Club Day Events

A Career Exploration is...

• Researching a career that is new to you
• A presentation about that career

*NO ESSAY REQUIRED AS OF 2025*

Equipment Provided

• Table
• Easel

Rules

1. The presentation should include why you chose the career, the necessary skills, required education/training, and the future outlook for the selected career.
2. The entire presentation must be the original work of the 4-H member and abide by all copyright laws. All images and music must be cited correctly.
3. You must present your presentation in person.
4. The judge will serve as timekeeper.
5. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
6. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded by more than 30 seconds.

A Career Exploration is...

• Researching a career that is new to you
• A presentation about that career

*NO ESSAY REQUIRED AS OF 2025*

Equipment Provided

• Table
• Easel

Rules

1. The presentation should include why you chose the career, the necessary skills, required education/training, and the future outlook for the selected career.
2. The entire presentation must be the original work of the 4-H member and abide by all copyright laws. All images and music must be cited correctly.
3. You must present your presentation in person.
4. The judge will serve as timekeeper.
5. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
6. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded by more than 30 seconds.

A Digital Media Presentation...

• Using digital media such as slides, movies, or other digital platforms to create visual impact for your presentation on one topic. NO WIFI WILL BE AVAILABLE!
• Showcasing the most important part of the presentation

Equipment Provided:

• One Table
• Projector and Screen
• Extension Cord & Power Strip

Participants need to bring:

• A computer or device
• Any adapters that you need to connect to the Projector using HDMI
• Anything else you may need to connect and present your digital media presentation

Rules:

1. The age of the oldest member determines the competition age group. Example: A 9 & 11-year- old presenting together would be in the 10-13 age group
2. Endorsement of brand names is discouraged
3. Handouts or samples for judges are acceptable
4. The entire presentation must be the original work of the 4-H member and abide by all copyright laws. All images and music must be cited correctly
5. You must present your presentation in person
6. The judge will serve as the timekeeper
7. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct
8. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded by more than 30 seconds

Resources: (Can be found by performing a web search or ask your local office)
Mississippi State 4-H: Best Foot Forward; Helping 4-H members Create Dynamic Presentations.

A Historical Speech is...

• Presenting a speech originally given by a historical figure

Equipment Provided

• No equipment is needed fro this category

Rules:

1. Participants select all or a portion of a one speech previously given by someone else in a historical setting, such as Washington’s Inaugural Address, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, Sojourner Truths’ “Ain’t I a Woman” Speech, Reagan’s “Tear Down This Wall” Speech.
2. The original speaker and the setting for the selection should be introduced during the presentation.
3. A short section may be added to the presentation to explain the background and historical context of the selection.
4. 4-H members are encouraged to dress in the time - period and manner of the original speaker or audience. This is optional.
5. No props, or audiovisuals allowed.
6. Hands must not touch the floor, and one foot must remain on the floor at all times.
7. The entire presentation must be the original work of the 4-H member and abide by all copyright laws. All images and music must be cited correctly.
8. You must present your presentation in person.
9. The judge will serve as timekeeper.
10. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
11. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded by more than 30 seconds.

An impromptu Speech is...

• Written and presented on a topic that you draw 5 minutes prior to your speech.

Potential Impromptu Topics

Equipment provided:

• Note card and Pencil
• Topics to be drawn

Rules:

1. The 4-H member will draw three topics and choose one to speak on.
2. Topics not selected are returned to the pool to be drawn by another competitor.
3. Participant will have 5 minutes to prep.
4. Prep time arrangements will be left to the County/District at their competitions. Regional 4-H Presentation Day Prep Time will be done in the room with the judge.
5. No outside resources may be brought into the prep area.
6. The 4-H member must speak about the topic selected and clearly state the topic in the speech’s introduction.
7. You must present your presentation in person.
8. The judge will serve as the timekeeper.
9. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
10. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded by more than 30 seconds.

Resources: (Can be found at the K-State bookstore or ask your local office

• Kansas 4-H Effective Presentation Tips Publication 4H984

(Formerly Oral Interpretation)

Poetry and Prose is...

• Reading an excerpt from a book or written work using voices, gestures, facial expressions, narrations, and other means of creating a dramatic storytelling.

Equipment Provided:

• No equipment is needed for this category.

Rules:

1. The age of the oldest member determines the competition age group. Example: A 9 & 11-year- old presenting together would be in the 10-13 age group.
2. Participants select all or a portion of a piece of literature (books, poetry, etc.). The selection can be published material or the participant’s own work.
3. The title and author of the selection should be introduced during the presentation.
4. A short section may be added to the presentation to explain the context of the selection, particularly if it is taken from a longer work.
5. No props, audiovisuals, or costumes allowed.
6. Hands must not touch the floor, and one foot must remain on the floor at all times.
7. The entire presentation must abide by all copyright laws. All images and music must be cited correctly. You must present your presentation in person. Presentation does not have to be memorized.
8. The judge will serve as timekeeper.
9. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
10. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded by more than 30 seconds.

