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DEVELOP YOUR EXTEMP TUBS
Use a system that works for you, but here is a good way to organize the many extemp articles you
should have:
Have a foreign issues box: try to organize it by regions of the world (Middle East, Africa, Southeast
Asia, etc) and then alphabetically by country within each regional section. Topics will cross borders
often, but thats why you have the option in extemp of pulling out TWO files instead of just ONE!
Have a domestic issues box: again, organize by major general topics, and then alphabetically within
each general topic. Domestic issues will be tougher to fit entirely under general topics, so dont force
things that dont fit because you will lose them. Instead, stick to simple generalizations (like sticking
all politicians in a single general category, arranged alphabetically) and try to avoid filing things in
ways that might obscure them later.

RESEARCH!!!
You need to stay up on the latest news events and policy issues. Whats the latest in the war on
terrorism? What are the arguments for and against expanding social programs? Who is likely to win
the next election? Suggestions for doing this:
1. Purchase the West Coast ENews Package. This is an amazing resource with hundreds of pages of
great background information as well as the very latest news. &OLFNKHUHIRUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQ
2. Research on the web using West Coasts extemp resources page: &OLFNKHUHIRU:HVW&RDVWV

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3. Listen to the news each evening
4. Read the newspaper each day Read a news magazine or two each week
5. Discuss news issues with friends, family, and teammates
6. Work with your coach to setup assignments so a variety of issues get researched

7. Do Checks! Have other people ask you news questions and then see if your tubs have the material
you need. If they dont, then do research to fill in the gaps!