The Rotary Club of Sandys is to host a speaking contest for high school pupils tomorrow.

The theme will be the Rotary Four-Way Test, a moral and ethical model for behaviour, decision-making and life.

The club said: “Rotary’s speech contest is a fun way for students to sharpen their public-speaking skills while learning about Rotary’s initiative of service above self.

“Participants will compete for cash prizes at the club-level competition and the ultimate winner will be announced at the end of the event.”

The club explained that the Four-Way Test has been used by Rotarians for more than seven decades “as a practical yardstick in their business, community and personal affairs”.

The test was created by Herbert J. Taylor, a Chicago Rotarian, in 1932, during the Great Depression.

The four questions are:

1, Is it the truth?

2, Is it fair to all concerned?

3, Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

4, Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Rotary International adopted the Four-Way Test as part of its vocational service programme in 1943 and it is now considered an essential element of service.

Pupils between the ages of 14 and 16 were able to enter the contest, which will be held at Bermuda College, and each school was allowed three entries.

They are expected to deliver a speech between five and seven minutes long.

Judges will evaluate the speakers’ delivery based on volume, vocal variety and clarity, speed of delivery, pronunciation, and non-verbal cues.

The best speaker will receive $250 and a certificate of merit, with the runner-up in line for $175 and a certificate of merit. The third prize will be $100 and a certificate of participation.

All pupils taking part will also receive a certificate of participation.