Public Speaking is...

• Writing and delivering a persuasive, entertaining, informational or inspiring speech on a given topic.

Equipment Provided:

• No equipment is needed for this category

Rules:

1. Topic selection is unlimited. The speech may pose a problem, offer a solution, strengthen devotion to a cause, eulogize a person, entertain, or inform.
2. Endorsement of brand names is discouraged.
3. You must present your presentation in person.
4. The judge will serve as timekeeper.
5. No digital media presentation allowed. They should be entered under the Digital Media Presentations.
6. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
7. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded by more than 30 seconds.

Resources: (Can be found at the K-State bookstore or ask your local office)

• Kansas 4-H Public Speaking Guide, Publication 4H983
• Kansas 4-H Preparing and Using Visual Aids, Publication 4H985

A Show & Share is..

• For 5- to 9-year-olds. (Cloverbuds and 1st-2nd year 4-H members
• Giving a short “show and tell” presentation
• NON-COMPETITIVE – Participation Ribbons Awarded Only!

Equipment Provided

• One Table
• One Easel

Rules:

1. This is a non-competitive event, and every participant will receive a participation ribbon
2. A “judge” will be in the room to visit with show and share participants about their presentation
3. You must present your presentation in person
4. The judge will serve as timekeeper
5. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct

A Show & Share is..

• For 5- to 9-year-olds. (Cloverbuds and 1st-2nd year 4-H members
• Giving a short “show and tell” presentation
• NON-COMPETITIVE – Participation Ribbons Awarded Only!

Equipment Provided

• One Table
• One Easel

Rules:

1. This is a non-competitive event, and every participant will receive a participation ribbon
2. A “judge” will be in the room to visit with show and share participants about their presentation
3. You must present your presentation in person
4. The judge will serve as timekeeper
5. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct

Objectives

• Conducting an effective business meeting.
• Using an agenda to organize a meeting.
• Reporting accurate committee and officer information.
• Discussing issues in a meaningful manner.
• Implementing proper parliamentary procedures to reach equitable group decisions.
• Working as a team.
• These skills encourage youth to become more efficient in their ability to use parliamentary procedure effectively in the formal part of their club meetings, which in turn strengthens the club and serves as a model for other members

Equipment Provided

• One table and one easel will be provided in the performance room.
• Flags and Gavel will be provided.

Participants Need to Bring

• The club will bring everything else they need to perform their Model Meeting.
• Contact your Extension Office for accommodations.

Rules

1. The group may be composed of any number of 4-H members and leaders. Cloverbuds may not participate in the Model Meeting. The presentation should give the impression of an actual 4-H metting. Look at and talk to 4-Hers, not to the audience watching the presentation. All members are expected to participate in the meeting.
2. An agenda of the Model Metting must be presented to the judge before the meeting is called to order. The agenda should include the following as spelled out on the judging score sheet with suggested time frames:
   1. Opening Ceremony and Business Meeting: 12-14 minutes
   2. Program: 14-16 minutes
   3. Recreation: 4-5 minutes
   4. Closing Ceremony and Announcements: 4-5 minutes
3. The meeting may include a ceremony, which would be incorporated into the time frames above
4. During the Model Meeting, the secretary should take notes. After the meeting, the secretary must turn in the Model Meeting notes and the up-to-date secretary's book. If more than one club is represented in the group, only one secretary's book of the Model Meeting secretary needs to be presented to the judge
5. Recreation may be at any time during the meeting
6. The club determines which officers sit up front during the meeting
7. The performer should recognize this as a family event and choose costumes, themes, and performances that show respect for the performers and the audience

Solo Dance is...

• A dance routine performed by one 4-H member.

Equipment Provided

• Performance area may have any kind of surface and should be large enough for up to 30 people such as a stage or gym floor.

Participants need to bring

• Accompaniment is optional and must be recorded. Performers opting to use accompaniment must provide equipment to play the recorded accompaniment.
• Props as needed; no sets

Rules

1. Dancers should introduce themselves including the names of the participants and their 4-H club(s). Introductions should also include the type of dance being performed.
2. You must present your presentation in person
3. Recorded music for accompaniment is allowed in all music divisions. Accompanists do not have to be 4-H members.
4. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
5. Judge will deduct one ribbon placing if time is exceeded; 30-second grace period.
6. Judge will serve as the timekeeper

Group Dance is ...

