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Puxi Campus G8: English Speech Competition: The Power of Voice and Expression

November 10, 2025

As the crisp air hinted at the long-anticipated change of seasons, excitement filled the halls of SHSID. On November 6, the Grade 8 English Speech Competition Finals took place in the auditorium. After two rounds of rigorous selection, eight outstanding contestants were chosen to represent their English classes and take the stage before the entire grade.


When the lights dimmed and the audience settled in, the atmosphere brimmed with anticipation. The hosts, Mr. Brigham and Mr. Laverriere, opened the event with warmth and enthusiasm, reminding everyone that true communication stems not only from eloquence but also from respect and attention.


Stories that Stunned and Inspired

The theme of this year’s competition—horror stories—challenged students to blend creativity, emotion, and structure in equal measure. Each finalist brought forth a unique narrative, constructing suspenseful worlds with vivid imagery, expressive tones, and precise word choices. As the tales unfolded—from chilling encounters to psychological mysteries—the audience gasped, laughed, and reflected, fully immersed in the performers’ storytelling.


Through these stories, students explored not only the thrills of fear but also the deeper anxieties and reflections that underlie human nature. The speeches demonstrated that English learning at SHSID is not just about mastering a language—it is about using language as a bridge for thought, imagination, and cultural understanding.


Two Rounds, One Stage

The competition consisted of two segments. The S and S+ level performers opened the event, captivating the audience with refined structure, fluent language, and confident delivery. They impressed with imaginative plots and natural stage presence, earning waves of applause.


The H and H+ contestants followed, elevating the contest with more complex narratives and profound themes. Their performances showcased emotional control, dramatic timing, and linguistic precision, transforming the stage into a theater of suspense and introspection. From gentle storytelling to gripping dramatization, each participant demonstrated an impressive command of language and stagecraft.


Results and Reflections

After rounds of intense preparation and outstanding performances, the final results of the Grade 8 English Speech Competition were officially announced.

Final Round Winners:

S/S+ Group

First Prize: Yaya (8-11)

Second Prize: Shuohan (8-3)

Third Prize: Jake (8-1)

Honorable Mention: Ryan (8-7)


H/H+ Group

First Prize: Emily (8-7)

Second Prize: Eden (8-4)

Third Prize: Mangala (8-9)

Honorable Mention: Stephen (8-2)


Each winner showcased exceptional storytelling skills, confidence, and creativity. Their speeches not only impressed the judges with their structure and fluency but also deeply resonated with the audience through vivid imagery and emotional expression. The event concluded with resounding applause, marking a celebration of both linguistic excellence and the courage to speak from the heart.


The winners were warmly congratulated by the audience and awarded by teachers, who praised the participants for their eloquence, creativity, and courage in addressing the entire grade.


Beyond the rankings, every contestant emerged as a winner. The process—from brainstorming ideas and revising drafts to confidently delivering their speeches on stage—was a journey of both linguistic mastery and personal growth. Through this experience, students strengthened their critical thinking, communication, and creative confidence, discovering that the true power of speech lies in sincerity and connection.


As applause filled the auditorium, the event came to a close, leaving every listener inspired. The competition not only celebrated linguistic excellence but also ignited a passion for storytelling—a passion that will continue to guide SHSID students as they find their voices and shape their worlds with words.























(Written by Lan 8-9, Roger 8-7, Liwen Pan
Pictures by Grade 8 Teachers
Reviewed by Ms. Shen Ying, Michael Laverriere, Shiyu Wu, Louie Parker)