From gay rights to going ‘Goth’, Mr. Benson’s epic speech assignment is one to remember. Every year, just before Christmas break, his AP language class presents their epic speeches. This is an interactive presentation that includes elaborate costumes, props, and even music that coincides with the student’s topic. The students are given free reign over what they can write about from the most serious of topics to the most outrageous ideas possible. Not only does this project bring out students creative side; it also requires the use of rhetorical devices.

“I chose my topic because I wanted to explain why we think what we think in my church,” Thaovi Nguyen said. Nguyen chose to present a serious and rather controversial topic, while other students chose funny topics without big political points. A member of the Catholic Church, she discussed her church’s opinion on gay marriage. “I am excited to express my religion, but I am also nervous to present my speech in front of the class.”

On the other hand, Madison Kuligoski chose to do her speech on ‘Goths.’ “I think Goths are kind of misunderstood and I wanted to play off that and make it kind of funny,” Kuligoski said. She dressed up in “Goth” clothing and created a video of her speech to present to the class. “I don’t really have much emotion so it was kind of easy to get into character,” Kuligoski said.

Getting into the persona of your character while presenting as is very important to the success of each student’s speech. No matter the subject, the epic speeches are a different way to utilize what students are learning in Mr. Benson’s AP language class.