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American Association
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 American Association of Christian Schools

2020 National Competition Manual

Bible
Music
Speech
Art
Academics

2020 Edition
Copyright
The AACS National Competition Manual is copyrighted material. Please adhere to the following.
1. The manual that you purchased is for use by your school only. Other schools must purchase their own
manuals.
2. Each school can print the manual or portions of the manual as needed. For example, you may print the
rules for a particular area or the judging forms for your school use as needed.
3. Do not forward the link or document to any other school or anyone other than school personnel.
4. Do not post the link on any website.

© 2020 American Association of Christian Schools

All rights reserved. No part of this publication or the related files may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any
form, by any means (electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) beyond the school that is the purchaser of the
manual without the prior written permission of the publisher.
 National Competition Manual – Table of Contents

Table of Contents
General Information ............................................................................................................................................... 3
Purpose ................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Eligibility of Contestants ......................................................................................................................................... 3
Eligibility of Entries.................................................................................................................................................. 3
Limitation of Contestants ....................................................................................................................................... 3
State Coordinator.................................................................................................................................................... 4
Registration ............................................................................................................................................................. 4
Date and Location ................................................................................................................................................... 4
Classes of Competition ........................................................................................................................................... 4
Awards .................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Dress and Conduct Code ......................................................................................................................................... 4
The Dress Code ................................................................................................................................................. 4
The Conduct Code ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Time Limitation and Disqualification ...................................................................................................................... 6
Performance Time .................................................................................................................................................. 6
Music ....................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Judging Forms ......................................................................................................................................................... 7
Bible Usage.............................................................................................................................................................. 7
Recording Policy ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
Competition Annual Update ................................................................................................................................... 7
Copyright ................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Area One: Bible ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
Bible General Rules ............................................................................................................................................... 11
Rules by Category ................................................................................................................................................. 11
Category 1: Bible Quizzing .............................................................................................................................. 11
Category 2: Bible Memory .............................................................................................................................. 20
Category 3: Bible Teaching ............................................................................................................................. 22
Bible Preaching General Rules .............................................................................................................................. 22
Rules by Category ................................................................................................................................................. 23
Category 4: Expository Preaching ................................................................................................................... 23
Category 5: Evangelistic Preaching ................................................................................................................. 23
Category 6: Topical Preaching ........................................................................................................................ 23

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 National Competition Manual – Table of Contents

Area Two: Music ................................................................................................................................................... 27

Music General Rules ............................................................................................................................................. 27
Rules by Category (Individual Competition) ......................................................................................................... 29
Category 1, 2: Female Vocal Solo, Male Vocal Solo ........................................................................................ 29
Category 3, 4: Brass Solo, Woodwind Solo ..................................................................................................... 29
Category 5: String Solo .................................................................................................................................... 30
Category 6: Percussion Solo ............................................................................................................................ 30
Category 7, 8: Sacred Piano Solo, Classical Piano Solo ................................................................................... 30
Rules by Category (Group Competition) ............................................................................................................... 30
Category 9, 10: Small Vocal Ensemble, Large Vocal Ensemble ...................................................................... 30
Category 11: Choral Group ............................................................................................................................. 31
Category 12, 13, 15: Small Instrumental Ensemble, Large Instrumental Ensemble, Handbell/Handchime
Ensemble ......................................................................................................................................................... 31
Category 14: Orchestra/Band ......................................................................................................................... 31
Category 16: Handbell/Handchime Choir ....................................................................................................... 32
Category 17, 18: Sacred Piano Duet, Classical Piano Duet ............................................................................. 32
Area Three: Speech ............................................................................................................................................... 35
Speech General Rules ........................................................................................................................................... 35
Rules by Category (Individual Competition) ......................................................................................................... 36
Category 1: Dramatic Interpretation .............................................................................................................. 36
Category 2: Oral Interpretation of Poetry ...................................................................................................... 36
Category 3: Religious Reading ........................................................................................................................ 36
Category 4: Declamation ................................................................................................................................ 37
Category 5: Humorous Interpretation ............................................................................................................ 37
Category 6: Original Persuasive Oratory......................................................................................................... 37
Category 7: Extemporaneous Speaking .......................................................................................................... 37
Category 8: Oral Interpretation of Scripture .................................................................................................. 38
Rules by Category (Group Competition) ............................................................................................................... 38
Category 9: Acting ........................................................................................................................................... 38
Category 10: Readers Theatre ........................................................................................................................ 39
Category 11: Choric Speaking ......................................................................................................................... 39
Category 12: Debate ....................................................................................................................................... 40

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Area Four: Art........................................................................................................................................................ 43

Art General Rules .................................................................................................................................................. 43
Rules by Category ................................................................................................................................................. 44
Category 1: Calligraphy ................................................................................................................................... 44
Category 2: Monochromatic Drawing ............................................................................................................ 44
Category 3: Polychromatic Drawing ............................................................................................................... 44
Category 4: Watercolor................................................................................................................................... 45
Category 5: Oil Painting .................................................................................................................................. 45
Category 6: Acrylic Painting ............................................................................................................................ 45
Category 7: Sculpture...................................................................................................................................... 45
Category 8: Garment Construction ................................................................................................................. 45
Category 9: Textiles......................................................................................................................................... 46
Category 10: Crafts ......................................................................................................................................... 46
Category 11: Printmaking ............................................................................................................................... 46
Category 12: Digital Media ............................................................................................................................. 47
Category 13: Woodworking ............................................................................................................................ 47
Category 14: Mixed Media.............................................................................................................................. 47
General Rules for Photography: Category 15, Category 16, Category 17 ............................................................ 48
Category 15: Still Life and Macro Photography .............................................................................................. 48
Category 16: Landscapes and Architecture Photography .............................................................................. 48
Category 17: People and Animal Photography ............................................................................................... 48
Area Five: Academics ............................................................................................................................................ 51
Academic General Rules ....................................................................................................................................... 51
Division 1: Bible and Academic Testing General Rules ......................................................................................... 51
Rules by Category ................................................................................................................................................. 52
Category 1: Old Testament Bible Knowledge ................................................................................................. 52
Category 2: New Testament Bible Knowledge ............................................................................................... 52
Category 3: English.......................................................................................................................................... 52
Category 4: Algebra/Geometry....................................................................................................................... 53
Category 5: Advanced Mathematics ............................................................................................................... 53
Category 6: Biology ......................................................................................................................................... 53
Category 7: Chemistry..................................................................................................................................... 53
Category 8: Physics ......................................................................................................................................... 54

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Category 9: World History/Geography ........................................................................................................... 54

Category 10: U.S. History/Geography ............................................................................................................. 54
Category 11: Accounting ................................................................................................................................. 54
Category 12: Home Economics ....................................................................................................................... 55
Category 13: Political Science/Economics ...................................................................................................... 55
Category 14: Music Theory ............................................................................................................................. 55
Category 15: Spanish ...................................................................................................................................... 55
Division 2: Spelling Rules ...................................................................................................................................... 55
Category 16: Spelling ...................................................................................................................................... 55
Division 3: Composition General Rules ................................................................................................................. 57
Category 17: Creative Writing: Poetry ............................................................................................................ 57
Category 18: Expository Writing: Essay .......................................................................................................... 58
Division 4: Science Fair General Rules .................................................................................................................. 58
Category 19: Biological Sciences ..................................................................................................................... 59
Category 20: Physical Sciences ....................................................................................................................... 59
Appendix: Bible Memory ...................................................................................................................................... 63
Appendix: Debate ................................................................................................................................................. 93
Judging Forms ....................................................................................................................................................... 99

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2020 National Competition Manual

General Information
 National Competition Manual – General Information

General Information

Purpose
The AACS National Competition has been organized to provide a challenge toward excellence among the
students of AACS member schools. This competition will allow Christian young people to develop disciplined
skills in various areas of proficiency so that they might better serve the Lord throughout their lives. Certainly a
worthy goal of Christian education is to follow the example of our Savior who “increased in wisdom and
stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).

Eligibility of Contestants
Only senior high students (grades 9–12) who have won or placed in an AACS certified state or regional
competition may participate in the National Competition. However, this requirement will be waived for the
following exceptions: students in grades 7 and 8 may compete in Orchestra/Band and Handbell/Handchime
Choir. Students will be allowed to compete only if their school is currently a member of a state association or
is an associate-member school which is in good standing with the AACS. A state may enter only one individual
or group in each category.

Eligibility of Entries
The same entry (i.e., music composition, speech manuscript, art entry, science fair project, sermon, or Bible
teaching lesson) which placed at the state level must be entered in National Competition. See General Rules of
each area for additional eligibility requirements.

Limitation of Contestants
Competition is divided into five areas (Bible, Music, Speech, Art, and Academics). In individual competition a
student may enter one category in each of these areas: Bible, Music, and Speech. In addition, a student may
enter one or two Art categories and one or two Academic categories. However, he may not enter both
composition categories or both science fair categories. (See Academic General Rules.)

Example: A student may enter Sacred Piano, Declamation, English Testing, Calligraphy, and Sculpture.
Example: A student may enter Expository Preaching, Vocal Solo, Sculpture, Old Testament Bible
Knowledge, and English.

This applies only to individual competition. A student may enter group competition in addition to the
individual categories.

Note: Students entering Bible Memory, Debate, and Spelling may encounter irreconcilable scheduling
conflicts and should limit their competition to one of these categories. Bible Memory, Debate, and Spelling are
scheduled at specific times and for blocks of time that cannot be adjusted. Debate especially can involve a
competitor for several hours. If a competitor is involved in other performance events that conflict, he will be
required to forfeit a conflicting event.

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 National Competition Manual – General Information

State Coordinator
The State Association will designate a State Competition Coordinator who will serve as a liaison between the
AACS Competition Director and the State Association. It will be the responsibility of the State Competition
Coordinator to certify the eligibility of each student entered from his state. The State Coordinator will also be
responsible to secure the registration for those students who qualify from his state in the National
Competition.

Registration
Registration must be completed in accordance with the instructions provided by the AACS National Office.
Failure to submit the appropriate registration forms by the indicated deadline may result in disqualification.
Entry fees and room and board fees will be determined annually.

Date and Location

The dates and location of the Competition will be set by the AACS National Office.

Classes of Competition
Two class distinctions shall be made in the categories of Choral Group, Handbell/Handchime Choir, and
Orchestra/Band. Class A groups in these categories are allowed to participate at the Class AA level if they did
so at their state competition.

Class A .......... 60 or fewer students in senior high (grades 9–12)

Class AA........ 61 or more students in senior high (grades 9–12)

Awards
Awards will be given for first, second, and third place. The state association which receives the most points
(three points for first, two points for second, and one point for third) will be awarded the AACS Cup of
Excellence.

Dress and Conduct Code

The AACS believes that our National Competition should have the highest standards of competition and
Christian testimony. Therefore, because this event is the highest level of competition for AACS students in the
nation, all participating students and adult sponsors are expected to display the utmost respect for and strict
adherence to these standards. Failure to do so may result in disqualification. The Dress Code and Conduct
Code must be followed at all times—whether during a competition or apart from a competition.

The Dress Code

1. Girls’ and ladies’ skirts will be knee-length or longer, and necklines will not be exceedingly low or open in
the front or back. No slacks or shorts may be worn outside the residence halls, except as noted below for
activities on the athletic fields or in the gymnasiums.
2. Boys and men will wear neat shirts with a collar, tucked in, and dress slacks. Hair should be short—off the
collar and ears, above the eyebrows, tapered in the back, combed, with no long sideburns. No beards or

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mustaches will be permitted for students. Jeans are not to be worn, except as noted below for activities on
the athletic fields or in the gymnasiums.
3. Shorts or tank tops are not allowed outside the residence halls. Sunbathing is not permitted anywhere on
campus.
4. Appropriate dress for the evening services includes the following: Boys/men–dress slacks, dress shoes*,
dress shirt with collar; Girls/ladies–Sunday-type dress outfit, and dress shoes*.
Appropriate dress for the Awards Program includes the following: Boys/men–dress slacks, dress shoes*,
dress shirt with collar, neck tie, and preferably a sport coat or suit; Girls/ladies–Sunday-type dress outfit,
and dress shoes*.
*Dress shoes are not beach or shower shoes or tennis shoes. Boys/men—no tennis shoes, no sandals;
Girls/ladies—no tennis shoes, no beach/shower shoes.
5. Participants in activities on the athletic fields/gymnasiums may dress as follows: Boys/men—jeans, knee-
length shorts, T-shirts, athletic shoes; Girls/ladies—loose-fitting slacks (no jeans), loose-fitting knee-length
shorts or culottes, athletic shoes.

The Conduct Code

1. The conduct of students is expected to meet the standard for believers in 1 Timothy 4:12. Patience,
kindness, and good sportsmanship are to be displayed at all times for all students, sponsors, parents, and
visitors. Insubordination or disruptive behavior by any student, sponsor, parent, or visitor toward any
judge(s) or competition official(s) will not be tolerated. Inappropriate behavior will be grounds for
disqualification from competition and/or expulsion from the campus.
2. Violating AACS rules may result in disqualification from all events and/or disqualification from the
following year’s competition. The AACS National Competition Office will make the final decision in all
disciplinary situations.
3. Any individual or group practicing during AACS chapels, or not attending chapel or other required services,
will be disqualified from all events and/or disqualified from the following year’s competition. The
disqualification of one or more students for the following year’s competition may be extended to the
school.
4. Individuals or groups that are staying in residence halls must attend residence hall evening prayer group
meetings, if prayer group meetings are scheduled. Those not attending will have their names and their
school’s name submitted to the AACS National Competition Office.
5. Any individual vandalizing or stealing will be subject to disqualification and possible immediate expulsion
from the campus at the individual’s expense.
6. Inappropriate behavior during the chapel services or the evening programs could result in a school’s
disqualification from all events and/or disqualification from the following year’s competition. This includes
inappropriate behavior in response to the presentation of awards to groups and individual students during
the Thursday night Awards Program. The result of such behavior can be exclusion from the following year’s
competition.
7. AACS participants are to remain on campus at all times, unless under the supervision of an adult staff
member from his/her school.

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 National Competition Manual – General Information

Time Limitation and Disqualification

Students will be penalized for going over time or under time in any category of competition where time limits
are established. When a student violates his time limit by more than one minute, the student will be
disqualified. However, if he is over time or under time, but not by one minute, points or a fraction of a point
will be deducted which will prevent an otherwise first-place winner from placing first, a second-place winner
from placing second, or a third-place winner from placing third. Exception: The time limit for an academic
category cannot exceed the time stated in the instructions.

Performance Time
Individual contestants and groups must arrive at the competition room no less than five minutes prior to their
scheduled performance time, unless prior arrangements have been made with the judges in the room. Failure
to meet this requirement can result in disqualification.

Music
Contestants will need originals of each selection of music performed for judges to reference. If the
contestant(s) or accompanist will be using music for any performance, those will also need to be originals.
Photocopies are not permitted.

Category Number of Originals for Judges to Reference

Individual Events (Categories 1–8) one
Group Events (Categories 9–11, 14–16) three
(Categories 12–13, Instrumental Ensembles) one
(Categories 17–18, Piano Duets) two

Photocopies are permitted only with the publisher’s permission. Permission from the publisher must be
attached to each copy that is supplied to the judges. Use of photocopies without publisher permission will be
penalized. Photocopies of music may be used only under the following circumstances.
1. The music is in the public domain—either it is not copyrighted or the copyright date is 1922 or earlier.
2. The copyrighted music has been ordered but not yet received, and the contestant presents a note from a
music store stating that he has ordered and paid for the music.
3. The contestant presents a letter from the publisher or the copyright holder giving permission to copy the
music. Permission from the publisher must be attached to each copy that is supplied to the judges.
Publishers often grant permission for adjudication. Band directors should note that most publishers sell
the additional score for a significantly reduced price.
4. The contestant or accompanist may reproduce single pages to facilitate page turns. The original published
score must also be present on the music stand and/or music rack.
5. An emergency copy may be made to replace previously purchased copies which for any reason are not
available for an imminent performance. The purchased replacement copies must be substituted at the
earliest opportunity.
6. If the contestant is using digital sheet music or something similar printed from an online download, he/she
will need to provide proof of purchase or a “permission to use letter” with the music. Permission from the
publisher must be attached to each copy that is supplied to the judges.

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 National Competition Manual – General Information

Please note further the following copyright considerations.

1. Copyrighted music may be edited or simplified provided that the fundamental character—melodically and
harmonically—of the work is not distorted. Minor deviations from the printed music must be clearly
marked on the music given to judges.
2. Copyrighted lyrics may not be changed without permission of the copyright holder.
3. Personal arrangements of a copyrighted work must have the written permission of the copyright holder.

Judging Forms
Students competing in a category requiring judging forms must submit three completed judging forms to the
judges. There are no judging forms for Bible Memory, Spelling, and Academic Testing categories. In categories
where second rounds are called (speech, preaching, Bible teaching), AACS will provide judging forms for the
second round. The competitor must provide judging forms for the first round. Students must use the AACS
judging forms from the current National Competition Manual. Use of incorrect judging forms will be penalized.

Bible Usage
The AACS will use the KJV Bible for judging Bible competition categories. The King James Version will be the
only authorized translation used in any competition category. (See AACS website for current publication and
ordering information.) This specific publication is the official version and must be used for judging. Other
printings may have slight variations in words or punctuation. Answers must be correct according to the AACS
selected publication.

Recording Policy
No flash photography can be used during competition. Recording is absolutely prohibited except for the
recording of a single entry by representatives of the participant’s school for personal use. The recording of all
or portions of the performance of more than one entry in an event is prohibited. In any case, the head judge in
a competition may prohibit recording. No recording made by anyone other than competition officials may be
considered for adjudication purposes.

Competition Annual Update

This manual will govern competition until a new manual is adopted by AACS. It is intended that the current
manual will cover competition for five years (spring of 2021 through spring of 2025), at which time a new
manual will be adopted. However, in order to correct errors that may be discovered within the manual, the
online manual will be corrected, and the Competition Annual Update will be posted on the AACS website and
any changes noted therein will govern the competition. School leadership should review the annual update
and FAQs and inform students, teachers, coaches, parents, and others of any changes.

Copyright
The AACS National Competition Manual is copyrighted material. Please adhere to the following.

1. The manual that you purchased is for use by your school only. Other schools must purchase their own
manuals.
2. Each school can print the manual or portions of the manual as needed. For example, you may print the
rules for a particular area or the judging forms for your school use as needed.
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 National Competition Manual – General Information

3. Do not forward the link or document to any other school or anyone other than school personnel.
4. Do not post the link on any website.

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 8

2020 National Competition Manual

Area One: Bible

 National Competition Manual – Area One: Bible

Area One: Bible

Category 1: Bible Quizzing Category 4: Expository Preaching
Category 2: Bible Memory Category 5: Evangelistic Preaching
Category 3: Bible Teaching Category 6: Topical Preaching

Bible General Rules

The AACS will use the KJV Bible for judging Bible competition categories. The King James Version will be the
only authorized translation used in any competition category. (See AACS website for current publication and
ordering information.) This specific publication is the official version and must be used for judging. Other
printings may have slight variations in words or punctuation. Answers must be correct according to the AACS
selected publication.

Rules by Category
Category 1: Bible Quizzing
1. Bible Quizzing is a jump-quizzing competition measuring Bible knowledge and speed of recall. Three
opposing teams are challenged by an oral question, and any team member who responds first is given
opportunity to answer within a time limit. Points are scored for correct answers and penalties assessed for
incorrect and incomplete answers. Both individual and team scores are kept. The highest scoring team is
declared winner at the game’s end. Competition proceeds as in a double-elimination tournament.
2. Schedule—Refer to the AACS website for competition schedule (arrival time, required meetings,
competition pairings).

Quiz Panel
The quiz panel will officiate each quiz.
1. The quiz panel may consist of the quizmaster, scorer, timekeeper, and one or two judges.
2. The quiz panel will be appointed and instructed by the quizmaster.
3. All decisions by the quiz panel will be final.

Team Membership
1. For each game, a team will be composed of two to five members and may include up to two substitutes
from the same school.
2. A team may change team members after the conclusion of a given game in the tournament.

Team Coaches
Each team’s coach will be present during competition.
1. Although the number of coaches for pre-contest preparation will be at the school’s discretion, each team
will have no more than two official coaches present during competition.
2. The coach will be responsible for the behavior of the team at all times.
3. The coach’s behavior will be considered as team behavior and, as such, will meet the Dress and Conduct
Code outlined in the General Rules.

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 National Competition Manual – Area One: Bible

4. The coach may lodge a protest solely with the National Competition quizmaster after a game has been
completed. The judges will not entertain protests at any time. Protests presented courteously to the
National Competition quizmaster will be received courteously.

Study Cycle
1. The AACS will use the KJV Bible for judging Bible competition categories. The King James Version will be
the only authorized translation used in any competition category. (See AACS website for current
publication and ordering information.)
2. The cycle for the next nine years is as follows:
2020–2021 John
2021–2022 Acts
2022–2023 1 & 2 Corinthians
2023–2024 Matthew
2024–2025 Hebrews, 1 & 2 Peter
2025–2026 Romans, James
2026–2027 Mark, 1, 2, & 3 John, Jude
2027–2028 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus
2028–2029 Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Philemon

Pregame Procedure and Seating Plan

1. The quizmaster will face the opposing teams. The quizmaster will determine the arrangement of the
competition room.
2. Three opposing teams will be seated so as to see and hear clearly the quizmaster and to see the
scoreboard.
3. Each school’s starting quizzers will sit as a team, numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
4. Each team will choose a captain and co-captain prior to quizzing.
5. Each team will identify the captain to the quizmaster prior to quizzing.
6. The official mode of response will be a bell-and-light jump system.
7. The quizmaster will review the rules and game procedure and answer any related questions preceding
play.
8. The quizmaster and event coordinator can determine a reasonable accommodation to allow participation
by a quizzer who is physically unable to stand.

Game Procedure
1. A game will consist of 20 correctly answered regular or toss-up questions plus whatever free and tie-
breaking questions become necessary, regardless of time.
2. Regular Questions: A game will commence with the reading of a regular question by the quizmaster to the
three teams. The regular question format will be as follows: “Question number one: question.”
a. If no quizzer responds within ten seconds after the reading of a question, the question will be tossed
out and another question read to continue play.
(1) Tossed out questions will not constitute any of the 20 regular questions.
(2) Team members may confer before any quizzer is recognized.

