Duo Interpretation, are the speakers required to provide source material?
A. Speakers are required to provide photocopied source material for any interpreted piece of the presentation written by another author.
Q. What is a “citation page”?
A. The citation page should reference all quoted material from your speech. The easiest way to do this is through MLA formatting. Purdue University has a helpful website for citation formatting.
Q. Do I have to name the sources of my quotations in my speech?
A. Yes. Speakers must make it clear in every presentation whether their words are their own or from someone else. Ideas, concepts, and theories from others should be properly referenced verbally in the speech.