• A dance routine performed by 2 or more 4-H members.

Equipment Provided

• Performance area may have any kind of surface and should be large enough for up to 30 people such as a stage or gym floor.

Participants need to bring

• Accompaniment is optional and must be recorded. Performers opting to use accompaniment must provide equipment to play the recorded accompaniment.
• Props as needed; no sets

Rules

1. Small group is composed of 2 to 6 4-H members. Large Group is composed of 7 or more 4-H members (Cloverbuds cannot perform in this category.)
2. Each group will dance one selection of their own choosing.
3. One performer should introduce the dance and the group performing.
4. Accompaniment is optional.
5. Recorded music for accompaniment is allowed in all music divisions. Accompanists do not have to be 4-H members.
6. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
7. Groups will perform one dance.
8. All dancers must be current 4-H members

A One Act Play is...

• A theatrical piece that consists of a single continuous scene without any breaks or intermissions

A Skit is ...

• A short acting performance that is more extemporaneous and less developed than plays in presentation and staging. Skit may be improvisational in nature or may be loosely scripted and lightly rehearsed.

Equipment Provided

• Performance area may have any kind of surface and should be large enough for up to 30 people such as a stage or gym floor.

Participants need to bring:

• Performers must provide all scenery, property, effects and backdrop. Stage drapes may be available to use as a backdrop but are not guaranteed to be available

Rules

1. Entries are limited to one-act plays. Only one set is allowed. (Cloverbuds cannot perform in this category.)
2. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
3. State place where and time when the play takes place unless the performance makes it clear.
4. Each cast should have at least one person in charge of stage arrangements, to pull the curtain, and to set the stage.
5. The one act plays or skits can be either an original or a published script. If a royalty play or skit is used, the group must be responsible for the royalty.
6. Skits can be lightly rehearsed or improvised from a given basic situation for the theme of the skit
7. Performers should introduce themselves including the names of the participants and their 4-H club(s). Introductions should also include a brief description of the performance.
8. The curtain may be dropped to denote the passing of time. A change of setting is not permitted during the drop of the curtain.
9. Be prepared for flexibility in staging the play whether in a classroom or on a stage.
10. Judge will serve as timekeeper and will deduct one ribbon if time is exceeded.
11. No straw, confetti, or similar materials will be allowed in performances

Solo or Duo Acting is...

• A monologue or scene with one or two characters. Performance can be serious or humorous.

Equipment Provided

• Performance area may have any kind of surface and should be large enough for up to 30 people such as a stage or gym floor.

Participants need to bring:

• Performers must provide all scenery, property, effects and backdrop. Stage drapes may be available to use as a backdrop but are not guaranteed to be available

Rules:

1. You must present your presentation in person.
2. The age of the oldest member determines the competition age group. Example: A 9 & 11-year- old presenting together would be in the 10-13 age group.
3. Selections should be primarily dialogue and action.
4. Selection can be original or from previously published literature. Selection is to be memorized.
5. Performers should introduce themselves including the names of the participants and their 4-H club(s). Introductions should also include a brief description of the performance. The title and author of the selection should be noted in the introduction. (A one-ribbon penalty is required for failure to do so.) The identification of the piece should be near its beginning but may follow a teaser or other background information.
6. Costumes are optional, but suggested.
7. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct

Solo or Duo Novelty is...

• A performance by 1 or 2 4-H members that includes novelty acts such as musical freestyle, stunts, pantomime, puppets, marionettes, magic routines, ventriloquist acts, baton routines, gymnastic routines, folk music without a score, stand-up comedy, or other types of talent or original material

Equipment Provided

• Performance area may have any kind of surface and should be large enough for up to 30 people such as a stage or gym floor.

Participants need to bring:

• Performers must provide all scenery, property, effects and backdrop. Stage drapes may be available to use as a backdrop but are not guaranteed to be available

Rules

1. You must present your presentation in person
2. The age of the oldest member determines the competition age group. Example: A 9 & 11-year- old presenting together would be in the 10-13 age group.
3. Performers should introduce themselves including the names of the participants and their 4-H club(s). Introductions should also include a brief description of the performance. The title and author of the selection should be noted in the introduction. (A one-ribbon penalty is required for failure to do so.) The identification of the piece should be near its beginning but may follow a teaser or other background information.
4. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
5. Costumes are optional.
6. Novelty is for all other theatrical performances that are not included in another category including performing with animals

• An instrumental performance by one individual showcasing one music selection

Equipment Provided

• A piano or electric keyboard will be available for performer or accompanist.
• A music stand will be provided.
• Some counties/districts may provide a practice room but not all facilities will be able to provide this. A piano will not be provided in the practice room.