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 National Competition Manual – Area One: Bible

(3) Quizzers may begin to confer while the question is being asked, as long as they do not prevent
other teams from hearing the question. Quizzers may not confer once the quizzer is recognized.
b. During or after the reading of a regular question, the first quizzer whose light comes on will be
recognized by the quizmaster as the team spokesman for that question and will be addressed by state
and number, for instance, “Tennessee, Number Three.”
c. Interrupted Questions: The reading of regular, toss-up, or tie-breaker questions may be interrupted by
a quizzer, but he must then answer the question without hearing it read in its entirety.
d. The clock will start upon the quizmaster’s verbal recognition of the quizzer.
(1) Thirty seconds will be allowed in which to answer any question in its entirety.
(2) The quizzer will be allowed a maximum of ten seconds before beginning his answer, but the clock
will continue to run marking the thirty-second count. An answer will be considered as started when
a quizzer gives new information which is part of the unread portion of the question or part of the
answer.
(3) In a year when more than one book of the Bible is included in the study material, if the quizmaster
has not said the name of the book, the quizzer may say the name of the book within the ten
seconds in order to earn the full thirty seconds. However, if the new information supplied includes
the name of the book, the quizzer must correctly state the name of the precise book in order to be
ruled correct. (Example: First Corinthians, instead of just Corinthians.)
(4) In a year when only one book of the Bible is included in the study material, if the quizmaster has
not said the chapter of the book, the quizzer may say the chapter number within the ten seconds in
order to earn the full thirty seconds. However, if the new information includes the chapter number,
the quizzer must correctly state the precise chapter number in order to be ruled correct.
(5) If the quizzer fails to begin his answer within the ten seconds, it will constitute an error.
e. Upon giving the correct answer to a regular question, 20 points will be scored for the answering team,
and another regular question will be read to continue the cycle.
(1) Each individual quizzer’s points will be tallied on a score sheet.
(2) During the competition, any quizzer having correctly answered six 20-point questions (quizzing out)
will leave the game.
(a) He may be replaced by an eligible substitute.
(b) He will not return to the current game.
(c) Should the team captain quiz out, the co-captain will assume the role of challenger.
(d) Should an entire team vacate whether through quizzing out or erroring out, the format will
change to two-team rules; in other words, the toss-up question will still be worth 20 points, and
no error will be assessed for the attempt on the toss-up.
f. At the quizmaster’s call of time, or when the quizzer is seated again, any incorrect or incomplete
answer will constitute an error.
(1) Each individual quizzer’s errors will be tallied on a score sheet.
(2) During the competition, any quizzer having made six errors (erroring out) on regular or toss-up
questions will leave the game.
(a) He may be replaced by an eligible substitute.
(b) He will not return to the current game.
(c) Should the team captain error out, the co-captain will assume the role of challenger.
(3) Beginning with the fourth team error, ten penalty points for each error will be deducted from the
team’s score.

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 National Competition Manual – Area One: Bible

(a) The first three errors will not affect a team’s score.
(b) On the sixteenth and all subsequent questions, ten penalty points for each error will be
deducted whether or not the team has previously committed three errors.
3. Toss-Up Questions: After penalty points have been assessed for the incorrect answer to a regular
question, the regular question shall be reread and will constitute a toss-up question.
a. Only the remaining two teams may vie for a response to the toss-up question.
b. If no quizzer responds within ten seconds, the question will be tossed out.
c. A correct answer to a toss-up question will score 20 points for the answering quizzer’s team.
d. Beginning with the fourth team error, an incorrect answer to a toss-up question will deduct ten points
from the team’s score.
e. On the sixteenth and all subsequent questions, ten penalty points for each error will be deducted
whether or not the team has previously committed three errors.
f. When competition consists of only two teams, toss-up questions will carry a value of 20 points and
incorrect answers will not be penalized.
g. The toss-up format will be as follows: “Toss-up Question [to the remaining teams]: question.” Quizzers
may jump after the second question. If the Kirkman Box is used, quizzers may jump as soon as the
amber light comes on. [Instruction for quizmasters: The quizmaster will do his best to time the reset so
that the amber light will come on at the same time as the second word question. In any case, the
standard is when the amber light comes on.]
4. Free Questions: Upon error on a toss-up question, the remaining third team will be given a free question,
which will be a new, previously unread question.
a. The first quizzer to rise may attempt to answer a free question without fear of penalty upon error,
termed attempt.
b. No other attempts to answer will be permissible.
c. A correct answer to a free question scores ten points for a team.
d. No penalty points will be assessed at any time for free questions which are incorrectly or incompletely
answered, or unanswered in any manner; hence, the term free.
5. Tie Score: In the event of a tie score after the twentieth question, single regular questions will be asked
until the tie is broken, termed tie-breaker questions.
a. Individual scores and errors will continue to be tallied.
b. If the twentieth question is answered in error, the entire round will continue to completion, toss-up
and, if necessary, free question included. Thereafter, the single tie-breaker questions will continue
until a winner is declared, as in a sudden-death play-off. However, the quiz must end with a correctly
answered 20-point regular or toss-up question.
c. If, after the twentieth question, one team has the highest score and the remaining two teams are tied
in score, then the winner will drop from the contest; and the game will continue until a tie-breaking
question produces a middle winner. The format will change to two-team rules; in other words, the
toss-up question will still be worth 20 points, and no error will be assessed for the attempt on the toss-
up. A tie-breaking question, regular or toss-up, must be answered correctly in order to end the quiz. (A
tie cannot be settled by the points lost for an incorrect answer.)
d. The same process described above (5.c) will be followed if two teams are tied for first place honors at
the end of a game. Each game will have a high winner, a middle winner, and one loser (see
Determination of Winner).

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e. If, after the twentieth question, all three teams are tied, the quiz will continue one question at a time
until there is a high winner, a middle winner, and one loser. An evaluation of how one or more of the
teams will finish the quiz will be made only after a correctly answered 20-point question. Each team
getting an error on a regular or toss-up question will continue to incur a 10-point deduction.
(1) If no team earns 20 points for an answer, then all three teams will continue to the next question,
regardless of the score.
(a) Example 1: All three teams have 120 points after 20 questions. On the first extra question,
Team A misses, Team B misses, and Team C misses the free question. The quiz continues, even
though the score is 110-110-120.
(b) Example 2: All three teams have 120 points after 20 questions. On the first extra question,
Team A misses, Team B misses, and Team C correctly answers the free question. The quiz
continues, even though the score is 110-110-130.
(2) If a team earns 20 points for an answer, then at the end of the question an evaluation will be made
regarding how the teams have finished in the quiz.
(a) Example 3: All three teams have 120 points after 20 questions. Team A jumps first and gets 20
points. The score is 140-120-120, and Team A is the high winner. Team A drops from the quiz,
and a two-team tie breaker continues according to rule 5.c. above.
(b) Example 4: All three teams have 120 points after 20 questions. Team A jumps first and misses;
then Team B jumps and gets 20 points. The score is 110-140-120, and the quiz is over with
Team B the high winner, Team C the middle winner, and Team A the loser.
(c) Example 5: The score is 110-110-130 after Example 2 above. Team A jumps and gets 20 points.
The score is 130-110-130, and Team B is the loser. Team B drops from the quiz, and a two-team
tie breaker continues according to rule 5.d. above.
6. Time-Outs: A team may call two time-outs during a game. A coach may talk with quizzers only during a
time-out. This does not mean a coach would be forbidden a spontaneous congratulations or
encouragement.
a. Time-outs will be allowed after the answer of one question and before the reading of the next.
b. Time-outs will be no longer than one minute.
c. A time-out will not be necessary for substitutions which become necessary at the quizzing out or
erroring out of quizzers.
(1) Voluntary substitutions require the calling of time-outs.
(2) Other teams may substitute quizzers during one team’s time-out.
(3) A time-out may be called for a team conference.
d. A challenge will take precedence over a time-out.
e. The procedure for calling a time-out will be as follows: The quizzer or coach should stand and say, “Mr.
Quizmaster, we would like a time-out.”
f. If tie-breaker questions are required, each team will be allowed one time-out during the tie breaker,
regardless of the number of previous time-outs taken.
7. Fouls: The following actions will constitute fouls.
a. Talking or conferring by any quizzers between the time the quizzer has been recognized and the time
points are awarded or penalties assessed.
b. Any part of the hands or feet touching the chair during the reading of a question.
c. Failure of a quizzer to come to full stature.
d. A team’s display of an overly antagonistic attitude toward officials and rulings.

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e.A disagreeable attitude evidenced by indiscreet challenging.

f.Any behavior not conducive to the Christian spirit.
g.For every three team fouls, ten points will be deducted from that team’s scores.
h.If a quizzer begins to answer before he is recognized, a foul will be given; but he will be allowed points
for a correct answer.
i. If the wrong quizzer answers the question, the right quizzer will be then permitted to answer the
question. However, if both quizzers are from the same team, an error will be assessed and the
question repeated as a toss-up question.
j. If the amber light fails to come on and the timer fails to engage when the quizzer jumps, then the
quizzer has jumped too soon, and a foul will be assessed. The quizmaster will attempt to time the reset
with the second word question (i.e., “Question number 7, question”). [Instructions for quizmaster: The
quizmaster will do his best to time the reset so that the amber light will come on at the same time as
the second word question. In any case, the standard is that quizzers may jump as soon as the amber
light comes on.]
k. If after the amber light comes on and the timer begins to count down, the quizzer begins to stand but
then is seated again without answering, this is an error, not a foul. The quizmaster gives the error to
the quizzer and moves to the toss-up question
l. If a quizzer restrains or assists another quizzer physically (holds him in his seat or pushes him to his
feet).
m. If a quizzer or team causes a delay in the game.
8. Challenges: The following rules will govern all challenges.
a. An answer to any question (regular, toss-up, free, or tie-breaker) will be considered open to challenge
under the following circumstances.
(1) It is believed that incorrect information was considered correct.
(2) In a finish-the-verse question, the first five words of the verse are identical to those of another
verse in the Scripture included in the competition.
(3) It is believed that correct information was considered incorrect.
b. Each challenge must be submitted to the quizmaster at the appropriate time.
(1) If the original question is ruled correct, either of the other teams may immediately challenge the
ruling, prior to the asking of the next question.
(2) If the original question is ruled incorrect, a challenge by any of the teams may be made only after
the completion of the toss-up question and before the asking of the free question.
(3) A challenge to the ruling on a toss-up question, whether correct or incorrect, must be made
immediately, prior to the asking of the free question.
(4) A challenge to the ruling on a free question, whether correct or incorrect, must be made
immediately, prior to the asking of the next question.
c. The results of the quizmaster’s ruling on the challenge will be as follows.
(1) If the challenge to a correct ruling on the original question is sustained, the answering team is
assessed an error, and a new question replaces the challenged one to be used as the toss-up
question. If the challenge is overruled, the answering team retains the 20 points, and the quiz
continues to the next question.
(2) If the challenge to an incorrect ruling on the original question is sustained, the first team to answer
is awarded 20 points, the result of the toss-up is discarded, and the quiz continues to the next
question. If the challenge is overruled, the result of the toss-up question stands.

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(3) If the challenge to a correct ruling on a toss-up question is sustained, the answering team is
assessed an error, and the quiz continues to the free question. If the challenge is overruled, the
answering team retains the 20 points, and the quiz continues to the next question. If the challenge
to an incorrect ruling on a toss-up question is sustained, the answering team is awarded 20 points,
and the quiz continues to the next question. If the challenge is overruled, the result of the toss-up
question stands, and the quiz continues to the free question.
(4) If the challenge to a correct ruling on a free question is sustained, the score reverts to what it was
before the question was asked, and the quiz continues to the next question. If the challenge is
overruled, the answering team retains the 10 points, and the quiz continues to the next question. If
the challenge to an incorrect ruling on a free question is sustained, the answering team is awarded
10 points, and the quiz continues to the next question. If the challenge is overruled, the result of
the free question stands, and the quiz continues to the next question.
d. Only a team captain may challenge by standing and saying, “Mr. Quizmaster, I would like to challenge.”
The captain may yield the floor to a team member to voice the challenge.
e. The quizmaster, with or without counsel of the quiz panel, will have sole authority to accept or reject
the challenge.
f. No penalty shall be assessed against any team that properly submits a challenge.

Questions and Answers

No unanswered (tossed-out) questions will be asked again until all questions have been asked once during the
entire competition. All decisions on the correctness of answers will be the sole responsibility of the quizmaster
who may seek counsel of the quiz panel at his own discretion.

1. Description of Acceptable Question and Answer Forms

a. Interrogative Question form: a question constructed by the use of a direct word(s) from Scripture
together with an interrogative and answerable by a paraphrased word or phrase.
(1) Interrogatives will be limited to selections from this list: who, whom, what, why, where, when,
which, how.
(2) Interrogative questions drawn from a Scriptural context without the inclusion of direct word(s) will
not be permissible.
(3) Interrogative questions will include the book and chapter citation from which the question is
drawn, but not the verse.
(4) Example:
Q: “Question number 2, question: By whom was Jesus led into the wilderness in Matthew 4?
A: “the spirit.”
b. Finish-the-Verse Question form: a verse completion question answerable by a direct Scriptural
quotation without any book, chapter, or verse reference citation.
(1) Finish-the-verse questions will begin with the statement “Finish this one verse” or “Finish these
two verses” or “Finish these three verses.” Verses must be quoted verbatim.
(2) No quizzer will be expected to cite references in finish-the-verse(s) questions.
(3) Example:
Q: “Finish this one verse. Question number 1, question: He came unto his own . . .”
A: “and his own received him not.”

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(4) A quizzer may repeat all or some of the words of the verse that the quizmaster has already spoken,
but the quizzer must proceed beyond those words within the first ten seconds.
(5) Having begun to finish the verse, a quizzer may stop and retrace some or all of the words that he
has already spoken, provided that he makes no change in the retracing.
c. Reference Question form: a question citing a chapter and verse reference with or without the use of a
key word(s) answerable by information found in that specific verse reference.
(1) Reference questions will begin with the phrase “This is a reference question. Question number 8,
question:”
(2) Reference questions will include the phrase, “According to . . .” followed by a chapter and verse
reference. This phrase may be located at the beginning or at the end of the question.
(3) The standard of what constitutes a correct answer to a reference question is more precise than
that for an interrogative question because the correct answer must come from that specific verse.
While a paraphrased answer may occasionally be ruled correct, precise language from the specific
verse is preferable.
(4) Examples:
Q: “This is a reference question. Question number 4, question: Who hath no where to lay His head
according to Matthew 8:20?”
A: “the Son of man”—Correct.
A: “Jesus” or “the Son of God”—Incorrect. These paraphrased answers would be acceptable for an
interrogative question, but not for a reference question.
Q: “This is a reference question. Question number 6, question: According to 1 John 4:16, who
dwelleth in God?”
A: “He that dwelleth in love” or “A person who dwells in love”—Correct.
A: “Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God”—Incorrect. While this answer is true, it is
taken from a different verse.
d. Quotation Question form: a total recall question which states an exact Biblical reference and is
answerable by a direct verbatim quotation.
(1) Quotation questions will begin with the phrase, “Quote this one verse. . .” or “Quote these two
verses. . .” or “Quote these three verses. . .” and follow with a book-chapter-verse reference.
(2) Quotation questions will be answerable by the verbatim quotation of the verse(s) cited. The quizzer
may, but will not be required to, cite the reference; however, he must begin the quotation of the
verse within the ten-second time frame.
(3) Having begun to quote the verse, a quizzer may stop and retrace some or all of the words that he
has already spoken, provided that he makes no change in the retracing.
(4) Example:
Q: “Quote this verse. Question number 3, question: John 1:4.”
A: “John 1:4, ‘In Him was life; and the life was the light of men.’”
2. Determination of Correctness of Answers
a. An answer will be considered correct only if it will have been correctly and completely stated within
the thirty-second time limit.
(1) Answers to quotations and finish-the-verse questions must be verbatim and complete within the
time limit.
(2) When answering reference and interrogative questions, if a quizzer is interrupted by the call for
time while giving additional information beyond what the judges consider necessary for

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correctness and completeness; so long as the information given before the call for time was correct
and complete, the answer will be considered correct.
b. An answer will be considered correct if a proper name is mispronounced.
(1) The quizmaster may request clarification by spelling.
(2) An incorrect spelling of the proper name will constitute an error.
c. Only the first answer from a quizzer will be considered. Starting over to make a correction will
constitute an error.
d. Should a quizzer interrupt the reading of a question, he will not be required to complete the question
before answering, but an incorrect answer will constitute an error.
e. When a quizzer has finished his answer he should be seated.
3. Errors: The following actions will constitute an error.
a. If the quizzer fails to begin his answer within ten seconds.
b. If at the timekeeper’s call of time (30 seconds), any incorrect or incomplete answer has been given.
c. If the wrong quizzer answers the question, the right quizzer will then be permitted to answer the
question, and the wrong quizzer will be assessed a foul. However, if both quizzers are from the same
team, an error will be assessed. A new regular question will be asked if the question was a regular
question or a free question, or the free question will be asked if the question was a toss-up.
d. If an answer would require clarification for understanding.
e. Quoting an entire verse word for word in response to an interrogative or reference question.
f. An answer to a finish-the-verse or quotation question in which there is any deviation from verbatim
quotation of Scripture, i.e. any addition, omission, reversal, or change of words.
g. If the quizmaster calls for spelling of a proper name and it is incorrectly spelled.
h. Should a quizzer interrupt the reading of a question, he will not be required to complete the question
before answering, but an incorrect answer will constitute an error.
i. Only the first answer from a quizzer will be considered. Starting over to make a correction will
constitute an error.
j. Any incorrect information in an answer. This includes giving information that is not a part of the
question or the answer.
k. Incorrectly or incompletely identifying the name of the book or the chapter number, even if the answer
is correct.
l. Any incomplete answer at the call for time.
m. If, after the amber light comes on and the timer begins to count down, the quizzer begins to stand but
then is seated again without answering, this is an error, not a foul. The quizmaster gives the error to
the quizzer and moves to the toss-up question or to the free question.

Determination of Winner
1. The team with the highest score at the end of the twentieth question or sudden death tie breaker will be
declared the high winner. The team with the second highest score will be declared the middle winner. The
last place team will be considered the loser of the game. In other words, each game with three teams will
have two winners and one loser.
2. The advantage of being a high winner is the draw of opponents as the contest eliminates quiz teams.
3. The quizmaster will determine the teams competing in each game. Determination of Winner rule 1 will
help the quizmaster determine the selection of teams to participate in each game.

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4. Competition will proceed as in a double elimination tournament so that each team must be defeated twice
before being eliminated.

Category 2: Bible Memory

Competition will be conducted in the traditional spelling bee fashion. Bible Memory verses are located in the
Appendix. The six year cycle by school year is stated below:
2020–2021 The Wisdom of God
2021–2022 Soul-winning
2022–2023 The Triune God
2023–2024 Sin and Salvation
2024–2025 Prayer
2025–2026 God’s Promises

1. Students are not required to provide judging forms for Bible Memory.
2. All students will stand, forming a single line facing the Bible Memory master. The master will question
from left to right.
3. All questions will be taken from the official memory material.
4. The master may conduct only two styles of quizzing as follows:
Style 1: Master cites reference; student recites verse. Master may continue this style for as many
rounds as he chooses.
Style 2: Master refers to application of verse; student cites both reference and verse. Master may
continue this style for as many rounds as he chooses.
5. Each student will be given a question different from that given the preceding student.
6. The student will not begin speaking until the master’s questioning is completed.
7. A student will be permitted one error before his elimination. Upon commission of his second error, the
student will be eliminated by the master with confirmation from the judges.
8. The AACS will use the KJV Bible for judging Bible competition categories. The King James Version will be
the only authorized translation used in any competition category. (See AACS website for current
publication and ordering information.)
9. The following will constitute errors:
a. Any incorrect reference citation.
b. Any deviation from the verbatim quotation of Scripture, i.e., any addition, omission, reversal, or
change of words.
c. Incomplete answers at the call of time.
d. Only one error per question may be scored against a student.
e. Pronunciation mistakes will not constitute errors.
f. Having begun either to cite a reference, quote a verse, or both, a student may stop and begin again,
repeating exactly as begun; but in the repeating, there can be no change of reference or quotation. If
such change occurs, the student will be declared in error.
10. The student will have 35 seconds to quote a verse or verse and reference.
a. Timing will begin at the master’s signal, “Time!”
b. If the student wishes a repetition of the question, to prevent the starting of the clock, he will signify his
request by saying, “Please repeat the question.”
c. Only one repeat request per question will be permissible.

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11. Having already correctly cited a passage, a student will not be asked to recite the same passage in a later
round.
12. The correct citation or quotation will not be given after a response has been deemed in error. However, a
contestant who has been ruled in error may immediately request that the master give a brief summary of
the nature of the error.
13. A student may state a challenge for one of the following reasons:
a. The student believes that the master ruled an incorrect response of another student to be correct.
b. The student believes that the master ruled a correct answer to be incorrect.
c. The student believes that the master has not correctly enforced a rule.
The challenge must be stated immediately following the response to the question being challenged. The
student will initiate the challenge by saying, “Excuse me, Mr. Quizmaster, I would like to challenge.” The
master will have sole authority to accept or reject the challenge.
14. After a student’s elimination, the proceedings continue as normal. The next question from the master’s
official list will then be given to the next student.
15. When the students have been reduced to two, provided that each student has committed one error or
that each student is errorless, the elimination procedure changes, but not before the completion of the
current round. At that point, when one student commits an error, the opponent will be given an
opportunity to correctly answer that same question. If the opponent will answer correctly that same
question, plus answer the next question correctly on the master’s list, then he will be declared champion.
16. If one of the last two students commits an error and the other student, after correcting the error, commits
an error on the extra question, then the first student may attempt to answer the extra question. If the first
student then succeeds in correcting that error and then correctly answers another extra question, he will
be declared champion.
17. If both of the finalists commit errors on the same question, both will continue in competition. The
question will be answered correctly by the master, and the competition will continue with the next
question directed to the one who erred first on the prior question. The competition will resume under rule
14 and 15.
18. Any protest relating to the reference or quotation of a verse will be referred to the judges immediately.
Only a student participant may lodge a protest. The deadline for lodging a protest will be before the
affected student would have received his next question had he not been eliminated. No protest will be
entertained after a contested question has been given to another student. When only two students
remain, a protest must be made immediately, i.e., before the second student has begun to answer the
question, or, if both have missed the same question, before the correct answer is given to the audience.
19. When oral quizzing has continued for at least 20 rounds or for at least 1.5 hours without producing a
winner (whichever comes first), the master will institute written quizzing.
a. If, when written quizzing is instituted, some competitors have one error while others are errorless, the
errorless competitors shall be allowed three unpenalized errors in written quizzing.
b. In written quizzing, the competitors will be given ten outline statements. The competitor must write
the reference(s) and verse(s) that correspond with each outline statement.
c. A thirty-minute time limit will be established for written quizzing. If a competitor finishes his writing
before the time limit expires, he may turn in his work and the time elapsed will be recorded on his
paper. All work will be collected when the time limit has expired.

