Middle Level
Speech competition for grades 6–8 · MIFA-sanctioned · ML State Finals each spring
The MIFA Middle Level program is designed to introduce students in grades 6, 7, and 8 to the world of competitive forensics. Middle Level events mirror the structure of the high school Individual Events program — Public Address and Interpretation categories, prelim and final rounds, judge ranks and percentages — but are calibrated to be age-appropriate in expectations and competitive culture.
Middle Level tournaments are welcoming, educational environments. The emphasis is on growth and participation as much as competitive achievement. Judges at ML tournaments are encouraged to provide constructive feedback, and many schools use Middle Level competition as the primary pipeline that feeds into their high school programs.
The season follows a structure parallel to the high school calendar: invitationals in the fall, district-level qualifying tournaments in November, and the Middle Level State Finals in the spring. State Finals provides a culminating competitive experience and the chance for outstanding middle school speakers to be recognized across the state.
Events
Middle Level events are drawn from the same Public Address and Interpretation categories as high school IE. Common ML events include:
Specific events offered vary by tournament. Consult the individual tournament listing for the event menu.
ML State Finals
The Middle Level State Finals is held each spring and is the culminating event of the ML season. Students qualify through their district tournament results. State Finals features prelim and final rounds with MIFA-certified judges and official sweepstakes scoring. Dates for the 2026–27 ML State Finals will be announced in the Season Calendar.