Participants Need to Bring

• Original copy of the music provided to the judge with measures numbered and your name on your music.
• Participants must furnish their own sound equipment and personnel to play the accompaniment.

Rules

1. All 4-H members must have an original copy of music for the judge. Original music may be proven by original copy or proof of purchase from the internet or copy of music with letter of permission to use. Failure to present original copy of music to judge will result in lowering the placing by one ribbon.
2. You must present your presentation in person.
3. Participants should pick up their music after the results are announced.
4. Accompaniment is optional.
5. Recorded music for accompaniment is allowed in all music divisions. Accompanists do not have to be 4-H members.
6. Contestants may only enter the Instrumental Solo division one time.
7. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
8. Participant will perform only one number.
9. Number does not need to be memorized.
10. Many 4-H judges prefer unaccompanied instrumental solo

Intrumental Ensemble is...

• An instrumental performance by two or more individuals showcasing two music selection.

Equipment Provided

• A piano OR electric keyboard may be available for performer or accompanist.
• A music stand will be provided.
• Some counties/districts may provide a practice room but not all facilities will be able to provide this. A piano will not be provided in the practice room.

Participants Need to Bring

• Original copy of the music provided to the judge with measures numbered and your name on your music. If a large group, conductor’s score original should be given to judge.
• Participants must furnish their own sound equipment and personnel to play the accompaniment.

Rules

1. Group may be composed of 2 or more 4-H members, not including the accompanist. (Cloverbuds cannot perform in this category.)
2. All 4-H members must have an original copy of music for the judge. Original music may be proven by original copy or proof of purchase from the internet or copy of music with letter of permission to use. Failure to present original copy of music to judge will result in lowering the placing by one ribbon.
3. The instrumentation should include only recognized instruments of the band or orchestra.
4. The director is not required to be a 4-H member, but they may not play with the group unless they are a 4-H member.
5. You must present your presentation in person.
6. Participants should pick up their music after the results are announced.
7. Accompaniment is optional.
8. Recorded music for accompaniment is allowed in all music divisions. Accompanists do not have to be 4-H members.
9. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
10. Participants will perform two numbers.
    
    1. Selections do not need to be memorized.
    2. One performer should introduce the piece including the title and composer

Vocal Solos are...

• A vocal performance by one individual showcasing one music selection.

Equipment Provided

• A piano or electric keyboard will be available for performer or accompanist.
• A music stand will be provided.
• Some counties/districts may provide a practice room but not all facilities will be able to provide this. A piano will not be provided in the practice room.

Participants Need to Bring

• Original copy of the music provided to the judge with measures numbered and your name on your music.
• Participants must furnish their own sound equipment and personnel to play the accompaniment.

Rules:

1. All 4-H members must have an original copy of music for the judge. Original music may be proven by original copy or proof of purchase from the internet or copy of music with letter of permission to use. Failure to present original copy of music to judge will result in lowering the placing by one ribbon.
2. You must present your presentation in person.
3. Participants should pick up their music after the results are announced.
4. Accompaniment is optional.
5. Recorded music for accompaniment is allowed in all music divisions. Accompanists do not have to be 4-H members.
6. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
7. Participant will perform only one number.
8. Number does not need to be memorized.

(Formerly Vocal Ensembles & Choruses)

A Vocal Ensemble is...

• A vocal performance by two or more individuals showcasing two music selections

Equipment Provided

• A piano OR electric keyboard may be available for performer or accompanist.
• A music stand will be provided.
• Some counties/districts may provide a practice room but not all facilities will be able to provide this. A piano will not be provided in the practice room.

Participants Need to Bring

• Original copy of the music provided to the judge with measures numbered and your name on your music. If a large group, conductor’s score original should be given to judge.
• Participants must furnish their own sound equipment and personnel to play the accompaniment.

Rules

1. Group may be composed of 2 or more 4-H members, not including the accompanist. (Cloverbuds cannot perform in this category.)
2. All 4-H members must have an original copy of music for the judge. Original music may be proven by original copy or proof of purchase from the internet or copy of music with letter of permission to use. Failure to present original copy of music to judge will result in lowering the placing by one ribbon.
3. You must present your presentation in person.
4. Simple props may be used to enhance your performance.
5. Participants should pick up their music after the results are announced.
6. Accompaniment is optional.
7. Recorded music for accompaniment is allowed in all music divisions. Accompanists do not have to be 4-H members.
8. Topics, visuals, props, language, and attire should be family-friendly and not violate the Kansas 4-H Code of Conduct.
9. Participants will perform two numbers.
10. Selections do not need to be memorized.
11. One performer should introduce the piece including the title and composer