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Public Speaking

Ham The Jam

An engaging event that promotes interaction and camaraderie among students through fun and participative activities — fostering a creative and collaborative atmosphere.

Rounds: 2 (HAM + JAM)
Mode: Individual
Classes: 5–8
Max Participants: 20
Duration: 1.5 hours
Overview

Participants pick a chit and speak on the topic written on it for 30 seconds (in HAM) and 60 seconds (in JAM). If a participant fumbles, makes a grammatical error, takes an unnecessary or prolonged pause, or deviates from the topic, others may interject — stating a reason for the judges to evaluate. A valid interjection passes the remaining speaking time to the interjector.

Pre-Event Selection

Selection takes place 2 weeks before the event. Students are given one word and must speak on it for 30 seconds without stopping or deviating, with no grammatical or pronunciation errors. If a student is unfamiliar with the topic, hosts will offer a hint. Twenty students are selected from this round. Students may also HAM each other during the selection round.

Event Day
HAM — Half a Minute
Round 1 — HAM
Classes 5–8
  • Selected participants receive numbered pluck cards and are referred to by their card number.
  • Pick a chit and speak on the topic for 30 seconds.
  • Others interject by raising their pluck card and saying "HAM", then stating their reason.
  • If the reason is accepted by the judges, the interjector is awarded the remaining time to speak.
  • Invalid interjection reason = mark deduction.
  • Top 10 students qualify for the JAM round.
JAM — Just a Minute
Round 2 — JAM
Classes 5–8
  • 10 qualifiers from HAM compete in the JAM round.
  • Pick a chit and speak on the topic for 60 seconds.
  • Interject by raising your pluck card and saying "JAM", then stating your reason.
  • If the reason is accepted, the pending time is allotted to the interjector.
  • Top 3 students declared winners.
Rules & Notes
  • Participants may HAM/JAM only if the speaker: fumbles or stutters, deviates from the topic, takes a prolonged or unnecessary pause, or makes a grammatical error.
  • If the reason for interjection is considered irrelevant by the judges, marks will be deducted.
  • If a participant is unaware of a topic or word, they will be provided a three-word hint.
Judging Criteria
  • Creativity and originality
  • Theme relevance
  • Number of valid interjections
  • Timing and flow
  • Grammar
  • Confidence and overall impact
Event Hosts
HostKavya Tiwari (Class 11)
HostShruti Pandey (Class 12-C)
HostSonakshi (Class 11)