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d. In written quizzing, errors will be weighted numerically. Any word error (incorrect word, omitted word,
or added word) will be given a weight of 3. Any error in spelling, punctuation, or capitalization will be
given a weight of 1.
e. If a tie remains after the writing is scored, the times for competitors (19.c.) will be used to break the
tie. In the case of a continuing tie, the entire writing process will be repeated for the tied competitors.
20. The master and judges have complete authority and control. Their decisions will be final.

Category 3: Bible Teaching

Competition in this category shall provide opportunity for developing organizational and teaching talent for
God’s use.

1. Students may be either young men or young women.

2. Each student will prepare and teach a Bible lesson 10–15 minutes in length. (See General Information:
Time Limitation and Disqualification.) A missionary biography or contemporary story is not sufficient. The
lesson should be based on a Bible character, a Bible doctrine, or a concept taught in Scripture.
3. Each lesson will be prepared for a class of junior-age children, ages 9–12.
4. Each lesson may include some type of audio and/or visual aid. These aids do not have to be original.
5. Lessons may be original or from published or unpublished sources.
6. Each student will submit three copies of the typewritten lesson outline to the judges at the time of
presentation. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.
7. The lesson outline will include the following:
a. Outline of lesson content
b. Objectives of lesson
c. Specific principle(s) to be taught
d. Scripture references
e. Materials required
f. Brief summary of lesson
g. Bibliography of references
8. Selected students will be chosen from the first session to participate in the final competition session.
9. In categories where second rounds are called (speech, preaching, Bible teaching), AACS will provide
judging forms for the second round. The competitor must provide judging forms for the first round.
Students must use the AACS judging forms from the current National Competition Manual.
10. Recording is absolutely prohibited except for the recording of a single entry by representatives of the
participant’s school for personal use. The recording of all or portions of the performance of more than one
entry in an event is prohibited. In any case, the head judge in a competition may prohibit recording. No
recording made by anyone other than competition officials may be considered for adjudication purposes.

Bible Preaching General Rules

1. Students will be restricted to young men.
2. Each student will prepare a sermon 10–15 minutes in length. (See General Information: Time Limitation
and Disqualification.)
3. Each student will present three copies of his typewritten sermon outline to the judges at the time of
delivery.

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4. The outline guidelines are as follows:

a. It should be done in a standard subordination format.
b. It should be done in sentence form, with transition sentences.
c. It should include a written introduction and conclusion.
d. It should include a title, theme, and Scripture references.
5. The King James Version will be the only authorized translation.
6. Selected students will be chosen from the first session to participate in the final competition session.
7. In categories where second rounds are called (speech, preaching, Bible teaching), AACS will provide
judging forms for the second round. The competitor must provide judging forms for the first round.
Students must use the AACS judging forms from the current National Competition Manual.
8. Recording is absolutely prohibited except for the recording of a single entry by representatives of the
participant’s school for personal use. The recording of all or portions of the performance of more than one
entry in an event is prohibited. In any case, the head judge in a competition may prohibit recording. No
recording made by anyone other than competition officials may be considered for adjudication purposes.

Rules by Category
Category 4: Expository Preaching
An expository sermon is one in which a portion of Scripture is interpreted in relation to one theme or central
idea. The bulk of the material for the sermon is drawn directly from the passage, and the outline consists of a
series of progressive ideas centered on that one main idea.

Category 5: Evangelistic Preaching

An evangelistic sermon may be either expository, topical, or textual, but one which is primarily directed
toward the lost, with the goal of drawing them to Christ. Since an evangelistic sermon may be textual in
nature, it is good to have a definition of textual preaching also. A textual sermon is one in which the main
divisions are derived from a text consisting of a brief portion of Scripture. Each of these divisions is then used
as a line of suggestion, and the text provides the theme of the sermon.

Category 6: Topical Preaching

A topical sermon is one in which the main divisions are derived from the topic, independently of a text.
Scripture passages should be used to support the topic.

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2020 National Competition Manual

Area Two: Music

 National Competition Manual – Area Two: Music

Area Two: Music

Individual Events Group Events
Category 1: Female Vocal Solo Category 9: Small Vocal Ensemble
Category 2: Male Vocal Solo Category 10: Large Vocal Ensemble
Category 3: Brass Solo Category 11: Choral Group
Category 4: Woodwind Solo Category 12: Small Instrumental Ensemble
Category 5: String Solo Category 13: Large Instrumental Ensemble
Category 6: Percussion Solo Category 14: Orchestra/Band
Category 7: Sacred Piano Solo Category 15: Handbell/Handchime Ensemble
Category 8: Classical Piano Solo Category 16: Handbell/Handchime Choir
Category 17: Sacred Piano Duet
Category 18: Classical Piano Duet

Music General Rules

1. Vocal and instrumental selections will be from the following types of music: sacred, spirituals, patriotic,
folk, semi-classical, or classical.
a. The term classical will not be limited to denote music from that period of history, but will apply to
selections of a classical nature as opposed to those of popular music.
b. Piano selections must be sacred or classical according to the rules of the category.
c. Folk music is the body of literature that identifies with a culture or a country in the form of ballads,
religious songs, work songs, cowboy songs, patriotic and political songs, and love songs. Many such folk
songs have been taught by one generation to another generation and may not bear any composer
identification. However, no protest songs, songs of any subversive cultural movement, or modern pop-
related folk songs of any type are permissible.
d. Semi-classical music is that which is like classical music in form, style, and quality, but is generally less
complex in nature and has a more immediate appeal. Discretion should be used in selecting semi-
classical music for competition. It must meet high standards of quality in both words and music.
2. Medleys will be acceptable.
3. No rock style, gospel country, jazz, or music in like vein will be permitted. A “night club” sound, or
“contemporary” sound is not acceptable. Participants are to avoid contemporary movie themes, though
the music itself may be acceptable, and are not to use songs produced and/or popularized by current pop
or rock stars even though the song itself may be acceptable.
4. Competition officials shall have full authority for making any determination in this regard. Music
determined to be inappropriate for this competition will be penalized or disqualified.
5. No student or group will perform the same selection in two consecutive years. In addition, the same
selection is not to be used by multiple groups from the same school in the same year.
6. Refer to specific rules for each category for questions about entrants’ qualifications.
7. No choreography, planned or unnecessary bodily movement (including hand clapping, foot stomping, deaf
signing, finger snapping, etc.) may be used even if scored by the composer or arranger. For soloists,
gestures that are a natural expression of the piece will not be penalized.

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 National Competition Manual – Area Two: Music

8. Memory is required of piano solos, vocal solos, and vocal groups. Memory is not required of instrumental
solos (except piano) or instrumental groups. Failure to memorize when required will result in
disqualification.
9. Only live piano accompaniment will be permitted for all music categories which need accompaniment.
10. Each student or group may provide an accompanist who will not be considered as part of the group in size
determination or grade-level requirements.
11. No competitors are permitted to use page turners; accompanists may use a page turner.
12. No electronically amplified musical instruments will be permissible.
13. All sound equipment will be provided and supervised by the host school and its designated aides.
14. Refer to the AACS website for instruments provided by the host school for these categories: Percussion
Solo, Large Instrumental Ensemble, and Orchestra/Band.
15. Contestants will need originals of each selection of music performed for judges to reference. If the
contestant(s) or accompanist will be using music for any performance, those will also need to be originals.
Photocopies are not permitted.

Category Number of Originals for Judges to Reference

Individual Events (Categories 1–8) one
Group Events (Categories 9–11, 14–16) three
(Categories 12–13, Instrumental Ensembles) one
(Categories 17–18, Piano Duets) two

Photocopies are permitted only with the publisher’s permission. Permission from the publisher must be
attached to each copy that is supplied to the judges. Use of photocopies without publisher permission
will be penalized. Photocopies of music may be used only under the following circumstances.
a. The music is in the public domain—either it is not copyrighted or the copyright date is 1922 or earlier.
b. The copyrighted music has been ordered but not yet received, and the contestant presents a note from
a music store stating that he has ordered and paid for the music.
c. The contestant presents a letter from the publisher or the copyright holder giving permission to copy
the music. Permission from the publisher must be attached to each copy that is supplied to the
judges. Publishers often grant permission for adjudication. Band directors should note that most
publishers sell an additional score for a significantly reduced price.
d. The contestant or accompanist may reproduce single pages to facilitate page turns. The original
published score must also be present on the music stand and/or music rack.
e. An emergency copy may be made to replace previously purchased copies which for any reason are not
available for an imminent performance. The purchased replacement copies must be substituted at the
earliest opportunity.
f. If the contestant is using digital sheet music or something similar printed from an online download,
he/she will need to provide proof of purchase or a “permission to use letter” with the music.
Permission from the publisher must be attached to each copy that is supplied to the judges.
g. Please note further the following copyright considerations.
(1) Copyrighted music may be edited or simplified provided that the fundamental character—
melodically and harmonically—of the work is not distorted. Minor deviations from the printed
music must be clearly marked on the music given to judges.

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 National Competition Manual – Area Two: Music

(2) Copyrighted lyrics may not be changed without permission of the copyright holder.
(3) Personal arrangements of a copyrighted work must have the written permission of the copyright
holder.
16. The contestant must number at least every fifth (5th) measure on the music given to judges. Numbers
must be very clear and legible. Numbers may be written in pencil. Failure to clearly number at least every
5th measure will result in an automatic penalty of 3 points per selection. Judges are instructed not to mark
on music.
17. Personal arrangements and deviations from printed music should be clearly marked on the judges’ music
or disqualification will result after the performance is finished.
18. Warm-up rooms will be available throughout the day.
19. Instrumentalists may tune their instruments with the piano before performing.
20. Either the soloist, one member of a duet or small ensemble, or the director of a large ensemble or group
shall announce the name of the participant/group, the school, the title, and composer/arranger of the
selection. Timing will then begin.
21. Students will be penalized for going over time or under time in any category of competition where time
limits are established. When a student violates his time limit by more than 1 minute, the student will be
disqualified. However, if he is over time or under time, but not by 1 minute, points or a fraction of a point
will be deducted which will prevent an otherwise first-place winner from placing first, a second-place
winter from placing second, or a third-place winner from placing third.
22. The student or director will be responsible for securing furnished music from the judges following the
performance.
23. Recording is absolutely prohibited except for the recording of a single entry by representatives of the
participant’s school for personal use. The recording of all or portions of the performance of more than one
entry in an event is prohibited. In any case, the head judge in a competition may prohibit recording. No
recording made by anyone other than competition officials may be considered for adjudication purposes.

Rules by Category (Individual Competition)

Category 1: Female Vocal Solo Category 5: String Solo
Category 2: Male Vocal Solo Category 6: Percussion Solo
Category 3: Brass Solo Category 7: Sacred Piano Solo
Category 4: Woodwind Solo Category 8: Classical Piano Solo

Category 1, 2: Female Vocal Solo, Male Vocal Solo

1. All vocal solos will be memorized. Failure to memorize will result in disqualification.
2. Vocal soloists will perform two selections or medleys within a 10-minute time limit. At least one selection
must be sacred. At least one selection must be in English. The intent is that the piece be 100% in English.
Incidental use of a foreign word or phrase would be accepted. An entire verse in a foreign language would
result in a penalty.

Category 3, 4: Brass Solo, Woodwind Solo

1. Memory is not required of instrumental solos (except piano).
2. Students will perform one selection or medley within 8 minutes.

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Category 5: String Solo

1. This category is for bowed instruments. The only not-bowed instrument allowed is a harp. (Guitars, banjos,
and other strummed or plucked instruments are not allowed.)
2. Memory is not required of instrumental solos (except piano).
3. Students will perform one selection or medley within 8 minutes.

Category 6: Percussion Solo

1. A percussion solo must be a solo or concert etude. It must be from “standard concert literature” and must
conform to the General Rules for music. Since much of this literature is unaccompanied, an accompanist is
optional.
2. Memory is not required of instrumental solos (except piano).
3. The solo must fit one of the following categories:
a. Snare Drum Solo
b. Timpani Solo
c. Mallet Percussion: any instrument with notes arranged in piano keyboard fashion including, but not
limited to orchestra bells (or glockenspiel), xylophone, marimba, or vibraphone.
d. Multiple Percussion: multiple percussion has no standard set of instruments, but often has a
combination of snare drums, concert toms, and small instruments such as a triangle, wood blocks, or
cymbals.
4. No electronic devices are permitted. No drum sets are permitted.
5. Handbells are not permitted in this category.
6. Students will perform one selection or medley within 8 minutes.
7. Refer to the AACS website for instruments provided by the host school for these categories: Percussion
Solo, Large Instrumental Ensemble, and Orchestra/Band.

Category 7, 8: Sacred Piano Solo, Classical Piano Solo

1. All piano solos will be memorized. Failure to memorize will result in disqualification.
2. Students will perform one selection or medley within 8 minutes.

Rules by Category (Group Competition)

Category 9: Small Vocal Ensemble Category 14: Orchestra/Band
Category 10: Large Vocal Ensemble Category 15: Handbell/Handchime Ensemble
Category 11: Choral Group Category 16: Handbell/Handchime Choir
Category 12: Small Instrumental Ensemble Category 17: Sacred Piano Duet
Category 13: Large Instrumental Ensemble Category 18: Classical Piano Duet

Category 9, 10: Small Vocal Ensemble, Large Vocal Ensemble

1. A small vocal ensemble consists of 2 to 6 voices (plus piano accompaniment if desired). It may not be
directed.
2. A large vocal ensemble consists of 7 to 12 voices (plus piano accompaniment if desired). It may be
directed.
3. Each ensemble will perform one selection or medley within 8 minutes.
4. Memory is required of vocal groups. Failure to memorize when required will result in disqualification.

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Category 11: Choral Group

1. A choral group consists of 13 to 24 members. It may be directed.
2. Each choral group will perform two numbers within 12 minutes. At least one selection must be sacred. At
least one selection must be in English. The intent is that the piece be 100% in English. Incidental use of a
foreign word or phrase would be accepted. An entire verse in a foreign language would result in penalty.
3. Memory is required of vocal groups. Failure to memorize when required will result in disqualification.

Category 12, 13, 15: Small Instrumental Ensemble, Large Instrumental Ensemble,
Handbell/Handchime Ensemble
1. A small instrumental ensemble consists of 2 to 6 instruments (plus piano accompaniment if desired). It
may not be directed.
2. A large instrumental ensemble consists of 7 to 12 instruments (plus piano accompaniment if desired). It
may be directed.
3. A handbell/handchime ensemble consists of 2 to 6 musicians (plus piano accompaniment if desired). It
may not be directed.
4. Each ensemble will perform one selection or medley within 8 minutes.
5. Memory is not required of instrumental groups.
6. Percussion ensembles are allowed in the large instrumental ensemble category (Category 13). No
electronic devices are permitted. No drum sets are permitted. The following instruments are allowed:
a. Snare Drum
b. Timpani
c. Mallet Percussion: any instrument with notes arranged in piano keyboard fashion including, but not
limited to orchestra bells (or glockenspiel), xylophone, marimba, or vibraphone.
d. Multiple Percussion: multiple percussion has no standard set of instruments, but often has a
combination of snare drums, concert toms, and small instruments such as a triangle, wood blocks, or
cymbals.
7. Percussion ensembles are excluded from the small instrumental ensemble category, and no percussion
instruments will be permitted in small instrumental ensembles (Category 12).
8. For all handbell competition, schools will be required to provide all equipment (bells, pads, etc.) except
tables.
9. Refer to the AACS website for instruments provided by the host school for these categories: Percussion
Solo, Large Instrumental Ensemble, and Orchestra/Band.

Category 14: Orchestra/Band

1. An orchestra or band consists of 13 or more musicians. It may be directed.
2. An orchestra or band will perform two numbers within 15 minutes.
3. Seventh and eighth graders may compete.
4. Refer to the AACS website for instruments provided by the host school for these categories: Percussion
Solo, Large Instrumental Ensemble, and Orchestra/Band.
5. Memory is not required of instrumental groups.

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Category 16: Handbell/Handchime Choir

1. A handbell/handchime choir consists of 7 or more musicians (plus piano accompaniment if desired).
2. A handbell/handchime choir will perform two numbers within 15 minutes. It may be directed.
3. Seventh and eighth graders may compete.
4. For all handbell competition, schools will be required to provide all equipment (bells, pads, etc.) except
tables.
5. Memory is not required of instrumental groups.

Category 17, 18: Sacred Piano Duet, Classical Piano Duet

1. Sacred piano duet consists of two students and one piano. Only sacred music is acceptable.
2. Classical piano duet consists of two students and one piano. Only classical music is acceptable.
3. Students will perform one selection or medley within 8 minutes.
4. Memory is not required of instrumental groups.

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2020 National Competition Manual

Area Three: Speech

 National Competition Manual – Area Three: Speech

Area Three: Speech

Individual Events Group Events
Category 1: Dramatic Interpretation Category 9: Acting
Category 2: Oral Interpretation of Poetry Category 10: Readers Theatre
Category 3: Religious Reading Category 11: Choric Speaking
Category 4: Declamation Category 12: Debate
Category 5: Humorous Interpretation
Category 6: Original Persuasive Oratory
Category 7: Extemporaneous Speaking
Category 8: Oral Interpretation of Scripture

Speech General Rules

1. All material should be in good taste and of high quality. Entries will not be restricted to sacred themes.
However, entries which reflect anti-biblical themes, content, and/or word usage (including profanity or
suggestive language)—or which contain sensualism, humanism, or worldliness (including offensive
performance)—will be disqualified.
2. No student or group will perform the same selection in two consecutive years. In addition, the same
selection is not to be used by multiple groups from the same school in the same year.
3. Singing of a song during a speech is to be limited to no more than one verse of the song or no more than
1.5 minutes of the speech. In addition, no instrument may be used to accompany the individual or group
during the speech performance.
4. All selections are to be memorized (no scripts permitted), excluding the areas of Debate, Original
Persuasive Oratory, and Extemporaneous Speaking.
5. Each student must submit three typewritten copies of his selection to the judges prior to his performance.
6. A lectern may be used only in the categories of Debate and Extemporaneous Speaking.
7. The following rules apply to categories 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 8.
a. Body movement should be primarily, but not limited to, movement above the waist.
b. No hand props or costume pieces will be permitted.
c. All selections will be taken from published works.
d. In addition to General Rule 10, the contestant may reintroduce himself, the selection, and author as
well as provide the audience with necessary background information in order to set the mood for the
piece. He may also give transitional narrative for clarity within the piece. These additions combined are
not to exceed 1 minute and are included in the time limit. Transitional material must be included in the
script provided for the judges.
8. The time limit for all individual categories (Categories 1–8) is 5–10 minutes. With the exception of Debate,
the time limit for all group categories (Categories 9–11) is 5–13 minutes.
9. Students will be penalized for going over time or under time in any category of competition where time
limits are established. When a student violates his time limit by more than one minute, the student will be
disqualified. However, if he is over time or under time, but not by one minute, points or a fraction of a
point will be deducted which will prevent an otherwise first-place winner from placing first, a second-place
winner from placing second, or a third-place winner from placing third.

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10. The judge will confirm the speaker and say, “You may begin.” Timing and adjudication will begin
immediately.
11. Selected students will be chosen from the first session to participate in the final competition session.
a. Call-backs will be held if there are ten or more entries in a speech category (Categories 1–11).
b. In categories where second rounds are called (speech, preaching, Bible teaching), AACS will provide
judging forms for the second round. The competitor must provide judging forms for the first round.
Students must use the AACS judging forms from the current National Competition Manual.
12. Recording is absolutely prohibited except for the recording of a single entry by representatives of the
participant’s school for personal use. The recording of all or portions of the performance of more than one
entry in an event is prohibited. In any case, the head judge in a competition may prohibit recording. No
recording made by anyone other than competition officials may be considered for adjudication purposes.

Rules by Category (Individual Competition)

Category 1: Dramatic Interpretation Category 5: Humorous Interpretation
Category 2: Oral Interpretation of Poetry Category 6: Original Persuasive Oratory
Category 3: Religious Reading Category 7: Extemporaneous Speaking
Category 4: Declamation Category 8: Oral Interpretation of Scripture

Category 1: Dramatic Interpretation

Definition: The memorized oral interpretation by an individual of a serious selection of narrative or dramatic
literature.

1. Cuttings may incorporate multiple characters, but monologues are acceptable.

2. Religious readings are not appropriate and should be entered in Category 3: Religious Reading.

Category 2: Oral Interpretation of Poetry

Definition: The memorized oral interpretation of poetry by an individual.

1. Selections from the Bible are not appropriate and should be entered in Category 8: Oral Interpretation of
Scripture.
2. Selection must be a single work or a cutting of a longer work.

Category 3: Religious Reading

Definition: The memorized oral interpretation of prose by an individual.

1. The selection should inspire or convict spiritually.

2. The presentation should include dialogue and be dramatic in nature.
3. Selections from the Bible are not appropriate and should be entered in Category 8: Oral Interpretation of
Scripture.

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Category 4: Declamation
Definition: The memorized oral interpretation of persuasive or inspirational material of high literary value,
originally prepared by and presented orally by another person or persons.

1. Selections must come from published speeches.

2. The delivery should not be acted out with characters. The delivery should be free from contrived accents.
The delivery should be directed toward the audience and not toward an assumed off-stage audience.
3. Selections from the Bible are not appropriate and should be entered in Category 8: Oral Interpretation of
Scripture.

Category 5: Humorous Interpretation

Definition: The memorized oral interpretation of a humorous selection by an individual.

1. Cuttings are to be taken from published plays or prose.

2. Selections with multiple characters are preferred.

Category 6: Original Persuasive Oratory

Definition: The largely memorized oral presentation of an original persuasive speech by an individual of which
no more than 10% is direct quotation. It is designed to move an audience toward personal action or to sway
audience opinion.

