Which item is essential for FCCLA competitive events?

A portfolio or presentation related to the event topic is essential for FCCLA competitive events because it showcases a participant's understanding, skills, and creativity related to their chosen project. Each competitive event within FCCLA has specific guidelines that often require participants to present their work through visual aids, reports, or specific presentations that demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in areas such as leadership, family relations, or community service. The focus on portfolios and presentations helps judges assess how well participants can communicate their ideas and the effectiveness of their projects. This format also encourages participants to engage in critical thinking and preparation, making it a key component of the competitive experience in FCCLA. Other items listed, such as a research paper, team sizes, or budget proposals, may be relevant to certain events but do not apply universally to all competitive events within FCCLA.