Iesa Judges Instructions:
2004
Thanks. Introductions. I’m the IESA official at this contest. Send runner for me if you have a question. You don’t have to answer any coach’s or parent’s question. I’ll talk to you then I’ll talk to them. Packets.
Timing: from first spoken word to the last, including any introduction. Some pieces may have an obvious beginning without any words being spoken..go ahead and punch the clock. : write it on the sheet. Some confusion in the state: No introduction is required! Tell the doorkeeper when to shut the door once the judge is ready.
All times taken care of in office. You judge it as if the time is okay.
This is IESA. If you’ve judged high school contest, this is very different. Everyone receives a first, second, or third. You will judge many different events. RULE OF THUMB: Not memorized or not ready: 3rd Memorized but not great: 2nd Memorized and pretty good: 1st
Small group acting: 5-10 min ..3-5 actors, table and 3 chairs IDA rules. Explain. 1 1/2 to 2 min. Hum, Ser, Hum. Ok to ask contestants names before they begin. They should not say them after they’ve begun. Last night: let me know if you get some bad prompts. I haven’t seen them. Serious should be rather generic.
Impromptu Speaking.. Understand the rules? Judge’s Choice Awards: choose your two most outstanding at the end of the day. Complete the Award and give to office. (Last year: second place girl)
No penalty for wrong category but they should be told.
New rules.. see IESA info.
chair allowed in individual event
Arrange room how you like…make sure you have a wide center aisle in front of you. Take charge of room. Some will be full and some perhaps only you and the contestant.
Some kids may have tight scheduling. Allow performing out of order. No need to okay it with the office as long as you know. Don’t get ahead. We want to encourage parents to attend. If a cancellation, take a break. You may allow any changes in speaking order.
Note: tear-off sheet at bottom for coach only. The things you might not want the contestant to see unequal partners.. material too difficult or too easy. The contestant’s demeanor.
In small print on judging sheet are the things we’d like you to consider.
Excessive prompting: more than one. Many won’t even have prompters.
Note age & experience on card.
No disqualifications. Reasons for no rating (but may perform): insufficient # in duet or chorale
Lower one rank: excessive prompting over or under time limit (done in office) Lowering Final Rating to Third: third character in a duet use of props, including any kind of costume (except chair may now be used in solo events) (and remember..chairs and table in small group and duet)…what’s on their body…hair, etc., is NOT a prop. use of same selection in two consecutive years directing a chorale presentation with 7th or 8th-graders Chorale group using only one selection.
Props… the wall, a real watch, etc.
Ok to hold a few back to get the feel of the contest. (disregard IESA recommendations on this)
Oral comments are great if you have time. But put the really important things on your sheet. Sign your sheet.
Time: should be adjusted in the office. But you must record it.
Judges are all rated by coaches and ratings are sent in to IESA where my committee must resolve problems. Most common complaints: low rating and no reason. … or low rating and nothing but wonderful comments… grouchy judges…. few comments. This sounds picky…but… I’ve heard this a hundred times: “My judge didn’t even smile!”
In judging, realize: these are kids.. scared.. most coaches have no training and were talked into taking job. They need specific, concrete comments they can use. Your comments will probably be the same things their coaches have been saying for weeks. Today they will listen as if from God.
I encourage you to begin with a kind word. Set them at ease.
Many have worked for two months to prepare what you’re going to see today. You and I may be able to tell ourselves who we are and be satisfied with that. These are young adolescents. Who they are is determined by who the most important people in their lives think they are. Today that is you. Be sensitive. Be helpful.
Questions?
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