1. Only one 3 x 5 card of notes may be used.

2. Small hand props or costume pieces may not be used. Posters, charts, etc., will not be allowed.
3. Three typewritten scripts must be submitted to the judges at performance time.

Category 7: Extemporaneous Speaking

Definition: A persuasive speech on a current issue. The student will be given 30 minutes of preparation time.
Topics, drawn randomly, will be from the January, February, and March issues of various news magazines.
Refer to the AACS website for the current list.

1. Topics will be stated as questions requiring the student to take a position on the issue.
2. At ten-minute intervals each student will draw three topic cards. The student will select one topic and
advise the judge of his choice. All three topic cards will then be returned to the judge for subsequent
drawings. Prior to a final round (if one is needed) all topic cards used in the preliminary rounds will be
discarded.
3. Students will prepare speeches without consultation and without references to prepared notes.
a. Students may access research brought with them to the competition during the preparation period.
b. Students should review news articles and opinion pieces from reputable sources.
c. Student research and speech references are not limited to the magazines from which topics will be
drawn. Research documents may be paper or electronic.
d. Students may not access the Internet during the 30-minute prep period.
e. All articles referenced must be printed or stored on a laptop or tablet.
f. Referenced documents may be originals or copies of whole pages.

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 National Competition Manual – Area Three: Speech

g. No written material is permitted on any referenced document other than citation information.
h. Underlining or highlighting on referenced documents is permitted if done in only one color on each
article.
i. Students may access no other material during the preparation period—no speeches, handbooks,
outlines, or briefs are permitted.
4. Students will not receive any assistance during preparation time.
5. A student is permitted to use one 3 x 5 card for notes.
6. The timekeeper will show numbered cards nine through one at one-minute intervals during the speech to
alert the speaker of remaining time.
7. A competing student is not permitted to listen to other students until after he has completed his speech.

Category 8: Oral Interpretation of Scripture

Definition: A memorized oral interpretation by an individual of one long or two short passages from the Bible
(King James Version only, see General Information: Bible Usage), with appropriate introduction and transition.
Performers are encouraged to select narrative (story) passages. A passage with dialogue in which characters
speak is recommended. Students will be evaluated based on the effective use of distinct and separate
characters.

Rules by Category (Group Competition)

Category 9: Acting Category 11: Choric Speaking
Category 10: Readers Theatre Category 12: Debate

Category 9: Acting
Definition: A stage performance in which two to six individuals each portray one character without the use of
script, costumes, staging, lights, sound effects, or makeup.

1. Cuttings must be taken from published dramatic literature, published plays by a reputable author, or from
published prose that has been scripted for stage.
2. Acting will develop understandable scenes with clear character action and reaction. The scene(s) should
grow through increased insight, intensification of plot or mood, and thematic statement.
3. Actors may speak to silent or off-stage characters.
4. Each actor may portray only one character.
5. Narration: A brief introduction or scene description may be given, but is not required, for each scene
change. The narration must be done by one or more of the actors. The narration may be done by any of
the actors and does not violate the requirement that each actor may portray only one character.
6. Full costuming is not permitted. Actors may make use of small hand props and costume accessories (such
as an umbrella, shawl, gloves, hat, glasses, etc.). In a quality performance, small props may be used
appropriately to enhance the performance and props are not used excessively so that they distract from
the performance.
7. Participants must be able to perform their scene(s) in an acting space of approximately 18’ x 10’.
8. Prohibited elements in this category include Readers Theatre performances, full costuming, makeup,
lighting, and furniture other than a table and chairs, stools, or boxes.

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Category 10: Readers Theatre

Definition: The oral presentation of dramatic, poetic, or prose material by a group focused on the audience,
utilizing some or all of the following techniques: effective use of distinct and separate characters, out of scene,
characterization, group speaking, and group movement. The presentation may include these types: cameo
(face only movement), upper body, or whole body movement. Characters are not to interact with each other
as they do in Acting. (Refer to Distinctions between Readers Theatre and Choric Speaking.)

1. Group size consists of three to six individuals.

2. Readers may make use of small hand props and costume accessories (such as an umbrella, shawl, gloves,
hat, glasses, etc.). In a quality performance, small props may be used appropriately to enhance the
performance and props are not used excessively to that they distract from the performance. No makeup,
lighting, full costumes, or furniture other than a table, chairs, and stools. Platforms or prop boxes are
permitted.
3. All members dressed in black (or any color) or in the same style shall not be considered to be wearing
costumes.
4. The presentation will be judged on originality of arrangement and the skillful use of the techniques to
move the audience with the chosen material. Memorization is required. It may not be directed.
5. Any form of literature, poetry or prose, adapted to the Readers Theatre form will be appropriate for this
contest. All literature must meet acceptable guidelines.

Category 11: Choric Speaking

Definition: An oral group presentation utilizing some or all of the following techniques: unison speaking, solo
speaking, vocal effects, word color, dramatic climax, and group movement. Characters are not to interact with
each other as they do in Acting. (Refer to Distinctions between Readers Theatre and Choric Speaking.)

1. Group size consists of seven to fifteen individuals.

2. The presentation must be memorized. It may not be directed.
3. All members dressed in the same color or style shall not be considered to be wearing costumes.
4. The presentation will be judged on originality of arrangement and the skillful use of the techniques to
move the audience with the chosen material.
5. Scripts: Any form of literature, poetry, or prose adapted to Choric Speaking form will be appropriate for
this contest. All literature and music used in the choric reading must be published material. More than one
script may be combined along with music to design the Choric Reading; otherwise the scripts must meet
guidelines listed in Speech General Rules 1.
6. Movement/Interaction:
a. Group movement may be used to enhance the presentation, but should be limited to simple choices
such as changing positions between “scenes” or divisions in the presentation.
b. Movement, individual and group, should be more limited than movement in Readers Theatre.
c. Characters are not to interact with each other, as they do in Acting. All speaking and visual expression
is to be directed toward the audience rather than toward other actors. There should be no intentional
physical contact between characters.
7. Hand Props/Instruments: No hand props or costume pieces will be permitted. An instrument may not be
played during the presentation and auditory props may not be used.
8. Risers may be used.

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9. Music: Any form of singing or music used in the presentation should be used to complement the speech
effects, and may not exceed 1.5 minutes of the entire presentation.
10. Use of Voice and Group vs. Individual Voices: Performers are to express different pitch levels, pace, pause
effect, rate, intensity, and volume. Their speech should be expressed mainly in groups of voices, with
infrequent solo lines. Large and small group voices must dominate. Excessive use of dialogue between
characters without engagement of the chorus must not dominate the performance. Diction must be clearly
understood, spoken with ease, and expressed with energy.

Distinctions between Readers Theatre and Choric Speaking

1. Readers Theatre emphasizes the individual performers, whereas Choric Speaking emphasizes the group
speaking with one collective “voice.”
2. Readers Theatre relies on each individual speaker’s unique characterizations and use of other individual
acting techniques, while Choric Speaking relies on the group speaking as one body using varying
combinations of unison and solo voices.
3. Readers Theatre is more closely related to characterization and acting, while Choric Speaking is basically a
speaking choir with many voices.
4. The emphasis of Readers Theatre is the dramatized development of a text via visual elements and the
spoken interaction of individual performers. The emphasis of Choric Speaking is the creative use of the
voice (vocal variety, word color, etc.) in a choral manner to reinforce the meaning of the text. Choric
Speaking is primarily an auditory presentation.

Category 12: Debate

Schedule Notice: The schedule for Debate at the National Competition will make it extremely difficult, or
impossible, for debaters to participate in other performance competitions. Debaters are warned not to
register for other performances, as there is a strong possibility that schedules will conflict. If a competitor is
involved in other events that conflict, he will be required to forfeit the conflicting event(s).

Definition: Organized oral argument on a current event topic providing participant opportunity to display skills
of logical reasoning, research and use of evidence, oral persuasion, conversational, and extemporaneous
delivery before a critic.
1. A team will consist of two members, both of whom must be present to avoid forfeiture.
2. A team will be prepared to debate both the pro and con positions of the issue.
3. Rules and tournament procedures (including judging forms) will adhere to the rules published by the
National Speech and Debate Association, www.speechanddebate.org. Guidelines to help students prepare
for Debate are found at www.speechanddebate.org. Debate procedures are in the Appendix.
4. A script or notes will be acceptable.
5. Computers will be allowed at the national level. Online access is not allowed. The guidelines for computer
use as published by the National Speech and Debate Association will be followed.
6. The debate topic changes each year. The state and national topic will be announced by AACS on the AACS
website.

Research is the key to effective debate. Delivery is secondary. All aspects of the topic from both the
affirmative and the negative positions should be researched thoroughly, since debaters will be required to
defend both sides of the question sometime during the competition.

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2020 National Competition Manual

Area Four: Art

 National Competition Manual – Area Four: Art

Area Four: Art

Category 1: Calligraphy Category 10: Crafts
Category 2: Monochromatic Drawing Category 11: Printmaking
Category 3: Polychromatic Drawing Category 12: Digital Media
Category 4: Watercolor Category 13: Woodworking
Category 5: Oil Painting Category 14: Mixed Media
Category 6: Acrylic Painting Category 15: Still Life and Macro Photography
Category 7: Sculpture Category 16: Landscapes and Architecture Photography
Category 8: Garment Construction Category 17: People and Animal Photography
Category 9: Textiles

Art General Rules

1. Entries are not restricted to sacred themes, but entries which reflect sensualism, humanism, occultism, or
worldliness will be disqualified; basically, any subject detrimental to spiritual edification will not be
allowed. Competition officials shall have full authority for making any determination in this regard.
Projects determined to be inappropriate for this competition will be penalized or disqualified.
2. Each entry will be the original creation of the participant alone, but the participant may have had advice or
instruction.
3. Each entry must have been created since the last National Competition.
4. Students should do original drawings or paintings from imagination or actual life. Working from a personal
photograph is allowed.
a. If a photograph taken by another person is used, written permission from that person is required. The
student must strive to be creative in his interpretation of the photograph, rather than trying to copy it
exactly. There must be a significant change, at least 40%, in the artwork when using another person’s
photograph. Any photograph used must be included with the artwork. Copying of any existing artwork
(painting, drawing, illustration, etc.) is prohibited.
b. Entries may not include likenesses or representations of any copyrighted or licensed artwork or
characters (such as characters or recognizable environments from animated films or any form of
sequential art) in part or in whole. Use of such artwork is a violation of international copyright law.
5. Two-dimensional work must be matted or framed or gallery-wrapped canvas or cradled. Framing is an
important aspect of the presentation of a work of art. A simple frame and mat are effective. Elaborate
mats and heavy ornamental frames are not necessary and sometimes detract from the artwork. (See
photography rule 5 for specific photography requirements.)
6. All works must be ready to display. Framed work or gallery-wrapped canvas or cradled must use picture
hanging wire and appropriate attachments. Sawtooth picture hangers are not acceptable. Work that is
matted but not framed must have hook-side Velcro® in the four corners (more Velcro® may be necessary
for larger or heavier entries). Three-dimensional and textile entries must include provision for display.
Entries with no provision for display will be exhibited in the most expedient manner.
7. Entries should be durable enough to withstand transport and the competition environment. Overly fragile
or sensitive items could be broken in transit, during judging, or during exhibition.
8. The student must bring a completed exhibitor tag with his project. See AACS website.
9. Each student must sign the Statement of Originality on the Artist’s Idea Statement.

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10. Each entry must have attached to one of the judging forms a completed Artist’s Idea Statement which
gives the source of his idea and explains how he developed his artwork from the idea. (See Judging Forms,
Artist’s Idea Statement.) Photographs showing the development of the artwork may be included, if
desired. Photographs are not a replacement for a required pattern.
11. The art student is not required to attend National Competition.
12. Special external lighting will not be permitted (i.e., spotlight, overhead, or underlighting). The lighting in
the exhibit room is the only external lighting that will be allowed. Lighting that is part of the piece
(integrated into the piece and self-contained) to illuminate areas may be allowed only for the following
categories: Woodworking, Sculpture, and Crafts. Power sources for lighting must not require electrical plug
in for display.

Rules by Category
Category 1: Calligraphy
1. Lettering will be done with a calligraphy pen, either metal or fiber tip. Ruling pens, quills, automatic pens,
paint pens, and archival ink monoline pens are also acceptable. Ordinary felt tip markers are not
acceptable.
2. No traced letters or dry-transfer lettering will be acceptable.
3. Any style of calligraphy or hand-lettering may be used, and should be based on established lettering styles.
4. The entry may contain other elements (color, illustration) but the lettering should be the dominant
element.
5. Lettering should be original (i.e., done by the student himself). Alphabet styles may be based on a sample
supplied by the teacher or taken from a book.
6. Attention should be paid to the overall composition or arrangement of words and lines to ensure balance,
focus, and communication.
7. If the entry is not in English, the contestant must include a translation attached to the Artist’s Idea
Statement.

Category 2: Monochromatic Drawing

1. Monochromatic drawing is done in only one color.
2. The student may use ink, pencil, charcoal, or another drawing medium; a combination of these media is
acceptable.
3. Work done in a medium subject to smearing must be sealed with a protective spray, or be covered with
clear glass or acetate.

Category 3: Polychromatic Drawing

1. Polychromatic drawing is done in more than one color.
2. The student may use pastels, crayons, colored pencils, or another drawing medium; a combination of
these media is acceptable.
3. Work done in a medium subject to smearing must be sealed with a protective spray, or be covered with
clear glass or acetate.

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Category 4: Watercolor
1. Translucent techniques will be acceptable; use of proper watercolor paper is required. Aqua board is also
acceptable.
2. Opaque techniques will be acceptable if the paints used qualify as watercolors.
3. Any water-based medium, such as watercolor, gouache, or tempera, may be used.

Category 5: Oil Painting

1. Oil painting involves the use of oil-based paints on a suitable ground.
2. Oil paint and appropriate solvents must be used. Paint should be applied to a ground suitable to the
medium. These include, but are not limited to, canvas, wood, and assorted art boards.
3. The work must be completely dry before it is submitted.

Category 6: Acrylic Painting

1. Acrylic painting involves the use of acrylic paints on a suitable ground.
2. Paints must be acrylic polymers and should be applied to a ground suitable to the medium. These include,
but are not limited to, canvas, wood, and assorted art boards. Additional substances may be used for
textural effects, as long as the surface of the work remains paint.
3. The work must be completely dry before it is submitted.

Category 7: Sculpture
1. Sculpture is the art of carving (subtracting), modeling (shaping), or welding (combining) to produce a
three-dimensional work.
2. Works from molds are acceptable if the student created the mold and poured the object himself. Molds
must be presented with the finished artwork.
3. Acceptable materials include, but are not limited to the following: wood, plaster, stone, metal, wax,
ceramic slip, clay (both fired and unfired), balsa foam, model magic, and friendly plastic. Paper alone is an
unacceptable material for sculpture. Paper as a binding agent and molding medium is acceptable, i.e.
papier-mâché.
4. No objects should be displayed other than the sculpture itself (i.e., flowers, plants, toys).
5. If possible, the sculpture should have an attached base. If a base is not attached, then the project should
be placed on an appropriate surface, such as a ceramic tile, for display purposes.
6. Entries should not include models or dioramas.

Category 8: Garment Construction

1. Garment construction from fabric or non-traditional materials, such as paper, plastic, recycled materials,
etc., is allowed.
2. Accessories are not considered garments for this category.
3. Kits are not acceptable; however, commercially produced plans or patterns are acceptable. A copy of the
plan or pattern must accompany the project. Photographs showing the development of the project are not
a replacement for the required plan or pattern.
4. Garments must come to the competition ready for display on a dress form, mannequin, or substantial
hanger (such as wood or metal). Garments will not be displayed on wire laundry hangers or plastic store-
type hangers.

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5. All designed garments must meet general standards of decency and modesty. Competition officials shall
have full authority for making any determination in this regard. Projects determined to be inappropriate
will be penalized.
6. Garment construction will be judged on the basis of originality, artistic design, and professional
construction. Professional construction includes smooth well-pressed seams and hems, seam finishes on
fabric raw edges, precise detail work, and overall neatness.
7. Machine sewing is allowed.

Category 9: Textiles
1. Entries will be limited to selections from this listing:
a. Macramé, weaving (must show extensive, comprehensive work), quilting, needlework (such as
candlewicking, embroidery, ribbon embroidery, crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, needlepoint, or crewel,
etc.). No purchased garments, towels or similar items are permitted for these entries.
b. Wearable art using appliqué, paints, silk-dye, batik, or tie-dye items. Purchased garments, towels or
similar items are permitted for these entries.
2. Kits are not acceptable; however, commercially produced plans or patterns are acceptable. When a
commercially produced plan or pattern is used, a copy of the plan or pattern must accompany the project.
Photographs showing development of the artwork are not a replacement for the required plan or pattern.
3. No objects should be displayed other than the textile itself (no furniture, plants, or other items).

Category 10: Crafts

1. A craft can be anything three dimensional that is not strictly a sculpture or a textile and that conforms to
craft rule 2.
2. Types of projects are limited to the following: jewelry making, stained glass, candle making, flower
arranging (only if the student has made the flowers), decorative castings (from plaster, etc., as long as the
student pours and decorates it himself), basketry, tole painting (on wood or metal), wood burning, sand
art, ribbon crafts, string/thread art, decoupage, diorama, beadwork, leather work, metal repousse,
punched designs into metal, papier-mâché, origami (paper folding), and mosaic. Other types of craft
projects may be entered with permission of the state office organizing the local competition. The state
office approval form must be included with the other paperwork submitted with the project.
3. Purchased beads, pin backs or earring backs for jewelry are acceptable. Containers and garments used for
these projects may be purchased.
4. No kits or commercially produced plans, or parts of such, are acceptable. Entries are to be original and
handmade, not copied from a commercial pattern. A commercially produced pattern is allowed only for
origami.

Category 11: Printmaking

1. Printmaking is a design or picture carved or etched into one surface, then inked and transferred to another
surface. More than one carved or etched surface may be employed to produce a single print.
2. The following printing materials (matrices) will be acceptable: linoleum block, woodcut, etching, dry point,
collagraph, silk screen, speedy-carve material, glass, Plexiglass, and glass-like material.

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Category 12: Digital Media

1. Digital Media is a category which includes digitally created art that goes beyond a single artistic medium
such as photography or painting. Digital Media means the composition or design is created, developed,
assembled, or finished with the use of computer hardware and software. Many graphic design projects are
considered Digital Media.
2. Digital Media may be pixel-based, vector-based, or a combination of the two. The work may include
illustration elements, typography, photography, scanned elements, and other digital elements. All
elements must be the student’s original creation. Photos and illustrations (if used) must be student’s
original work.
3. The digital file may be printed on a variety of media including, but not limited to, paper or canvas. The final
print should be of high enough resolution to produce a smooth image with no unintended pixilation. The
final print should be suitably matted, mounted, or framed as with any piece of fine art.
4. Digital Media will be judged on the basis of composition, aesthetic appeal, originality, and technical
achievement.
5. A storage device with the digital image in its original file is to be submitted with the entry. This should be
protected in an envelope taped to the back of the entry; the name of the student and his/her school
should be written on the envelope.
6. In addition, a process document must be included illustrating the resources used (such as photos, scans,
illustrations, or other elements) in creating the entry. The process document should be a piece of paper (or
papers); this is for a quick reference for the judges to view all of the elements used in the project. Include
the process document with other paperwork (judging forms, artist idea statement). Do not create a book
or booklet; this document will not be returned.

Category 13: Woodworking

1. Entries such as tables, chests, shelving, furniture, and other pieces using carpentry techniques such as
joinery are appropriate for this category. Pieces shaped or created using artisanal techniques such as pens
or bowls should be entered in other appropriate categories such as sculpture (carving) or crafts.
2. The design must be original. A simple mechanical drawing done by the student must be submitted.
3. All production procedures (sawing, mitering, routing, assembling, and finishing) must be done by the
student himself; the work may be done under adult supervision.
4. The maximum size is 40 cubic feet.
5. No kits are permitted.

Category 14: Mixed Media

1. Mixed Media includes predominantly two-dimensional artwork, including relief elements, which combines
two or more mediums including the use of paint, ink, pencil, chalk, oil paints, tempera paints, sand,
collage, and printmaking.
2. Adhesives and glazes such as glues, fixatives, etc., are allowed in the assembling and finishing processes.
Photographs not taken by the student may be used as long as the portion used cannot be recognized as
part of the original picture.
3. Materials must be created by the student, with the exception that parts not made by the student should
total no more than 20% of the overall work. These should not be the dominant feature of the piece.

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General Rules for Photography: Category 15, Category 16, Category 17

1. The print may not have obvious touch-up work. Good retouching, whether digital or analog, cannot be
detected.
a. Retouching work should be limited to enhancements and modification that improve the presentation
of the image, but do not change the truth of the original story. The photographer may not add or
replace elements in an image. Red-eye removal and spot editing are permitted.
b. Retouching may only include the use of corrective functions to improve the natural appearance (for
example: levels, contrast, brightness, curves, intensity, tone, hue, saturation, color balance, etc.).
c. Artistic filters may not be used.
d. Retouching is part of the creative process. Good retouching cannot be seen and poor retouching will be
graded against; therefore, graphics and text must not be included.
2. The print will be judged on the basis of composition, aesthetic appeal, and originality.
3. The name of the student, the school, and the school address must be on a label in the top center location
on the back of the print.
4. The minimum print size is 7 x 10 inches.
5. Photos must be matted and may not be framed. White or neutral mats are recommended for this
category. Photos may be double matted, but decorative elements (such as scrolling) on the mat are not
permitted.
6. Photography must be accompanied by Photography Artist’s Idea Statement.
7. Note: Not every photograph will fit one of these categories. To be entered in this competition, a
photograph must fit one of the listed categories.

Category 15: Still Life and Macro Photography

1. The photograph must be a single black-and-white or color image of a still life, macro photograph, or
design.
2. Still Life photography is a grouping of small objects placed in arrangement by human design in a pleasing
composition.
3. Macro photography is an extreme close-up of a subject at a magnification of life-size or larger.

Category 16: Landscapes and Architecture Photography

1. The photograph must be a single black-and-white or color image of a landscape or architecture.
2. Landscape photography is an expanse of scenery that is extensive and can be seen from a single viewpoint,
such as a picture representing natural inland or coastal scenery.
3. Architecture photography is of manmade buildings and structures that capture the entire construction or
only a portion.

