The HOSA Researched Persuasive Writing and Speaking event is a dynamic and essential competition designed for the next generation of healthcare leaders. It challenges Future Health Professionals (HOSA members) to explore a critical, often polarizing topic within the healthcare field.
This event isn't just about knowledge; it's about perspective, critical thinking, and the power of effective communication. Students are required to research a specific topic, formulate a strong position, and then present their argument both in writing and as a persuasive speech. It is perfect for any HOSA member aspiring to roles that require strong advocacy, clear expression, and evidence-based reasoning.
This event tests a robust set of academic and professional skills. Preparation must focus on mastering several key competencies defined by the event guidelines.
Students must gain proficiency in:
Comprehensive Research Methods: Learning how to identify credible sources, analyze complex healthcare issues, and differentiate between strong evidence and bias.
Persuasive Writing Techniques: Constructing a well-organized, compelling written argument that effectively utilizes evidence and addresses counterarguments.
Formal Public Speaking: Developing confidence, clarity, appropriate non-verbal communication, and dynamic presentation skills.
APA Citation: Understanding and correctly applying official American Psychological Association guidelines for all sourced material.
Critical Analysis of Healthcare Topics: Engaging deeply with the annual HOSA topic (which changes yearly) to understand its societal, ethical, and practical implications.
While "practice tests" for this event focus on testing knowledge of the guidelines and citation rules, the actual HOSA competitive event occurs in two primary stages at regional, state, and international conferences.
First, competitors submit a prepared persuasive paper (limited to a specific page count). This paper is evaluated by judges using a structured rubric before the event or at a designated time during the conference. The paper must include a properly formatted APA title page and references.
Second, competitors deliver a prepared speech (typically 4 minutes long) on the same topic to a panel of judges. The speech is scored based on content, delivery, voice quality, poise, and the effective use of persuasive techniques. There is usually no written multiple-choice "exam" component for this specific skill-based event at the main competition levels. The "passing score" is simply the ranking achieved against other competitors based on the combined scores of the paper and speech.
The key to success in this event lies in thorough preparation and repeated practice. Study methods should be active and diversified.
Start by meticulously reviewing the official HOSA Researched Persuasive Writing and Speaking event guidelines available on the HOSA website. These guidelines are the "syllabus" and rubric for the event. Practice researching a wide variety of credible, peer-reviewed healthcare sources to strengthen your evidence base.
Write multiple drafts of your persuasive paper, seeking feedback from teachers, advisors, and peers. To prepare for the speaking component, film yourself delivering the speech to analyze your non-verbal communication and pacing. Practice presenting live in front of audiences of varying sizes.
This exam does not take place at external testing providers like Pearson VUE or authorized schools. It is conducted exclusively within the structure of HOSA competitive conferences. You must register and compete through your school's HOSA chapter at Regional, State (SLC), and potentially the International Leadership Conference (ILC).
The skills honed in this event are exceptionally marketable in many sectors. Mastering researched persuasion opens doors to diverse and rewarding careers.
Specific job titles and career paths unlocked by this skill set include:
Health Communications Specialist
Public Health Educator
Patient Advocate
Healthcare Policy Analyst
Community Health Coordinator
Healthcare Administrator
Medical Writer
Public Relations Manager for Health Systems
Public Health Attorney/Legal Consultant
Non-Profit Health Advocate
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