Life situations often result in the need to persuade others.  We may want to convince other people to believe differently than they do at present or to take a particular action in response to a current situation.  We can offer a solution to a problem or perhaps to reinforce and strengthen current attitudes.  The Persuasive Speech category allows participants to prepare and deliver such a speech.  A good persuasive speech will contain evidence and reasoning, as well as sound emotional appeals. (Time: 3 ½-7  minutes)