Category 17: People and Animal Photography

1. The photograph must be a single black-and-white or color image of people or animals.
2. People photography is of an individual or group that is the main subject in the composition. It may be
posed or candid.
3. Animal photography is of animals in their captive or natural setting. This category includes any living thing
that is not human or a plant.

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Area Five: Academics

 National Competition Manual – Area Five: Academics

Area Five: Academics

Division 1: Bible and Academic Testing
Category 1: Old Testament Bible Knowledge Category 9: World History/Geography
Category 2: New Testament Bible Knowledge Category 10: U.S. History/Geography
Category 3: English Category 11: Accounting
Category 4: Algebra/Geometry Category 12: Home Economics
Category 5: Advanced Mathematics Category 13: Political Science/Economics
Category 6: Biology Category 14: Music Theory
Category 7: Chemistry Category 15: Spanish
Category 8: Physics

Division 2: Spelling
Category 16: Spelling

Division 3: Composition
Category 17: Creative Writing: Poetry Category 18: Expository Writing: Essay

Division 4: Science Fair

Category 19: Biological Sciences Category 20: Physical Sciences

Academic General Rules

A student may enter a total of two Academic categories. However, he may enter only one category from
Division 3 and one category from Division 4. (He may not enter both composition categories or both science
fair categories.)
Example: He may take two academic tests; or he may take one academic test and enter a science fair project;
or he may enter one writing category and one science fair project.

Division 1: Bible and Academic Testing General Rules

1. A student may enter a total of two Academic categories. However, he may enter only one category from
Division 3 and one category from Division 4. (He may not enter both composition categories or both
science fair categories.)
Example: He may take two academic tests; or he may take one academic test and enter a science fair
project; or he may enter one writing category and one science fair project.
2. One examination will be given in each category. The time limit for an academic category cannot exceed 75
minutes.
3. Examinations must be taken during the testing period.
a. Examinations may be taken at the student’s school. The exam must be proctored. The testing period
will be announced on the AACS website.
b. Examinations may be taken on campus during National Competition. If taken at National Competition,
the examinations must be taken at the designated testing site(s) during the scheduled on-campus
testing periods.
4. Selected-response questions will be posed in a variety of forms.

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5. In categories requiring math computation (except for Algebra/Geometry and Advanced Math), non-
programmable scientific calculators will be permitted.
a. The following will not be permitted: (1) calculators with graphing capabilities, (2) calculators which use
paper tape or printers, (3) hand-held computers, pocket organizers, or laptop computers, and (4)
programmable calculators.
b. Any necessary tables or charts will be provided.
6. Graphing calculators are permitted for Algebra/Geometry and Advanced Math.
7. No Bibles, reference materials, notes, or study guides will be allowed during testing.

Rules by Category
Category 1: Old Testament Bible Knowledge
Competition in this category will be by written examination, testing knowledge of factual or objective material
(rather than interpretive), from pre-assigned Old Testament books.

The six-year cycle by school year is stated below:

2020–2021 Genesis
2021–2022 Joshua, Judges
2022–2023 1 & 2 Samuel
2023–2024 Proverbs
2024–2025 Isaiah
2025–2026 Nehemiah, Daniel, Jonah

Category 2: New Testament Bible Knowledge

Competition in this category will be by written examination, testing knowledge of factual or objective material
(rather than interpretive), from pre-assigned New Testament books.

The six-year cycle by school year is stated below:

2020–2021 Mark, Acts
2021–2022 Romans, 1 Corinthians
2022–2023 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians
2023–2024 Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy
2024–2025 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James
2025–2026 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, & 3 John, Jude, Revelation

Category 3: English
1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Grammar and usage: eight parts of speech, phrases, clauses, agreement, etc.
b. Vocabulary in context and spelling recognition
c. Mechanics: capitalization and punctuation
d. Library: research techniques, bibliography, footnote forms
e. Diagramming
2. No composition will be required.
3. No questions pertaining to literature will be asked.

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Category 4: Algebra/Geometry
1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Algebra 1
b. Algebra 2
c. Geometry

Category 5: Advanced Mathematics

1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Trigonometry
b. Analytical Geometry
c. Permutations, Combinations, and Probability
d. Pre-Calculus
e. Theory of Equations
f. Sequences and Series
g. Statistics
h. Limits
i. Advanced Algebra
j. Function Analysis
k. Matrix Algebra
l. Vectors
m. Complex Numbers

Category 6: Biology
1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Cells
b. Protozoa
c. Algae and Fungi
d. Plants
e. Genetics
f. Vertebrate and Invertebrate Physiology
g. Human Anatomy
h. Fossils

Category 7: Chemistry
1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Matter and Energy
b. Atoms
c. Formulas and Equations
d. Gases, Liquids, and Solids
e. Periodic Table Families
f. Equilibrium
g. Chemistry Laws
h. Acids and Bases

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i. Metric Units
j. Scientific Methods
k. Chemical Bonding

Category 8: Physics
1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Motion and Energy
b. Metric Units
c. Light
d. Electricity
e. Heat
f. Magnetism
g. Physics Laws
h. Sound

Category 9: World History/Geography

1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. World History
b. World Geography

Category 10: U.S. History/Geography

1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. United States History
b. United States Geography

Category 11: Accounting

1. The examination will center upon terminology, theory, and short problems.
2. A calculator is needed. See Bible and academic testing general rules regarding allowable calculators.
3. The examination will consist of questions which may be drawn from any of these topics.
a. Accounting systems: journal entries including basic entries, adjusting entries (accruals and deferrals),
and closing entries; subsidiary ledgers; generally accepted accounting principles.
b. Financial statements: classification of accounts, preparation of statements, financial/ratio analysis,
basic auditing concepts.
c. Assets: cash and bank reconciliations, receivables and bad debts, inventory and cost of goods sold,
fixed assets and depreciation, cost principle.
d. Liabilities and owners’ equity (proprietorships, corporations): purchases on credit, issuance of stock,
retained earnings.
e. Revenues/gains and expenses/losses: realization principle, matching principle.

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Category 12: Home Economics

1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Food and Nutrition
b. Clothing
c. Housing and Home Furnishings

Category 13: Political Science/Economics

1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. General principles of political science, including the nature and historical development of the various
types or forms of governments in the world
b. The nature and historical development of the United States government
c. General principles of free enterprise economic theory

Category 14: Music Theory

1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Major and Minor Key Signatures
b. Major and Minor Scales
c. Harmony
d. Part-writing
e. Figured Bass
f. Cadences
g. Rhythm and Time Signatures
2. The test does not include melodic dictation or aural recognition.

Category 15: Spanish

1. The examination will consist of questions covering:
a. Grammar and Usage
b. Vocabulary
c. Conjugation and Agreement
d. Spanish to English translation and English to Spanish translation

Division 2: Spelling Rules

Category 16: Spelling
Spelling will be conducted in the traditional spelling bee fashion according to the rules listed below.

1. Spelling will be conducted in the traditional spelling bee format in a single elimination fashion.
a. Information regarding the spelling lists is available on the AACS website.
b. The dictionary specified in the current spelling bee information will be the final authority in
determining correctness of spelling and pronunciation.
c. Note: Rules of other national spelling competitions are not necessarily the same as the AACS National
Competition spelling rules.
d. The competition will be recorded for judges’ use only.

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e. Capitalization of a word (whether omitted or added) shall not constitute an error.

f. Students are not required to provide judging forms for Spelling.
2. Spelling Bee procedures:
a. All students will form a single line facing the spelling master.
b. Words will be given to students from left to right.
c. A student will be disqualified upon one spelling error.
d. Words will be chosen from the current spelling bee list. If the spelling master decides that additional
words are necessary, the words will be chosen from the dictionary specified in the official spelling bee
rules. This will be done at the beginning of a new round.
e. Pronunciation will be according to the diacritical markings in the specified dictionary.
f. With the approval of the judges, the spelling master may give a fuller explanation of the meaning of
the word to supplement the dictionary definition(s) quoted.
g. During competition, after the spelling master gives the student a word, the student may also choose to
pronounce the word before spelling it.
h. The student may request the spelling master to re-pronounce the word, define it, give its part of
speech, use it in a sentence, or give its language origin. The master will grant the requests until the
judges agree that the word has been made clear to the student. Judges may call an error against any
student who ignores a request to begin spelling.
i. After receiving the requested help in 2.h., the student will have fifteen seconds to spell the word.
Timing will begin at the student’s repeating the word or at the commencement of the spelling of the
word.
j. Having begun to spell a word, a student may stop and begin again, retracing the spelling from the
beginning; but in the retracing, there can be no change of letters or their sequence from those first
spelled. If letters or their sequences are changed in the respelling, the speller will be declared in error.
k. The correct spelling of any incorrectly spelled word will always be given except when only two students
remain. The next word on the master’s official competition list will then be given to the next student,
whether or not elimination occurs.
l. When the students are reduced to two, the elimination procedure changes, but not before the
completion of the current round. At that point, when one student misspells a word, the other student
will be given an opportunity to spell that same word. If the second student spells that word correctly,
plus the next word on the pronouncer’s list, then the second student shall be declared champion.
 The intent of the rule is to ensure that the remaining competitors have correctly spelled the same
number of words as eliminated competitors before changing the procedure, so the current round
must be completed before the procedure changes. If, at the completion of a round, only one
competitor remains who has not misspelled a word, that competitor is the first-place winner and
the two-person elimination procedure outlined in this rule does not occur. The second- and third-
place winners are awarded in the order that they were eliminated from the contest. If, at the
completion of a round, only two competitors remain, the elimination procedure outlined in this
rule is employed to finish the contest and third place is awarded to the last competitor eliminated
in the previous round. If, at the conclusion of a round, all competitors have been eliminated, the
contest must resume as things were at the beginning of that round—all competitors who were still
in the contest at the beginning of that round are restored and a new round begins with those
competitors spelling in the original order.

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m. If one of the last two spellers misses and the other, after correcting the error, misspells the new word
submitted to him, then the misspelled new word will be referred to the first speller. If the first speller
then succeeds in correcting the error and correctly spells the next word on the pronouncer’s list, then
he will be declared champion.
n. If both spellers misspell the same word, both will continue in the contest; and the one who first
misspelled the word will be given a new word to spell. The contest will then continue under rules 2.l.
and 2.m.
o. Any question relating to the spelling of a word will be referred to the judges immediately. Only a
student speller may lodge a protest. The deadline for lodging a protest will be before the affected
student would have received his next word had he not been eliminated. No protest will be entertained
after a contested word has been given to another speller. When only two spellers remain, a protest
must be made immediately, i.e., before the second speller has begun to spell the word, or, if both have
missed the same word, before the correct spelling is given.
p. The judges have complete authority and control. Their decision will be final in any dispute.

Division 3: Composition General Rules

1. A student may enter a total of two Academic categories. However, he may enter only one category from
Division 3 and one category from Division 4. (He may not enter both composition categories or both
science fair categories.)
Example: He may take two academic tests; or he may take one academic test and enter a science fair
project; or he may enter one writing category and one science fair project.
2. Creative Writing students must supply the appropriate judging form from this manual with the top portion
completed (name, school, etc.).

Category 17: Creative Writing: Poetry

1. The prompt (topic) will not be announced until the beginning of the contest period.
2. The prompt will be available on the AACS website 15 days prior to the first day of competition.
3. The finished entry must be submitted to the AACS office as a digital file (Word document) no later than
1:00 p.m. EDT on the Thursday preceding competition week (5 days prior to the first day of competition).
Late entries will not be accepted.
4. The student may create and refine his entry within the limits of the allotted contest period (from the time
the prompt is announced until the entry is due in the AACS office), but the work must be strictly his own.
5. Previously written poems will not be acceptable.
6. The entry must follow the prescribed format.
a. Page 1 must include the student’s name, school, city, state. It must include a signed Statement of
Originality.
b. Statement of Originality: I certify that this entry is my own original and authentic work and that I
received no help in completing this project other than general instruction and supervision.
c. The student may sign the Statement of Originality by typing his name beneath the statement or by
using a digital signature.
d. Page 2 and following will include the student’s entry.
7. The entry will be judged according to the criteria on the Creative Writing: Poetry judging form from this
manual.

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Category 18: Expository Writing: Essay

1. The prompt (topic) will not be announced until the beginning of the contest period.
2. The prompt will be available on the AACS website 15 days prior to the first day of competition.
3. The finished entry must be submitted to the AACS office as a digital file (Word document) no later than
1:00 p.m. EDT on the Thursday preceding competition week (5 days prior to the first day of competition).
Late entries will not be accepted.
4. The student may create and refine his entry within the limits of the allotted contest period (from the time
the prompt is announced until the entry is due in the AACS office), but the work must be strictly his own.
5. Previously written essays will not be acceptable.
6. The entry must follow the prescribed format.
a. Page 1 must include the student’s name, school, city, state. It must include a signed Statement of
Originality.
b. Statement of Originality: I certify that this entry is my own original and authentic work and that I
received no help in completing this project other than general instruction and supervision.
c. The student may sign the Statement of Originality by typing his name beneath the statement or by
using a digital signature.
d. Page 2 and following will include the student’s entry.
7. An essay will be defined as a written expression of the author’s opinion:
a. Stated in a thesis in the first paragraph.
b. Supported and proven in three to four paragraphs in the body, each introduced by topic sentences that
relate directly to the topic but each providing a different argument or fact.
c. Concluded with a summarizing paragraph which restates the thesis.
d. The essay must be the student’s original work. This is an essay, not a research paper. Students may
review the topic, but no statistics or other quotations requiring source citations are allowed.
8. The essay is not to exceed 1,000 words.
9. Essays may not make use of either first person or second person. Essays written in either first person or
second person will be disqualified. However, essays that contain occasional or infrequent first or second
person pronouns will receive a point deduction. Points or a fraction of a point will be deducted which will
prevent an otherwise first-place winner from placing first, a second-place winner from placing second, or a
third-place winner from placing third.
10. The entry will be judged according to the criteria on the Expository Writing: Essay judging form from this
manual.

Division 4: Science Fair General Rules

1. A student may enter a total of two Academic categories. However, he may enter only one category from
Division 3 and one category from Division 4. (He may not enter both composition categories or both
science fair categories.)
Example: He may take two academic tests; or he may take one academic test and enter a science fair
project; or he may enter one writing category and one science fair project.
2. Science Fair projects will be displayed during the entire competition in the specific location announced by
the competition director.
3. Each student must sign the Statement of Originality found on the Science Fair judging form and be present
to answer questions in defense of his project. Statement of Originality: I certify that this project is my own

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original and authentic work and that I received no help in completing this project other than general
instruction and supervision.
4. Since they are interviewed by the judges, science fair contestants must attend National Competition.
5. Students are required to follow the procedures and format described in the AACS Science Fair Manual.
Science Fair projects are to be individual projects, not group projects.
6. STEM projects may be entered, but they must meet all science fair regulations and requirements.
7. Competition will be held in two distinct areas with the student responsible to choose one specific topic
area or sub-category to enter.

Category 19: Biological Sciences

1. Behavioral and Social Science
2. Biochemistry
3. Botany
4. Medicine and Health
5. Microbiology
6. Zoology

Category 20: Physical Sciences

1. Chemistry
2. Computer Science
3. Earth Science
4. Engineering
5. Environmental Science
6. Mathematics
7. Physics
8. Technology

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Appendix
 National Competition Manual – Appendix: Bible Memory

Appendix: Bible Memory

Competition will be conducted in the traditional spelling bee fashion. The six year cycle by school year is
stated below:
2020–2021 The Wisdom of God
2021–2022 Soul-winning
2022–2023 The Triune God
2023–2024 Sin and Salvation
2024–2025 Prayer
2025–2026 God’s Promises

2020–2021: The Wisdom of God

I. God alone is the source of wisdom.
A. Wisdom is with God (Job 12:12–13).
With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding. With him is wisdom and strength,
he hath counsel and understanding.
B. By wisdom God founded the earth (Proverbs 3:19).
The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.
C. God’s wisdom is beyond man’s understanding (Romans 11:33–34).
O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his
judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath
been his counsellor?
D. The wisdom of God is personified in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:23–24).
But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But
unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
E. God’s wisdom, salvation in Christ, was a mystery before its revelation (1 Corinthians 2:7–8).
But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before
the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they
would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
F. God’s Word gives wisdom (Psalm 119:130).
The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
G. God’s wisdom is perfect and easily entreated (James 3:17).
But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full
of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
H. God’s wisdom will prevail over man’s wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:27–29).
But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the
weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and
things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things
that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence.
II. God grants His wisdom to man beginning at salvation and continuing as the Christian seeks it.
A. Man must reject the world’s wisdom and believe God’s wisdom at salvation (1 Corinthians 1:20–21).
Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made
foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not
God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

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B. Wisdom has been revealed to man through the Scriptures by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:13;
2 Timothy 3:16).
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy
Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction,
for instruction in righteousness:
C. Wisdom begins with fearing the Lord and departing from evil (Psalm 111:10; Job 28:28).
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his
commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is
understanding.
D. Wisdom comes from seeking God (Proverbs 28:5).
Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things.
E. Wisdom comes from desiring and seeking it (Proverbs 18:1).
Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
F. It is God’s will that the Christian be filled with wisdom (Colossians 1:9–10).
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye
might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might
walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the
knowledge of God;
G. Wisdom should be the principal goal in the life of the Christian (Proverbs 4:7).
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
H. Wisdom may be petitioned from God (James 1:5).
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and
it shall be given him.
I. Wisdom is gained from hearing and receiving instruction (Proverbs 19:20).
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
J. Wisdom proceeds from the Christian’s heart to his speech (Proverbs 16:23).
The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.
K. Wisdom can be forsaken (Proverbs 4:13).
Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.
III. True wisdom does not exist apart from God.
A. Wisdom is not found in human existence (Job 28:12–13).
But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding? Man knoweth not the
price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.
B. Wisdom of this world is foolishness to God (1 Corinthians 3:19).
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own
craftiness.
C. The natural man cannot discern God’s wisdom (1 Corinthians 2:14).
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him:
neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
D. God’s plan of salvation is foolish in the eyes of man (1 Corinthians 1:18).
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the
power of God.

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E. The reasonings of the worldly wise are vain (1 Corinthians 3:20).

And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.
F. Wisdom is not synonymous with importance or age (Job 32:9).
Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.
G. Wisdom apart from God increases grief (Ecclesiastes 1:18).
For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.
H. Man’s wisdom can pervert him (Isaiah 47:10).
For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness: thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy wisdom and thy
knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thine heart, I am, and none else beside me.
I. Wisdom apart from God will not stand (Proverbs 21:30).
There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.
J. Wisdom in one’s own eyes brings woe (Isaiah 5:21).
Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!
K. Man’s wisdom ends in death (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25).
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
IV. Wisdom is a God-given possession that shapes a joyous, righteous life.
A. Wisdom is a preserver of life (Proverbs 2:10–11).
When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall
preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:
B. Wisdom is peace (Proverbs 3:17).
Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.
C. Wisdom is strength (Proverbs 24:5).
A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.
D. Wisdom is stability (Isaiah 33:6).
And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of
the LORD is his treasure.
E. Wisdom is a defense (Ecclesiastes 7:12).
For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom
giveth life to them that have it.
F Wisdom is a guide (Ecclesiastes 10:10).
If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is
profitable to direct.
G. Wisdom is obedience (Matthew 7:24).
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise
man, which built his house upon a rock:
H. Wisdom is more valuable than wealth (Proverbs 8:10–11).
Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. For wisdom is better
than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.
I. Wisdom is sweet to the soul (Proverbs 24:13–14).
My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste: So shall
the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward,
and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

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J. Wisdom is sincere, yet practical (Matthew 10:16).

Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and
harmless as doves.
K. Wisdom is winning souls (Daniel 12:3; Proverbs 11:30).
And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to
righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
L. Wisdom is living as an example of Christ to the unsaved (Colossians 4:5).
Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
M. Wisdom is using our life and time to bring honor to God (Ephesians 5:15–17).
See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days
are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
N. Wisdom is exercising discernment between good and evil, good and better (Philippians 1:9–10;
Hebrews 5:14).
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That
ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of
Christ;
But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their
senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
O. Wisdom glories only in the Lord (Jeremiah 9:23–24).
Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his
might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he
understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and
righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.
P. Wisdom seeks counsel (Proverbs 1:5).
A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise
counsels:
Q. Wisdom accepts reproof (Proverbs 17:10).
A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.
R. Wisdom teaches self-control (Proverbs 11:12).
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.
S. Wisdom teaches the foolishness of mischief (Proverbs 10:23).
It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.
T. Wisdom teaches that humility comes before honor (Proverbs 15:33).
The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
U. Wisdom teaches the principle of saving (Proverbs 21:20).
There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.
V. Wisdom receives commendation (Proverbs 12:8).
A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be
despised.

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W. Wisdom promotes health and long life (Proverbs 4:20–22; Proverbs 9:10–11).
My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes;
keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all
their flesh.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. For
by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.
X. Wisdom gains favor (Proverbs 13:14–15).
The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death. Good understanding
giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.
Y. Wisdom establishes and furnishes the Christian home (Proverbs 24:3–4).
Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established: And by knowledge shall
the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
Z. Wisdom values eternity (Psalm 90:12).
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

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2021–2022: Soul-Winning
I. The worth of a soul
A. A soul is worth more than the entire world (Matthew 16:26).
For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a
man give in exchange for his soul?
B. A soul is worth God’s long-suffering (2 Peter 3:9).
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to
us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
C. A soul is worth God’s love (1 John 4:10).
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for
our sins.
D. A soul is worth Christ’s sacrificial death (1 Peter 2:24).
Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live
unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
E. A soul is worth Christ’s humility (Philippians 2:5–8).
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not
robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a
servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled
himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
II. Separation of the soul from God by sin
A. Man’s nature is sinful (Romans 5:12–14).
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all
men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when
there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not
sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
B. All mankind has committed sinful acts (Romans 3:23).
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
C. Sin separates man from God (Isaiah 59:2).
But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from
you, that he will not hear.
D. Separation from God is darkness (1 Peter 2:9).
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should
shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
E. Separation from God is spiritual death (John 5:24).
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath
everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
III. Physical and spiritual death for the unbelievers
A. Physical death is not the end of man’s existence (John 5:28–29).
Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have
done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
B. Judgment for sins occurs after physical death (Hebrews 9:27).
And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

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C. Hell is referred to as the second or spiritual death (Revelation 21:8).

