Last changed on
Tue March 3, 2020 at 9:34 AM EDT
Timing:
I do not permit off-time road mapping. Use your allotted time to say everything needed. Time yourself, your team mates, and your opponents. (I will keep time as well). Speaking beyond the allotted time may affect speaker points. Questions asked at the end the Crossfire will not be answered.
ARGUMENTATION
I flow each contention for each round and take gist notes of the Crossfires.
Please remember these points:
During the Summary Speech, extend your contention.
During the Final Focus, focus on your single, strongest contention and explain why you win on that basis. Reiterate your evidence and reasoning to support your impacts for that contention.
EVIDENCE
You should not ask for evidence unless: 1. You know your opponent is making unsubstantiated claims, 2. Your opponent has evidence directly contrasting your own evidence and claim, or 3. You believe your opponent is misrepresenting or falsifying evidence.
Be clear to provide your reason for requesting the evidence. If you believe the evidence is false or misrepresented, I will look at it as well. Otherwise, I never ask for evidence.
When prompted for evidence or a source, you should be able to provide it quickly. If you cannot quickly find a source, I will assume it does not exist.
RESPECT
Maintain civility and respect for opponents during crossfire. Respect during a crossfire is paramount. I understand and support passionate exchanges, but not at the expense of civility and respect for your opponents.
SPEAKING
Please do not spread. Show passion for your topic in these ways: speaking loudly; articulating clearly; varying your tone; stress key points.
STANDING/SITTING
I have no preferences for sitting or standing at any point in a debate, and I don't care at whom you look during speeches or crossfires.
DISCLOSING
At the end of the round, I typically disclose the winner. I also provide specific, written feedback for participant.