This impressive tradition of excellence belongs to Eastern Michigan's Forensics Team. The forensics team is a competitive speech team whose competitions can be compared to a track meet. Each of EMU's 45 forensics competitors participate in individual events. Point totals for placing in these events are then compiled to give a team score. Invitational competitions are held almost every weekend and prepare the team members for the National Forensics Association's Championships.
Individuals compete in three major categories.
Interpretation of Literature requires members to recite a literary selection that is no longer than ten minutes in length. This includes an original introduction which presents a theme or message. In the Limited Preparation events, participants given an impromptu or extemporaneous speech. The impromptu event allows seven minutes to be divided between preparation and speaking on a given topic and extemporaneous allows thirty minutes to prepare a seven minute speech on one of three given topics. The public address category involves original speeches that are to be written and memorized by the competitor.