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and
sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and
brimstone: which is the second death.
1. Jesus confirmed the reality of Hell (Luke 16:22–23).
And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom:
the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and
seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
2. Hell is a place of bodily punishment (Matthew 10:28).
And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which
is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
3. Hell is a place of fire (Mark 9:43–44).
And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having
two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth
not, and the fire is not quenched.
4. Hell is everlasting (Matthew 25:46).
And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
5. Hell is the punishment for not believing on Christ (John 3:36).
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see
life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
IV. Physical death and spiritual life for the believer
A. Physical death for the believer is termed “sleep” (1 Thessalonians 4:13–15).
But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow
not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so
them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the
Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which
are asleep.
B. Physical death for the believer is merely absence from the body (2 Corinthians 5:6–8).
Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent
from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be
absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
C. The believer shall never experience spiritual death or separation from God (John 11:25–26).
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead,
yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
D. Eternal life for the believer is both physical and spiritual (1 Corinthians 15:42–44).
So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in
dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it
is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.
E. Eternal life is the believer’s possession now (1 John 5:11–13).
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the
Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you
that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye
may believe on the name of the Son of God.

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F.Eternal life will be spent with God (John 14:1–6).

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many
mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and
prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye
may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know
not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth,
and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
V. The imperative of soul-winning
A. Death is certain (Psalm 89:48).
What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death? shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the
grave? Selah.
B. Judgment is certain (Romans 2:5–9).
But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of
wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to
his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and
immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey
unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth
evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;
C. A man’s earthly future is uncertain (Proverbs 27:1).
Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.
D. Earthly life is uncertain (James 4:14).
Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that
appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
E. We know the terror of the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:11).
Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God;
and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
F. Christ, our Example, came to win souls (Luke 19:10).
For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
G. Christ commands us to win souls (Matthew 28:19–20).
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and
of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I
am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
H. To obey Christ’s command is our duty and not our choice (Luke 17:10).
So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are
unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.
I. Christ’s love constrains us (2 Corinthians 5:14–15).
For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all
dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but
unto him which died for them, and rose again.
J. Our love for others should compel us (Mark 12:30–31).
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind,
and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou
shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

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K. We are responsible to the lost about us (Romans 1:14).

I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.
L. It is a sin not to win souls (James 4:17).
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
VI. Attributes of the soul-winner
A. The soul-winner is saved (John 15:5).
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much
fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
B. The soul-winner is faithful in prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Pray without ceasing.
C. The soul-winner’s life evidences truth and righteousness (Ephesians 5:8–10).
For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the
fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the
Lord.
D. The soul-winner exercises wisdom (Colossians 4:5).
Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
E. The soul-winner lives in readiness (1 Peter 3:15).
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that
asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
F. The soul-winner daily dies to self (Luke 9:23).
And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross
daily, and follow me.
G. The soul-winner lives a separated life (1 Thessalonians 5:22).
Abstain from all appearance of evil.
H. The soul-winner practices faith in God’s goodness (Matthew 7:11).
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your
Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
I. The soul-winner realizes he is but a messenger (Matthew 10:20).
For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.
J. The soul-winner is filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
K. The soul-winner faithfully reads and studies the Bible (2 Timothy 2:15).
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly
dividing the word of truth.
L. The soul-winner has been obedient to believer’s baptism and church membership (Acts 2:41, 47).
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto
them about three thousand souls.
Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as
should be saved.
M. The soul-winner practices faithful church attendance (Hebrews 10:25).
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one
another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

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VII. The plan of salvation

A. We must acknowledge that we are all sinners (Romans 3:10).
As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
B. We must acknowledge that we can do nothing about our sinful condition (Isaiah 64:6).
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as
a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
C. The penalty for sin is death (Romans 6:23).
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
D. Jesus paid the penalty for our sin (Romans 5:8).
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
E. Salvation is a gift, nothing we can earn (Ephesians 2:8–9).
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works,
lest any man should boast.
F. Each person must appropriate God’s forgiveness by an act of faith in Christ (Romans 10:9–10).
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God
hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto
righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

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2022–2023: The Triune God

I. God the Father
A. His nature
1. God is holy (Psalm 99:9).
Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at his holy hill; for the LORD our God is holy.
2. God is just (Isaiah 45:21).
Tell ye, and bring them near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from
ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I the LORD? and there is no God else
beside me; a just God and a Saviour; there is none beside me.
3. God is love (1 John 4:16).
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth
in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
4. God is good (Psalm 118:29).
O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
5. God is merciful (Psalm 100:5).
For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
6. God is long-suffering (2 Peter 3:9).
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering
to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
7. God is unchanging (Malachi 3:6).
For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.
8. God is incorruptible (Romans 1:23).
And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and
to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
9. God is faithful (1 Corinthians 10:13).
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will
not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a
way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
10. God is true (John 7:28).
Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am:
and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.
11. God is jealous (Exodus 34:14).
For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God:
B. His attributes
1. God is invisible, a spirit (John 4:24).
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
2. God is a distinct being (Exodus 3:14).
And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of
Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
3. God is eternal (Deuteronomy 33:27).
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out
the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them.

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4. God is immortal (1 Timothy 1:17).

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever
and ever. Amen.
5. God is light (1 John 1:5).
This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light,
and in him is no darkness at all.
6. God is life (John 5:26).
For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
7. God is glorious (Exodus 15:11).
Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in
praises, doing wonders?
8. God is unique (Isaiah 45:5).
I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast
not known me:
9. God is personal (Romans 8:15).
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of
adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
10. God is omniscient (1 John 3:20).
For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
11. God is omnipresent (Jeremiah 23:24).
Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven
and earth? saith the LORD.
12. God is omnipotent (Revelation 19:6).
And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the
voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.
13. God is a trinity with three personalities (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14).
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost:
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost,
be with you all. Amen.
II. God the Son
A. His nature
1. Jesus Christ is God incarnate (Colossians 1:13–15; John 8:58).
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of
his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who
is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
2. Jesus Christ is one with the Father (John 10:30).
I and my Father are one.
3. Jesus Christ was virgin-born (Matthew 1:23).
Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name
Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

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4. Jesus Christ was man (Hebrews 2:14).

Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took
part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is,
the devil;
5. Jesus Christ was sinless (Hebrews 4:15).
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but
was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
6. Jesus Christ’s love is characterized by its greatness (John 15:13).
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
7. Jesus Christ was obedient to the Father (John 4:34).
Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.
8. Jesus Christ was humble (Philippians 2:8).
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death,
even the death of the cross.
9. Jesus Christ is truth (John 14:6).
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but
by me.
10. Jesus Christ is life (John 11:25).
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live:
11. Jesus Christ is changeless (Hebrews 13:8).
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
B. His ministry
1. Jesus Christ is the creator (John 1:3).
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
2. Jesus Christ is the Word, the expression of God’s being (John 1:14).
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the
only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
3. Jesus Christ came to fulfill the Law (Matthew 5:17).
Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to
fulfil.
4. Jesus Christ is the Saviour (Titus 2:13).
Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus
Christ;
5. Jesus Christ was the substitutionary lamb, the Atonement (John 1:29).
The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh
away the sin of the world.
6. Jesus Christ is the mediator (1 Timothy 2:5).
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
7. Jesus Christ is our intercessor (Hebrews 7:25).
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he
ever liveth to make intercession for them.

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8. Jesus Christ is our High Priest (Hebrews 8:1).

Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set
on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;
9. Jesus Christ is the judge (John 5:22).
For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:
10. Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him
endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
III. God the Holy Spirit
A. His nature
1. The Holy Spirit is God (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
2. The Spirit of God is holy (Ephesians 4:30).
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
B. His ministry
1. The Holy Spirit imparts life (Job 33:4).
The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.
2. The Holy Spirit convicts of sin (John 16:8).
And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
3. The Holy Spirit is the author of the new birth (John 3:5; Titus 3:5).
Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he
cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by
the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
4. The Holy Spirit indwells every Christian (Romans 8:9).
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any
man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
5. Through the Holy Spirit we are baptized into the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13).
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we
be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
6. The Holy Spirit is the proof of our salvation (Romans 8:16).
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
7. The Holy Spirit is the seal or bond of our eternal salvation (Ephesians 1:13; 2 Corinthians 1:22).
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in
whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
8. The Holy Spirit leads the Christian (Romans 8:14).
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
9. The Holy Spirit comforts the Christian (John 14:16).
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you
for ever;
10. The Holy Spirit teaches the Christian (John 14:26).
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall
teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

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11. The Holy Spirit is our indwelling intercessor (Romans 8:27).

And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh
intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
12. The Holy Spirit glorifies Christ (John 16:14).
He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
13. The Holy Spirit inspired Scripture (2 Peter 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:16).
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they
were moved by the Holy Ghost.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness:
14. The Holy Spirit bestows spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4, 11).
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
15. The Holy Spirit controls the submissive Christian (Ephesians 5:18).
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
16. The Holy Spirit produces fruit in the Christian (Galatians 5:22–23).
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness,
temperance: against such there is no law.

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2023–2024: Sin and Salvation

I. Sin is defined Scripturally.
A. Sin is “missing the mark” or a failure to meet God’s standards (Romans 3:23; James 4:17).
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
B. Sin is transgression of God’s law (1 John 3:4).
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.
C. Sin is committed against God (Psalm 51:4).
Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified
when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
II. Sin originated in the angelic realm.
A. The Devil (Lucifer) committed sin (1 John 3:8).
He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the
Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
B. Other angels committed sin (2 Peter 2:4).
For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into
chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;
III. Sin spread to the human race.
A. The Devil (Satan) was the chief agent in the Fall of Man (2 Corinthians 11:3).
But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should
be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.
B. Sin entered the world through Adam (Romans 5:12).
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all
men, for that all have sinned:
C. The sinful nature is transmitted to all Adam’s posterity, with the exception of Christ
(Romans 5:19; 1 John 1:8).
For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many
be made righteous.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
D. Sin is perpetuated by mankind because his heart is evil (Jeremiah 17:9; Matthew 15:19).
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness,
blasphemies:
IV. Sin is damaging and degrading to mankind.
A. Man’s sinful nature has placed him in a state of spiritual death (Ephesians 2:1).
And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
B. Sin creates guilt and unrest in man (Isaiah 57:20–21).
But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.
There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.
C. The sin of one generation affects its posterity (Exodus 20:5).
Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God,
visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that
hate me;

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D. Man is in bondage to sin and cannot free himself (John 8:34).

Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
E. Sin keeps man in spiritual darkness (John 8:12).
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not
walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
F. Sin makes man at enmity against God (Romans 8:7).
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed
can be.
G. Man’s sin repays him with wickedness (Isaiah 3:11; Proverbs 13:2).
Woe unto the wicked! it shall be ill with him: for the reward of his hands shall be given him.
A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.
H. Sin afflicts mankind with pain and anguish (Job 14:1).
Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.
I. Sin brings death which is inescapable outside Christ (James 1:15).
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
1. The first death is physical, bodily (Hebrews 9:27).
And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
2. The second death is spiritual, eternal separation from God, Who is Life (Revelation 21:8).
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and
sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and
brimstone: which is the second death.
V. Sin and the holiness of God are irreconcilable.
A. God is righteous (Psalm 119:137).
Righteous art thou, O LORD, and upright are thy judgments.
B. God abhors sin (Psalm 5:4–6).
For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee. The foolish
shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest all workers of iniquity. Thou shalt destroy them that speak
leasing: the LORD will abhor the bloody and deceitful man.
C. God knows our sins (Psalm 69:5).
O God, thou knowest my foolishness; and my sins are not hid from thee.
D. Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:1–2).
Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot
hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face
from you, that he will not hear.
E. God judges sin (Ecclesiastes 12:14).
For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or
whether it be evil.
F. God’s judgment is according to truth (Romans 2:2).
But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such
things.
G. The Law was given to condemn man’s sins and to show his need for Christ (Galatians 3:24).
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

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H. God will not tolerate sin or defilement in Heaven (Revelation 21:27).

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh
abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
VI. Salvation from sin and death is impossible apart from God’s plan.
A. Old Testament sacrifices could not take away sin (Hebrews 10:4).
For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
B. The Law cannot give righteousness and life (Galatians 3:21–22).
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which
could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath
concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
C. Works cannot give righteousness and life (Isaiah 64:6).
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as
a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
D. No person or god can provide salvation (Acts 4:12).
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men,
whereby we must be saved.
E. Grace, unmerited favor, came by Jesus Christ (John 1:17).
For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
VII. Salvation from sin and death is made possible by God’s plan.
A. Jesus Christ is God Incarnate, sent to redeem us (Galatians 4:4–5).
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under
the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.
1. The shedding of Christ’s blood was necessary for the remission or forgiveness of sins
(Hebrews 9:22).
And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no
remission.
a. Our sins were imputed or reckoned to Christ’s account (1 Peter 2:24).
Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins,
should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
b. Christ was the propitiation or satisfaction for the sins of the world (1 John 2:2).
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the
whole world.
c. Christ was our substitute on the cross, and now His righteousness has been imputed to us
(2 Corinthians 5:21).
For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the
righteousness of God in him.
d. Christ’s death reconciles man to God (Romans 5:10).
For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much
more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
e. We are justified or declared righteous through faith in Christ’s redemptive work
(Romans 5:1).
Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

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f. God has removed our sins from us (Psalm 103:12; John 1:29).
As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which
taketh away the sin of the world.
g. God will never remember our sins (Hebrews 10:17).
And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
h. Condemnation for our sins is no longer possible (Romans 8:1).
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not
after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
2. Christ’s resurrection proved that He is God, with power over death (John 11:25).
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were
dead, yet shall he live:
a. Christ’s resurrection was necessary for proof of forgiveness and justification
(Romans 4:24–25).
But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our
Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our
justification.
b. Christ’s resurrection proves that the saved shall also rise (1 Corinthians 15:20, 23).
But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.
But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his
coming.
B. Conversion is a sinner’s turning from his sin toward God (Acts 3:19).
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of
refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
1. A sinner must repent of his sins (Luke 5:32).
I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
2. A sinner must have faith, or personal trust, in Christ’s finished work on the cross (John 1:12;
Romans 10:9).
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them
that believe on his name:
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God
hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
3. While the sinner must exercise repentance and faith by his own will, it is God who leads him to
both (Romans 2:4; Ephesians 2:8).
Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing
that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
C. Regeneration is being “born again” at conversion, and it is accomplished by God (Titus 3:5).
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the
washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
D. Salvation is a gift imparted at conversion (Romans 10:10, 13).
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto
salvation.
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

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1. We are saved from the bondage which makes us continue to sin (1 John 3:9).
Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin,
because he is born of God.
2. We are saved from sin’s penalty and are given eternal life (John 3:36).
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see
life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
3. The completion of our salvation will be the sinless glorification of our bodies
(Philippians 3:20–21).
For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus
Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body,
according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
E. At salvation, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit as security and indwelt by Him until our final
redemption (Ephesians 1:13; 1 Corinthians 6:19).
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom
also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of
God, and ye are not your own?
F. At salvation, we are sanctified or set apart in God’s eyes from the unsaved world (Hebrews 10:10).
By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
G. At salvation, Christ’s intercession for us with the Father begins (Hebrews 7:25).
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever
liveth to make intercession for them.

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2024–2025: Prayer
I. Prayer is verbal expression of our feelings and needs to God.
A. We pray directly to God (Psalm 5:2).
Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray.
1. We are to pray with humility (Psalm 10:17).
LORD, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause
thine ear to hear:
2. We are to pray in Jesus’ name (John 16:23).
And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the
Father in my name, he will give it you.
3. We are to pray in the Holy Spirit (Jude 20–21).
But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep
yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
4. We are to pray truthfully (Psalm 145:18).
The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.
5. We are to pray boldly (Hebrews 10:19–22).
Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new
and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; And
having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance
of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure
water.
6. We are to pray confidently (1 John 5:14).
And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he
heareth us:
7. We are to pray about matters persistently, importunately, without shame (Luke 11:8–10).
I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his
importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall
be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that
asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
B. We are to pray from the heart, expressing our feelings and thoughts (Psalm 62:8).
Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
1. Prayer may be audible (Psalm 77:1).
I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me.
2. Prayer may be silent because God knows the heart and its thoughts (1 Chronicles 28:9).
And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart
and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the
imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him,
he will cast thee off for ever.
C. We are to pray concerning everything (Philippians 4:6).
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your
requests be made known unto God.

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1. Prayer is adoration, expressing praise and thanksgiving (Hebrews 13:15).

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips
giving thanks to his name.
2. Prayer is supplication, expressing a petition for mercy (Psalm 55:1).
Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication.
a. We are to confess our sins and seek forgiveness (Matthew 6:12; 1 John 1:9).
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness.
b. We are to express our needs (Matthew 6:11).
Give us this day our daily bread.
c. We are to express our desires (Psalm 37:4).
Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
3. Prayer is intercession, pleading another’s cause (Romans 15:30).
Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that
ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;
a. We are to pray for all men (1 Timothy 2:1).
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks,
be made for all men;
b. We are to pray for kings and all in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all
godliness and honesty.
c. We are to pray for our persecutors (Matthew 5:44).
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate
you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
d. We are to pray for fellow believers (Ephesians 6:18).
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all
perseverance and supplication for all saints;
e. We are to pray for the sick (James 5:14–15).
Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him,
anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick,
and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
f. We are to pray for the ministers of the Gospel (2 Thessalonians 3:1–2).
Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be
glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and
wicked men: for all men have not faith.
II. The Bible clearly states who may pray.
A. Only believers may pray with the assurance that they are heard by God (John 9:31).
Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his
will, him he heareth.

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B. The prayer for salvation from anyone will be heard by God (Romans 10:9–10, 13).
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God
hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto
righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
C. All believers share the privilege of prayer. (Matthew 6:6; 1 Timothy 2:8).
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy
Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
D. The Bible teaches that Christ continues to intercede for believers (Hebrews 7:25).
Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever
liveth to make intercession for them.
E. The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit also intercedes for us (Romans 8:26).
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought:
but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
III. It is wrong for the Christian to fail to pray.
A. Prayer is commanded (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Pray without ceasing.
B. Prayer is pleasing to God (Psalm 141:2).
Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening
sacrifice.
C. We will not have if we do not ask (James 4:2).
Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not,
because ye ask not.
IV. The Bible teaches us when to pray.
A. The believer’s heart is to remain in an attitude of continuing prayer and gratitude to God
(Romans 12:12; Ephesians 5:20).
Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
1. We are to pray at all times (Luke 18:1).
And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
2. We are to pray day and night (Psalm 88:1).
O LORD God of my salvation, I have cried day and night before thee:
B. We are to pray in thankfulness before eating, as exemplified by Christ (Mark 8:6; 1 Timothy 4:4–5).
And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave
thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the
people.
For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it
is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
C. We are to pray in times of trouble (Psalm 86:6–7).
Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my
trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.

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D. We are to pray in times of need (Hebrews 4:16).

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to
help in time of need.
E. We are to pray in times of affliction (James 5:13).
Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
F. We are to pray when fearful (Psalm 55:5, 16).
Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.
As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me.
G. We are to pray for restored fellowship after confession of sin (Psalm 51:10, 12).
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
V. Answers to prayer may take different forms.
A. God has promised to answer requests made in His will (1 John 5:14–15).
And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he
heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions
that we desired of him.
B. God may answer prayer above our expectations (Ephesians 3:20).
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the
power that worketh in us,
C. God may answer prayer directly and immediately (Matthew 7:7–11).
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For
every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be
opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask
a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your
children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
D. God may delay an answer to prayer (Luke 18:7).
And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with
them?
E. God may answer a prayer differently from our request (2 Corinthians 12:7–9).
And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was
given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above
measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto
me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly
therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
VI. There are hindrances to answers to prayer which the believer must avoid.
A. God will not answer if there is unconfessed sin in the heart (Psalm 66:18).
If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:
B. God will not answer prayer if the motive is wrong or selfish (James 4:3).
Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
C. God will not answer prayer if it is not made in faith (Matthew 21:22).
And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

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D. God will not answer prayer from an unforgiving heart (Mark 11:25–26).
And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in
heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in
heaven forgive your trespasses.
E. God will not answer prayer made without regard to his will (Matthew 6:10).
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
F. God will not answer prayer from an unthankful heart (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
G. God will not answer prayer from a disobedient heart (1 John 3:20–22).
For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our
heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of
him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
H. God will not answer prayer from an ungiving heart (Luke 6:38).
Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running
over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be
measured to you again.
I. God will not answer prayer from a heart which is not abiding in Him (John 15:7).
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
J. God will not answer prayer from the partners in an inharmonious marriage relationship
(1 Peter 3:1, 7).
Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also
may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto
the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

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2025–2026: God’s Promises

I. God has expressed His promises in clear, simple language.
A. God’s promises are recorded in the Scriptures (Romans 1:2).
(Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)
B. God’s promises are backed by His faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:9).
Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and
mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;
C. God has confirmed His faithfulness by an oath (Hebrews 6:17–18).
Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his
counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to
lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set
before us:
D. God’s promises are to motivate His children to duty and holiness (2 Corinthians 6:17–18; 7:1).
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the
unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and
daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the
flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
E. Although not all promises are made to the Christian, all are for our edification (Romans 15:4).
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through
patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
F. God’s promises have been confirmed and fulfilled in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:19–20).
For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and
Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea. For all the promises of God in him are yea, and
in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.
G. Man does not know God’s timetable for the fulfillment of His promises (2 Peter 3:9).
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to
us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
H. God’s promises are obtained or possessed through faith (Romans 4:16; Hebrews 6:12).
Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed;
not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the
father of us all,
That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
II. Scripture describes God’s promises in several terms.
A. God’s promise is called good (1 Kings 8:56).
Blessed be the LORD, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised:
there hath not failed one word of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moses his
servant.
B. God’s promise is called holy (Psalm 105:42).
For he remembered his holy promise, and Abraham his servant.
C. God’s promises are called great and precious (2 Peter 1:4).
Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be
partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

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III. God has given promises concerning the physical welfare of His children.
A. God has promised longer life for obedience to Him (Proverbs 3:1–2).
My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long
life, and peace, shall they add to thee.
B. God has promised longer life for honoring parents (Ephesians 6:2–3).
Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well
with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
C. God has promised peace and comfort in fear (John 14:27; Philippians 4:7).
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not
your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through
Christ Jesus.
D. God has promised help in illness (Psalm 41:3).
The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.
E. God has promised the rest of sweet sleep (Proverbs 3:24).
When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.
F. God has promised both afflictions and delivery in those afflictions (1 Thessalonians 3:3; Psalm 50:15).
That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed
thereunto.
And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.
G. God has promised to dry our tears (Revelation 7:17).
For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living
fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
H. God has promised renewal of strength (Isaiah 40:31).
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as
eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
I. God has promised that nothing shall happen by chance (Proverbs 16:33).
The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.
J. God has promised children as His heritage (Psalm 127:3).
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
K. God has promised a blessed home life (Proverbs 3:33).
The curse of the LORD is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just.
L. God has promised preservation of orphans and widows (Jeremiah 49:11).
Leave thy fatherless children, I will preserve them alive; and let thy widows trust in me.
M. God has promised blessings upon the children of godly parents (Psalm 112:1–2; Proverbs 20:7).
Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his
commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.
The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.
N. God has promised our basic needs of food, drink, and clothing (Matthew 6:31–32).
Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall
we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth
that ye have need of all these things.

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O. God has promised to meet our every need (Philippians 4:19; Matthew 6:33).
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto
you.
IV. God has given spiritual promises to those who are saved.
A. God has promised abundant life (John 10:10).
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life,
and that they might have it more abundantly.
B. God has promised eternal life (1 John 2:25).
And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
C. God has promised the indwelling Holy Spirit as the earnest or pledge of His salvation
(2 Corinthians 1:22).
Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
D. God has promised His eternal presence (Hebrews 13:5).
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he
hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
E. God has promised that He is slow to anger and merciful (Psalm 103:8).
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
F. God has promised to forget only one thing: our sins (Hebrews 10:17).
And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
G. God has promised salvation from His wrath (Romans 5:9).
Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
H. God has promised us sonship (Galatians 4:6–7; John 1:12).
And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba,
Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through
Christ.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that
believe on his name:
I. God has promised that we will be His heirs (Galatians 3:29).
And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
J. God has promised the advocacy of Jesus Christ (1 John 2:1).
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an
advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
K. God has promised that He will never change (James 1:17).
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with
whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
L. God has promised to hear and answer our prayers (1 John 5:14–15).
And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he
heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions
that we desired of him.
M. God has promised us victory over spiritual foes (Romans 8:37).
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

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N. God has promised us angelic protection and care (Psalm 34:7; Hebrews 1:14).
The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.
Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
O. God has promised that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38–39).
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things
present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate
us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
P. God has promised His enabling to do His calling (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
Q. God has promised rewards for our work (Revelation 22:12).
And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall
be.
R. God has promised that we shall bear life’s burdens with His help (Galatians 6:5; Psalm 55:22).
For every man shall bear his own burden.
Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be
moved.
S. God has promised us chastisement for disobedience for our profit (Hebrews 12:6, 11).
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it
yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
T. God has promised never to test us beyond our endurance (1 Corinthians 10:13).
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not
suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to
escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
U. God has promised a spiritual harvest after labor (Galatians 6:9).
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
V. God has promised that He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
W. God has promised us courage (2 Timothy 1:7).
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
X. God has promised wisdom if we ask (James 1:5).
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and
it shall be given him.
Y. God has promised victory over death (1 Corinthians 15:54–57).
So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on
immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength
of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
V. God has given promises concerning eternity to the Christian.
A. God has promised us an eternal home in heaven (1 Peter 1:3–4).
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath
begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an
inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

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B. God has promised that Christ will return for His own (John 14:3).
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I
am, there ye may be also.
C. God has promised to those who die before Christ’s return that the soul will have immediate entrance
into heaven after death (2 Corinthians 5:8).
We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the
Lord.
D. God has promised that, at Christ’s return for His own, the dead in Christ will be bodily resurrected
(1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and
with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall
be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be
with the Lord.
E. God has promised that, whether still living or resurrected, we all shall be changed to immortal beings
(1 Corinthians 15:51–52).
Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the
twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised
incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
F. God has promised that we shall be like Christ (1 John 3:2).
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that,
when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
G. God has promised that we must appear before the Judgment Seat for reward or loss for our earthly
works (1 Corinthians 3:13–15).
Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by
fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath
built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but
he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
H. God has promised that heaven will be sinless (Revelation 21:27).
And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh
abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
I. God has promised that there shall be no night in heaven (Revelation 22:5).
And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God
giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
J. God has promised that there will be neither pain nor sorrow in heaven (Revelation 21:4).
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow,
nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
K. God has promised to dwell with His people for eternity (Revelation 21:3).
And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will
dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

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Appendix: Debate

Time Limits
1st Aff. Constructive speech 8 minutes
1st Aff. is questioned by Neg. speaker 3 minutes

1st Neg. Constructive speech 8 minutes

1st Neg. is questioned by Aff. speaker 3 minutes

2nd Aff. Constructive speech 8 minutes

2nd Aff. is questioned by the other Neg. speaker 3 minutes

2nd Neg. Constructive speech 8 minutes

2nd Neg. is questioned by the other Aff. speaker 3 minutes

1st Neg. Rebuttal 5 minutes

1st Aff. Rebuttal 5 minutes
2nd Neg. Rebuttal 5 minutes
2nd Aff. Rebuttal 5 minutes

Debate Prep Time (per team) 5 minutes

Procedure
Debate Procedure: Each speaker shall have eight minutes for constructive argument, alternating affirmative to
negative. Following each constructive speech, one opponent shall cross-examine the speaker for three
minutes. The questioner shall control the use of the time and may interrupt the respondent, but may not
comment on the answers or make any statement of his/her own views. Each debater shall question one
opponent. Following the four constructive speeches and questioning, each speaker shall have five minutes for
rebuttal, alternating negative to affirmative.

Tournament Procedure: Each team will participate in preliminary rounds. The four teams with the best
records (wins) in the preliminary rounds will be named as semifinalists. If there is a tie between two or more
teams in the number of wins, the team(s) with the highest total of speaker points will be named as a
semifinalist. Three judge panels will judge every round.

Timing
At the expiration of time, the timekeeper shall stand and remain standing for the judges to note the overtime,
but that shall not disqualify the debater.

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Cross-Examination
Cross-examination is more than the art of debate. All the essential elements of good debate are necessary: A
strong case, good adaptation to the audience, adequate evidence, and skillful delivery. Good cross-
examination demands, in addition, a quick wit and facile tongue.

General
1. Purpose of Cross-Examination: To clarify an obscure point in an opponent’s case, to expose factual error
or unsupported assertion, or to obtain damaging admissions are the purposes of cross-examination. It
should not be used (as it is in law) to attack the witness’ personal integrity.
2. Attitudes of Questioner and Witness: Both should appear to be reasonable, cooperative, and eager to
please. Either one should be marked down for unpalatable sarcasm, obvious stalling, or appearing to
browbeat his opponent.
3. Relation to Case: The virtue of a cross-examination decreases unless the results are tied to later speeches.
The cross-examination should be an integral part of the debate, not a sideshow.
4. Delivery: Both speakers must talk to the audience. Cross-examination takes the form of an exchange
between two debaters, but basically, it is for the benefit of the listeners. In public debates it is vital that
both speakers face the audience while questioning or responding.

The Questioner
1. Controls the time, and may interrupt the witness to request shorter or more direct answers, or to indicate
that the answer he has given is insufficient.
2. Must ask fair and relevant questions. He should neither comment on the answers, argue with the witness,
nor make speeches. He should use his time for questioning alone, not for either constructive argument or
summary. In fact, a conclusion is all the more effective if the audience reaches it without the questioner’s
help.
3. Should have considerable scope in the questions he asks. Since the time is his, he may waste time if he
wants to. The witness should answer even if the significance or relevance of the question is not
immediately apparent to him.
4. Should begin with common ground on which agreement may be expected, and proceed to areas in which
disagreement develops or the witness makes significant admissions. The questioner may well begin with
the questions which reveal his purpose: “Do you maintain that the Nationalist Chinese Army stands as a
bulwark against Communism in Asia?” “Yes.” “And do you further maintain that recognition of Red China
would weaken or destroy this bulwark?” “Yes.” Agreement on such questions is almost certain, and the
questioner clearly indicates the direction of his inquiry.
5. Should develop his attack along the lines of his basic case. He should limit the number of objectives he
tries to reach. A series of at least five questions, probing a single issue of the debate thoroughly and
following up the leads which the witness’ answers provide, is preferable to a miscellaneous assortment of
questions lacking interrelation and adaptation to the witness’ answers.
6. May not insist on a simple “yes” or “no” answer unless his question is simple, direct, and factual.
Questions about why something is true are necessarily complicated and the questioner cannot expect the
witness to answer them briefly. Factual questions are best, and the questioner can ask them in enough
different ways to lend variety to the cross-examination.

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 National Competition Manual – Appendix: Debate

7. Should phrase questions with the verb first, then the subject, and finally the object or modifying phrase:
e.g. “Do you admit that Joseph R. McCarthy is the junior senator from Wisconsin?” He should avoid
negative questions or any phrasing with “not”: “Do you not know that there have been thirty-seven
violations of the Korean truce by the Red Chinese?” The answer to this can only be confusing.
8. May remind the audience and the witness of relevant fact by beginning the question: “Are you aware
that . . .” or “Are you familiar with . . .” However, the questioner’s motive in putting such questions should
be to put the witness on record concerning the statement involved, and not to present materials of his
own.
9. Should summarize a series of questions on an issue by repeating an opening question: “Do you still
consider, in light of these facts, that the Chinese Nationalist Army stands as a bulwark against Communism
in Asia?” This calls for a “yes” or “no” answer, clearly indicates the questioner has concluded that
particular approach, and allows the members of the audience to draw their own conclusions.

The Witness
1. Must answer directly and briefly any legitimate question. He should not question the questioner (except in
using a rhetorical question as an answer), nor should he engage in stalling tactics.
2. May refuse to answer a tricky or unfair question—“When did you stop beating your wife?”—if he states a
good reason for doing so.
3. May ask questions to clarify a question, possibly giving his reasons for considering the question obscure, or
may ask the questioner to stop making speeches and to continue his questioning.
4. May clarify a question, if to do so is appropriate. He should state the qualification before his answer. “Do
you believe in the desirability of democratic elections?” “For people educated in the tradition and practice
of democracy, yes.”
5. Can exercise some control over the question period by controlling the timing of his answers. If he feels that
the questioner is dragging out the question period, he can answer rapidly, exposing the questioner’s
ineptitude.
6. Should not be afraid to admit ignorance if the question demands knowledge of an obscure fact.
7. Must answer without consulting his colleague or receiving help from him.

Judging Guidelines
1. A decision is not to be based upon:
a. The merits of the question. The judge should not be influenced by prejudices in favor of or against the
proposition.
b. Partiality. The judge should not be influenced by the reputation of or show partially for or against
either of the competing teams, their schools, or coaches.
c. Preconceived notions on arguments. The judge should not allow his idea of what the best affirmative
or negative arguments or cases may be to influence his decision.
d. Personal preferences on debating style. A judge should not penalize a team if its style differs, either in
case construction or delivery, from that which he personally prefers; but the judge should evaluate all
styles on the basis of effectiveness in winning the conviction.
2. A decision should be based upon:
a. Skill in analysis. This includes not only the analysis of the proposition, but also analysis of the debate as
it progresses.
b. Use of evidence. This includes the use of sufficient evidence and proper reference to its source.

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 National Competition Manual – Appendix: Debate

c. Validity of argument. This includes reasoning and conclusions drawn from the evidence presented.
d. Clarity of organization. This includes clear outlining of constructive arguments and easily followed
handling of refutation.
e. Effectiveness of delivery. This includes all matters pertaining to oral presentation with special emphasis
upon extempore abilities.
2. A team should be penalized for:
a. An unfair interpretation. If the interpretation is disputed by the negative, it shall rest with the judge
whether or not the affirmative is supporting a tenable position.
b. Discourtesy toward opponents. Discourtesy should be penalized according to the seriousness of the
offense.
c. Falsification of evidence. If a team falsifies evidence in support of a point, it shall lose the point; and if
the falsification is obviously deliberate, the judge shall impose an additional penalty according to the
seriousness of the falsification.
d. Misconstruing an opponent’s arguments. A speaker who misconstrues an argument unintentionally
should not be penalized more than the time wasted. If it is intentional, the team should, in addition,
forfeit the argument.
e. Introducing new arguments into rebuttal. The judges shall disregard new arguments introduced in
rebuttal. This does not include the introduction of new evidence in support of points already advanced
or the answering of arguments introduced by opponents.
f. Speaking overtime. When a speaker’s time is up, the judge shall disregard anything beyond a closing
statement.

Additional Guidelines
1. Interpretation: Judges should regard no interpretation of the question as official, unless the National
Wording Committee issues an official interpretation and labels it as such.
2. Technicalities: The team shall debate the basic principles underlying the proposition. Too much emphasis
should not be placed upon a technicality.
3. Burden of proof: A debate team need not destroy all opposing argument. It need only show that the
preponderance of argument and evidence rests on its side.
4. Affirmative burden: An affirmative team need not destroy all negative argument. It need only show that
the preponderance of argument and evidence rests on its side. This holds true equally for the negative
team.
5. Questions: A team need answer questions only when they are shown to be pertinent and consequential to
the debate. During the questioning periods, the time belongs to the debater asking the questions. The
questions should be brief and the answers short and specific. The person answering the questions should
not be permitted to refute, but should be limited to simply answering the questions. The questioner
should not be permitted to comment on the answers.
6. Irrelevant arguments: Arguments as to whether the proposition is constitutional or whether it will be
adopted are irrelevant.
7. Direct clash: The negative team is primarily responsible for a direct clash, providing the affirmative team is
not evading the proposition. The affirmative team is responsible for a clash on arguments advanced by the
negative as evils in the proposition.
8. Delayed replies: An argument introduced in constructive cases should be replied to by the opponents in
time to give the team which advanced the argument an opportunity to reply.

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 National Competition Manual – Appendix: Debate

9. Adaptation: A high premium should be placed upon adaptive extempore debating. This should not excuse
a team for lack of clarity in organization or for errors in the use of English.
10. Persuasion: A premium should be placed upon the ability of the debaters to utilize human interest and
accepted premises. Fallacies committed in an attempt to gain persuasive power should be treated the
same as other fallacies.
11. Fallacies: A judge should not discredit an argument as fallacious, unless the fallacy is exposed by the
opposition, except in the closing affirmative rebuttal, when the judge shall discredit it upon discovering the
fallacy.
12. Constructive solution: Credit should be given to the team which most nearly approximates a constructive
solution to the problems.
13. Point of order: The negative team shall not be denied the right to rise to a point of order after the closing
affirmative rebuttal. However, if they argue the point instead of stating the point, they shall be heavily
penalized on the point. In this contingency, final disposition of the matter shall rest entirely with the judge.
In general, this practice is to be discouraged.

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2020 National Competition Manual

Judging Forms
 BIBLE
Bible Teaching

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Subject of Lesson ____________________________________ Title ______________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category}

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)

Appropriate to the age level

(Junior Age)

Outline of the lesson

well-organized

Maintained audience attention

throughout the lesson

Explained the Bible passage

clearly and accurately

Presented the lesson with

confidence and sincerity

Applied the lesson correctly

and forcefully

Creativity (and visuals if

utilized)

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (70 possible points) _________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor ______________________________________________
Judge’s Signature
©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 101
 BIBLE
Bible Preaching

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Subject of Lesson ____________________________________ Title ______________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Expository Evangelistic Topical (Check One)

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)

Introduction (leads appropriately into theme,

gains attention from the audience)

Theme (clear Scriptural theme established,

Content and Organization

sermon properly narrowed down)

Explanation/Interpretation (appropriate,
accurate explanation of Scripture and
principles presented)

Application/Illustration (forceful exhortation,

application, and illustration of Scriptural
truth presented)
Development (supporting points clearly and
logically develop theme, conclusion
consistent with theme and development,
written outline in proper format)

Vitality (“life” in face, body and voice)

Eye Contact, Empathy, Naturalness (direct

visual and mental contact with audience;
natural speech, without affectation or
artificial mannerisms)
Presentation

Poise/Authority (sense of composure,

assurance and authority)

Voice/Diction/Grammar (clearly audible,

words understandable, acceptable grammar)

Emphasis/Variety (stress on key ideas

through appropriate use of volume, pitch,
rate and climax)

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (100 possible points) ___________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor ______________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 102

 MUSIC
Vocal Solo

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Composition #1 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Composition #2 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Male Female (Check One)

POINTS POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS #1 COMMENTS #2
(4–10) (4–10)
Presentation
1. Poise
2. Communication
3. Facial Expression
4. Posture
5. Memorization

Technique
1. Breath
2. Diction
3. Tone
4. Vitality

Musicianship
1. Phrasing
2. Contrast Mood
3. Contrast Dynamics

Accuracy
1. Text
2. Rhythm
3. Pitch
4. Style (if period piece)

Selection
1. Words/music complementary
2. Difficulty
3. Appropriate for the voice
4. Appropriate for the occasion

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (100 possible points) ___________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor ______________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 103

 MUSIC
(Check Category)
Woodwind Solo Brass Solo

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Composition ________________________________________ Composer__________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category}

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)
Tone
1. Quality
2. Control
3. Intonation
4. Vibrato

Articulation
1. Attacks and Releases
2. Slurring
3. Note Accuracy
4. Rhythmic Accuracy

Interpretation
1. Tempo
2. Phrasing
3. Dynamics
4. Fluency

Musicianship (summary)
1. Correctness
2. Mood and Emotion
3. Artistry

Selection
1. Appropriateness
2. Difficulty

Presentation
1. Appearance
2. Poise
3. Stage Presence

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (60 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 104

 MUSIC
String Solo

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Composition ________________________________________ Composer__________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category}

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)

Intonation

Tone
1. Vibrato
2. Quality

Accuracy
1. Notes
2. Rhythm

Technique
1. Bowing
2. Left Hand
3. Posture
4. Articulation

Interpretation
1. Tempo
2. Phrasing
3. Dynamics

Selection
1. Appropriateness
2. Difficulty

Presentation
1. Appearance
2. Poise
3. Stage Presence

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (70 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 105

 MUSIC
Percussion Solo
Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________
School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________
Composition ________________________________________ Composer__________________________________________
Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category}

Snare Drum Solo Timpani Solo Mallet Percussion Multiple Percussion (Check One)

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)
Tone
1. Stick/Mallet Choice
2. Playing Area
3. Correct method and consistency of tone reproduction or
articulation
4. Head/Snare Tension
Accuracy
1. Correct Pitches
2. Correct Rhythms and Rests
3. Precision
4. Intonation (where applicable)
5. Correct Interpretation of Meter
6. Key Signature/Accidentals (where applicable)
Technique
1. Stick Control
2. Mechanics of hand/arm motion, grip/left hand, right hand
3. Attacks/Releases
4. Pedaling Execution (where applicable)
5. Rolls
6. Dampening
7. Posture
8. Instrument Height/Physical Set Up
9. Mastery of Rudiments—sticking patterns (where applicable)
Musicianship/Interpretation
1. Phrasing/Shaping of Musical Line
2. Expressive Elements
3. Balance
4. Dynamics
5. Emotional Involvement
6. Fluency/Style

Tempo
1. Attention to metronome marking
2. Control and maintenance of basic pulse and subdivisions

Selection
1. Suitability of Literature
2. Difficulty

Presentation
1. Appearance
2. Poise
3. Stage Presence/General Conduct/Mannerisms

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (70 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 106

 MUSIC
Piano Solo

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Composition ________________________________________ Composer__________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Classical Sacred (Check One)

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(6–20)

Performance
1. Musical Effect
2. Poise
3. Difficulty and/or Choice of Selection
4. Memorization

Interpretation
1. Dynamics
2. Phrasing
3. Styling/Mood
4. Balance/Voicing

Musicianship
1. Feeling for Meter
2. Steadiness
3. Tempo
4. Expression/Feeling
5. Range of Dynamics

Accuracy
1. Note Accuracy
2. Rhythmic Accuracy
3. Continuity
4. Fluency
5. Dynamics/Tempo Indications

Technique
1. Coordination
2. Fingering
3. Tone Quality
4. Facility
5. Appropriate Touch/Pedaling

Point Scale
17–20…..Excellent, Superior Total (100 possible points) ______________
13–16…..Good, Above Average
9–12…....Fair, Average
6–8…......Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 107

 MUSIC
(Check Category)
Small Vocal Ensemble Large Vocal Ensemble

School _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ Director (Large Ensemble Only) ________________________

Composition ________________________________________ Composer__________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category}

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)

Tone and Intonation

Technique
1. Blend
2. Balance
3. Ensemble

Rhythm

Diction

Interpretation
1. Performance
2. Styling

Part Accuracy

Stage Presence

Selection
1. Difficulty
2. Appropriateness

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (80 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4….…....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 108

 MUSIC
Choral Group

School _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ Class A AA (Check One)

Composition #1 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Composition #2 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Director _____________________________________

POINTS POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS #1 COMMENTS #2
(4–10) (4–10)

Tone and Intonation

Technique
1. Blend
2. Balance
3. Ensemble

Rhythm

Diction

Interpretation
1. Performance
2. Styling

Part Accuracy

Stage Presence

Selection
1. Difficulty
2. Appropriateness

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Subtotal (80 possible points each) ________ + ________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average Total (160 possible points) ____________
4…….....Poor

________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 109

 MUSIC
(Check Category)
Small Instrumental Ensemble Large Instrumental Ensemble

School _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ Director (Large Ensemble Only) ________________________

Composition ________________________________________ Composer__________________________________________

Time ___________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Instruments ____________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)
Tone
1. Quality
2. Control
3. Registration
4. Intonation
Articulation
1. Attacks and Releases
2. Note Accuracy
3. Rhythmic Accuracy
4. Slurring
Interpretation
1. Tempo
2. Phrasing
3. Dynamics
4. Fluency
5. Style
Ensemble
1. Blend
2. Balance
3. Togetherness

Musicianship
1. Correctness
2. Mood and Emotion
3. Artistry

Selection
1. Appropriateness
2. Difficulty

Presentation
1. Appearance
2. Poise
3. Stage Presence

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (70 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 110

 MUSIC
Handbell/Handchime Ensemble

School __________________________________________________________________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

Composition ________________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category}

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)

Techniques/Articulation
1. Stopped Sounds (pluck,
martellato, RT, etc.)
2. Non-stopped sounds (legato
ringing, LV, shake, etc.)

Accuracy
1. Note Accuracy
2. Rhythmic Accuracy

Musicianship
1. Tempo
2. Phrasing
3. Dynamics
4. Ensemble

Interpretation
1. Mood
2. Expression

Visual Presentation
1. Stage Presence
2. Uniformity of technical elements

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (50 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4….…....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 111

 MUSIC
Orchestra/Band

School _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ Class A AA (Check One)

Composition #1 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Composition #2 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Director _____________________________________

POINTS POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS #1 COMMENTS #2 (4–10) (4–10)
Tone
1. Quality
2. Control
3. Intonation
4. Bowings
5. Vibrato
Articulation
1. Attacks and Releases
2. Note Accuracy
3. Rhythmic Accuracy
4. Slurring
Interpretation
1. Tempo
2. Phrasing
3. Dynamics
4. Fluency
5. Style

Ensemble
1. Blend
2. Balance
3. Precision

Selection
1. Appropriateness
2. Difficulty

Presentation
1. Appearance
2. Poise
3. Stage Presence

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Subtotal (60 possible points each) _______ + ________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average Total (120 possible points) _____________
4…….....Poor

________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 112

 MUSIC
Handbell/Handchime Choir

School _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ Class A AA (Check One)

Composition #1 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Composition #2 ______________________________________ Composer _________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Director _____________________________________

POINTS POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS #1 COMMENTS #2
(4–10) (4–10)
Techniques/Articulation
1. Stopped Sounds (pluck,
martellato, RT, etc.)
2. Non-stopped sounds (legato
ringing, LV, shake, etc.)

Accuracy
1. Note Accuracy
2. Rhythmic Accuracy

Musicianship
1. Tempo
2. Phrasing
3. Dynamics
4. Ensemble

Interpretation
1. Mood
2. Expression

Visual Presentation
1. Stage Presence
2. Uniformity of technical
elements

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Subtotal (50 possible points each) ________ + ________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average Total (100 possible points) ________________
4…….....Poor

________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

Comments for Ringers: Comments for Director:

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 113

 MUSIC
Piano Duet

Names ____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Composition ________________________________________ Composer__________________________________________

Time _______________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Classical Sacred (Check One)

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(6–20)

Technique
1. Position (hands, body, fingers)
2. Articulation (staccato, legato, etc.)
3. Accuracy
4. Facility
5. Tone quality and production
6. Accurate use of pedals

Interpretation
1. Correctness of style
2. Appropriate/Accurate tempo
3. Rhythm (even, steady)
4. Dynamics (accuracy)
5. Clarity of motives, phrases, form

Expression
1. Contrast in tempo/dynamics
2. Phrasing
3. Contrast in sections form
4. Balance between instruments

Performance
1. Stage Presence/Poise
2. Overall Effect
3. Ensemble
4. Difficulty of selection
5. Appropriateness of selection

Point Scale
17–20…..Excellent, Superior Total (80 possible points) _______________
13–16…..Good, Above Average
9–12…....Fair, Average
6–8…......Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 114

 SPEECH
(Check Category)
Dramatic Interpretation Oral Interpretation of Poetry
Religious Reading Declamation
Humorous Interpretation Oral Interpretation of Scripture

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Title _________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)
Memorization
1. Knowledge of Material
2. Hesitation or Confusion
3. Necessity for Prompting
Selection
1. Tasteful
2. Proper Identification of Author
3. Meets Category Requirements
4. Literary Value
Diction
1. Fluency/Articulation
2. Pronunciation
3. Enunciation
4. Voice Projection
5. General Pitch Level
6. Quality of Voice
Communication
1. Mental Rapport with Audience
2. Eye Contact
3. Ability to Hold Attention
Use of Body
1. Posture
2. Bodily Movement
3. Gestures
4. Facial Expressions
5. Stage Presence
6. Distracting Mannerisms
Interpretation
1. Style
2. Comprehension and Proper Emphasis
3. Creation of Mood
4. Phrasing
5. Contrast
6. Expression
7. Spiritual or Emotional Effect
Overall Effectiveness
1. Proficiency of Delivery
2. Personal Appearance
3. Poise
4. Organization of Thought

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (70 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 115

 SPEECH
Original Persuasive Oratory

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Title _________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)
Memorization
“The largely memorized oral presentation…”
(See AACS manual)
1. Knowledge of Material
2. Hesitation or Confusion
3. Necessity for Prompting
Selection
1. Originality
a. Positive Approach
b. Use of Imagination
c. Individualistic Approach
d. Human Interest Appeal
2. Content
a. Relates to Subject
b. Logical Development of Ideas
c. Clarity of Ideas
d. Tasteful
e. Meets Category
Diction
1. Fluency/Articulation 4. Voice Projection
2. Pronunciation 5. General Pitch
Level
3. Enunciation 6. Quality of Voice

Communication
1. Mental Rapport with Audience
2. Eye Contact
3. Ability to Hold Attention

Use of Body
1. Posture 4. Facial Expressions
2. Bodily Movement 5. Stage Presence
3. Gestures 6. Distracting
Mannerisms

Interpretation
1. Style 5. Expressiveness
2. Proper Emphasis 6. Creation of Mood
3. Phrasing 7. Sincerity of Tone
4. Contrast

Overall Effectiveness
1. Proficiency of Delivery
2. Personal Appearance
3. Poise
4. Organization of Thought

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (70 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 116

 SPEECH
Extemporaneous Speaking

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Title _________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)

Introduction

Arguments and Supporting Material

Emotional and Logical Proofs

Organizational Structure
1. Clear
2. Orderly
Pacing
1. Phrasing
2. Pausing
3. Inflection

Language

Bodily Action
1. Poise
2. Gesture
3. Eye Contact
4. Posture
Vocal Delivery
1. Variety
2. Quality
3. Diction

Conclusion

Overall Effect of Persuasiveness

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (100 possible points) ______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 117

 SPEECH
Acting

School __________________________________________________________________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Title _________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)
Interpretation
1. Grasp of the Line Meaning
2. Comprehension
Characterization
1. Action–Reaction
2. Interplay
3. Believability

Poise
Bodily Control Action

Blocking
1. Motivated, Balanced Movement
2. Energy

Diction
Clarity

Timing
Tempo/Build to Climax

Overall Dramatic Effect

1. Control
2. Precision
3. Creativity

Memorization

Selection
1. Literary Value
2. Tasteful
3. Appropriate
4. Judicious Editing
5. Difficulty
Piece and performance adhere to
rules as stated in manual
(specifically one character per
person limit with narration)
Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (100 possible points) ______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 118

 SPEECH
Readers Theatre

School __________________________________________________________________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Title _________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)

Staging
1. Interesting Composition
2. Composition Clarifies the Literature

Movement
1. Posture 4. Facial Expressions
2. Purpose 5. Stage Presence
3. Gestures 6. Distracting Mannerisms
Originality of Arrangement
1. Creative Visualization of Setting using
allowed objects and actors
2. Effective use of group speaking and group
movement (if utilized)
Characterization
1. Voices
2. Movement
3. Facial Expression
4. Intensity
Quality of Selection
1. Literary Value
2. Tasteful
3. Appropriate for the Occasion
4. Judicious Editing
5. Difficulty
Performance
1. Diction
2. Eye Contact
3. Distracting Elements
4. Word Color
5. Attacks and Releases
Memorization
1. Recall
2. Hesitation or Confusion
3. Need for Prompting
Overall Effectiveness
1. Delivery
2. Poise
3. Organization of Thought
4. Group Appearance

Piece and performance adhere to rules

as stated in manual.

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (90 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4…….....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 119

 SPEECH
Choric Speaking

School __________________________________________________________________________________________________

City _______________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

Time ____________ {Judges – Circle time if outside limits for category} Title _________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(4–10)
Use of Voices
1. Pitch
2. Pace
3. Word Color
4. Attacks and Releases
5. Vocal Variety
Diction
1. Fluency 4. Enunciation
2. Articulation 5. Voice Projection
3. Pronunciation 6. Vocal Quality
Movement
1. Posture 4. Facial Expressions
2. Purpose 5. Stage Presence
3. Gestures 6. Distracting Mannerisms
Communication
1. Mental Rapport with Audience
2. Eye Contact
3. Mental and Emotional Grasp of Material
Interpretation
1. Style
2. Expression
3. Mood
4. Contrast
5. Spiritual or Emotional Effect
Quality of Selection
1. Literary Value
2. Tasteful
3. Appropriate for the Occasion
4. Judicious Editing
5. Difficulty
Memorization
1. Recall
2. Hesitation or Confusion
3. Need for Prompting
Overall Effectiveness
1. Delivery
2. Poise
3. Organization of Thought
4. Group Appearance

Piece and performance adhere to rules

as stated in manual.

Point Scale
9–10…..Excellent, Superior Total (90 possible points) _______________
7–8…….Good, Above Average
5–6…….Fair, Average
4….…....Poor _________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 120

 DEBATE

Affirmative Team Negative Team

School _____________________________________________ School ____________________________________________

City ___________________________________ State _______ City _________________________________ State _______

Round _____________________________________________ Date ______________________________________________

Check the column on each item which best describes your evaluation of the speaker’s effectiveness (5 = superior).

FIRST AFFIRMATIVE SECOND AFFIRMATIVE FIRST NEGATIVE SECOND NEGATIVE

1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
ANALYSIS
REASONING
EVIDENCE
ORGANIZATION
REFUTATION
DELIVERY

Total ______________ Total ______________ Total ______________ Total ________________

TEAM RATINGS: AFFIRMATIVE: POOR EXCELLENT NEGATIVE: POOR EXCELLENT

FAIR SUPERIOR FAIR SUPERIOR
GOOD GOOD

Rank each debater in order of excellence: First, Second, Third, Fourth

COMMENTS: COMMENTS:
First Affirmative...Rank __________________ First Negative...Rank ____________

NAME _________________________________________ NAME _________________________________________

Second Affirmative...Rank ________________ Second Negative...Rank ____________

NAME _________________________________________ NAME _________________________________________

REASON FOR DECISION ___________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

In my opinion, the better debating was done by the: AFFIRMATIVE NEGATIVE

_____________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 121

 ARTIST’S IDEA STATEMENT
(Please Print or Type)

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Category ___________________________________________ Medium ___________________________________________

Title of Entry _____________________________________________________________________________________________

1. How or why did you choose your subject? Where did you get the idea? List any website used as source material.

2. The following question applies to all categories except photography categories and digital media.
Did you use a photograph as a reference or source?
 Yes – personal photograph (taken by the artist) *If you marked yes, you must attach a copy of the photograph to this
Artist’s Idea Statement.
 Yes – non-personal photograph (taken by someone else) *If you marked yes, you must attach a copy of the photograph
along with written permission from the owner of the photograph (see Art General Rule 4.a.) to this Artist’s Idea
Statement.
 No
3. Explain the process you used in making your entry. How was your idea developed? Be specific! If printmaking, what type of ink
did you use (water-based, oil, etc.); what matrix did you use (wood, linoleum, etc.)?

4. How long did it take to do this artwork? On what date was it completed?

5. What help did you receive from other people (friends, parents, teachers):
a. In planning the piece?

b. While working on the piece?

c. In framing or other ways of presenting it?

6. Name of art teacher (if applicable) ___________________________ Email Address __________________________________

STATEMENT OF ORIGINALITY
I certify that this project is my own original and authentic work and that I received no help in completing this
project other than general instruction and supervision.

_________________________________________________ __________________________________________________
Student’s Signature Date

This idea statement must be signed and must be attached to one of the three judging forms accompanying the artwork. Three
points will be deducted if it is missing or incomplete. Use the back of this sheet if you need more space. Type if possible!

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 122

 PHOTOGRAPHY ARTIST’S IDEA STATEMENT
(Please Print or Type)

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Category ___________________________________________ Title of Entry _______________________________________

Please provide the appropriate information. File Format of Original (Digital)

Recording Medium  RAW (Proprietary to Camera: cr2, nef, dcr, dng…)
 Film – Negative  JPG
 Film – Positive (Slide, Transparency) Processing Software (Digital): ______________________
 Digital Lens Used: _____________________________________
Camera Type Exposure
 Point and Shoot ISO: ________________________________________
 SLR (Single Lens Reflex) Shutter Speed: _______________________________
 TLR (Twin Lens Reflex) F-Stop: _____________________________________
 View Camera or Press Camera
 Rangefinder

1. Who printed the final image?

2. How or why did you choose your subject? Where did you get the idea?

3. When was the image captured?

4. When was the print made?

5. What help did you receive from other people (friends, parents, teachers):
a. In planning the piece?

b. While working on the piece?

STATEMENT OF ORIGINALITY
I certify that this project is my own original and authentic work and that I received no help in completing this
project other than general instruction and supervision.

_________________________________________________ __________________________________________________
Student’s Signature Date

This idea statement must be signed and must be attached to one of the three judging forms accompanying the artwork. Three
points will be deducted if it is missing or incomplete. Use the back of this sheet if you need more space. Type if possible!

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 123

 ART
(Check Category)
Calligraphy Sculpture
Monochromatic Drawing Textiles
Polychromatic Drawing Crafts
Watercolor Printmaking
Oil Painting Mixed Media
Acrylic Painting

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Medium ___________________________________________ Title ______________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(6–20)

Technique
1. Is the medium used appropriate?
2. Is skillfulness displayed?
3. Is there consistency?

Originality
1. Does this work possess creativity?
2. Does this work possess individuality?
3. Does this work show imagination?

Composition
1. Is there harmony of composition?
2. Is there visual balance?
3. Is there form and color coordination?

Communication
1. Does this work reflect both knowledge of and
experience with the subject?
2. Does this work portray or convey a message?
3. Does this work repeatedly stimulate or
satisfy?

Point Scale
17–20…..Excellent, Superior Total (80 possible points) _______________
13–16…..Good, Above Average
9–12…....Fair, Average
6–8…......Poor ________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 124

 ART
Garment Construction

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Title ______________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(6–20)

Technique
1. Was appropriate fabric chosen?
2. Is skillful construction displayed?
3. Is construction consistent?

Originality
1. Does this work possess creativity?
2. Does this work possess individuality?
3. Does this work show imagination?

Effectiveness
1. Is there harmony of composition?
2. Is there visual balance?
3. Is there form and color coordination?
4. Communication:
a. Does this work portray or convey a message?
b. Does this work repeatedly stimulate or satisfy?

Difficulty
1. Does the garment display knowledge and
experience with the construction techniques?
2. Does the garment display appropriate detail
work?

Point Scale
17–20…..Excellent, Superior Total (80 possible points) _______________
13–16…..Good, Above Average
9–12…....Fair, Average
6–8…......Poor ________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 125

 ART
Digital Media

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Software Program Used ____________________________________________________________________________________

File Name ________________________________________________________________ PC __________ MAC __________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(6–20)
Originality
1. Does the composition show original design and good
planning?
2. Does the project display the personality/individuality of
the artist?
3. Does the method of idea development show student
involvement, good planning and skill? (Refer to Idea
Statement)

Technique
1. Is the general appearance pleasing and well-
proportioned?
2. Is skillfulness and knowledge of medium displayed?
3. Are the techniques/skills used appropriate for this
medium?
4. Does the artwork display form?

Details
1. Is the artwork printed on an appropriate surface?
2. Consider the use of perspective, compositional harmony
and visual balance.
3. Are art techniques such as shading and highlights used?

Appearance
1. Is the piece properly protected?
2. Is the piece free from smudges and fingerprints?
3. Are erasures neatly done? Without damage to paper?
4. Is the piece balanced?
5. Does the composition command attention?

Point Scale
17–20…..Excellent, Superior Total (80 possible points) _______________
13–16…..Good, Above Average
9–12…....Fair, Average
6–8…......Poor ________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 126

 ART
Woodworking

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Title ______________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(6–20)

Originality (1–15 points)

1. Does the preliminary drawing show original design and
good planning?
2. Will the piece function well for its intended use?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Difficulty (1–5 points)
3. Was the project extensive or difficult to produce?
1 2 3 4 5

Craftsmanship
1. Is the general appearance pleasing and well-
proportioned?
2. Is the piece assembled well? (Joints fit properly, legs set
level on floor, corners square, etc.)

Detailing
1. Is grain direction properly used to enhance appearance?
2. Are there design elements that add to the overall
aesthetics?

Finish
1. Is the piece properly sanded?
2. Is there any residual glue showing?
3. Is the stain and/or finish properly applied and enhancing
to the work?

Point Scale
17–20…..Excellent, Superior Total (80 possible points) _______________
13–16…..Good, Above Average
9–12…....Fair, Average
6–8…......Poor ________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 127

 ART
Photography
(Check Category)
Still Life and Macro Landscapes and Architecture People and Animal

Name _____________________________________________ State

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

POINTS
FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS
(6–20)

Originality
1. Does the composition show original design, creativity,
imagination and good planning?
2. Does the photo show original thought, angle,
composition, etc.?

Content/Technique
1. Is the subject matter appealing?
2. Is the composition pleasing and well-balanced?
3. Is there a center of interest/focus?
4. Were special lighting, filters, special effects or other
techniques/tools used?

Details
1. Focus: Is the center of interest sharp? Is the
background muted, blurred or made not to distract?
2. Contrast: Is there a pleasing contrast of light and dark
areas?
3. Did the student have input in the development and
exposure of photo? (Refer to Idea Statement)
4. Do experimental techniques work well?

Appearance
1. Is the piece properly exposed?
2. Is there sufficient and appropriate lighting?
3. Is the photo enlarged to an appropriate size to enhance
the image justly?
4. Does this photo command attention?
5. Digital photos printed properly?

Point Scale
17–20…..Excellent, Superior Total (80 possible points) _______________
13–16…..Good, Above Average
9–12…....Fair, Average
6–8…......Poor ________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 128

 ACADEMIC
Creative Writing: Poetry

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Title ______________________________________________

FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS POINTS

Originality/Content/Communication (50 pts)
1. Approach to topic is creative/original.
2. Content is organized intentionally.
3. Poem captures the reader’s interest.
4. Theme or main idea is developed and well integrated.
5. Word choice is precise, fresh, and free of clichés.
6. Poem contains unique details and vivid descriptive language.
7. Viewpoint is intentional.

(50 points possible)

Poetic Devices (40 pts)
1. Rhyme
a. If the poem is in rhyme, the rhyme scheme is correct.
b. If there is no rhyme, there are compensating sound
devices (alliteration, consonance, onomatopoeia, etc.) to
provide aural appeal. The pattern is broken intentionally.
2. Meter
a. Meter is consistent throughout and appropriate.
b. If there is no meter, phrasing possesses a rhythmic flow to
distinguish it from prose.
3. Poem is infused with imagery-specific sensory impressions,
rather than broad generalities.
4. Literary devices such as metaphor or symbol add depth or
layers of meaning to the poem.
5. Visual appearance: Structure is intentional and meaningfully
connected to the content.
(40 points possible)
Writing Mechanics (10 pts)
Writer shows a clear understanding of the rules of capitalization,
punctuation, spelling, and grammar/syntax OR consistency and
intentionality in breaking rules.

(10 points possible)

Total (100 possible points) ______________

________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 129

 ACADEMIC
Expository Writing: Essay

Name _____________________________________________ State _____________________________________________

School _____________________________________________ City ______________________________________________

Title ______________________________________________

FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS POINTS

Content (50 pts)
1. Strong thesis statement, defined and clearly articulated.
2. Logical arguments that support the thesis.
3. Sufficient specific, concrete, and relevant supporting
details.
4. Avoids emotional appeals.
5. Intent is effectively obtained.

(50 points possible)

Organization (20 pts)
Elements support the theme/purpose and contribute to
a unified whole. May include but not limited to:
1. Effective introduction that prepares reader for thesis.
2. Coherent, unified, fully developed, and logical
paragraphing with strong topic sentences.
3. Logical progression of ideas and effective transitions.
4. Conclusion that provides closure for the argument.

(20 points possible)

Style (20 pts)
May include but not limited to:
1. Effective vocabulary and word usage: fresh; precise;
vivid; and free of clichés, avoids weak repetition,
wordiness, or awkward phrasings. Clear explanations.
2. Sentence structure: clear, forceful, varied and accurate
(subject/verb agreement, subordination, etc.).
3. Approach to the topic: creative/original.
4. Ideas: consistently original; insightful; demonstrate
sophistication and complexity of thought.

(20 points possible)

Mechanics (10 pts)
The essay conforms to the rules of capitalization,
punctuation, spelling, and grammar/syntax.

(10 points possible)

Total (100 possible points) ______________

________________________________________________
Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 130

 SCIENCE FAIR
(Check Category)
Biological Science Physical Science

Name _______________________________________________ State _______________________________________________

School ______________________________________________ City ________________________________________________

Title ________________________________________________ Project # ____________________________________________

FACTORS EVALUATED COMMENTS POINTS

Creativity and Scientific Thought (20 pts)
1. Is the project unique? Is the approach practical, and is
the apparatus and/or testing method appropriate?
2. Is the procedure well thought through, and is the
hypothesis testable?
3. Is the project realistic and the solution beneficial?
(20 points possible)
Research and Experimentation (30 pts)
1. Did the student conduct enough background research
to be qualified to conduct the experiment?
2. Was sufficient data collected? Does the data appear to
be accurate and realistic?
3. Was the experiment controlled, repeated, and/or did
it contain sufficient population to yield accurate
results?
(30 points possible)
Presentation and Documentation (25 pts)
1. Does the Log Book contain sufficient information in
order to reconstruct the project?
2. Does the presentation of material and/or student
interview reflect a well-balanced knowledge of the
project?
3. Does the research paper meet all requirements? Are all
required and applicable forms complete?
(25 points possible)
Thoroughness and Technical Skill (15 pts)
1. Are all areas of the project thoroughly covered and
discussed?
2. Is the apparatus or testing procedure well-constructed,
and did the student do his own work?
3. Does the student have recommendations as to further
or alternate methods to do additional projects based on
the results?
(15 points possible)
Clarity and Dramatic Value (10 pts)
1. Is the presentation clear and easy to follow? Are the
conclusions and findings appropriately presented?
2. Is the presentation professional in appearance and
appropriate for the project?
3. Is the information correctly presented, and is data
presented in a correct, easy-to-follow manner?
(10 points possible)

STATEMENT OF ORIGINALITY
I certify that this project is my own original and authentic Total (100 possible points) _____________
work and that I received no help in completing this
project other than general instruction and supervision.

______________________________________________ __________________________________________________
Student’s Signature Judge’s Signature

©2020 American Association of Christian Schools 131