NHSDLC Fall Online V
2023 — CN
Public Forum Paradigm List
All Paradigms: Show HideFramework: I place a strong emphasis on the framework, which involves deciding which issues or impacts are most important and instructing debaters on how to weigh them in the round. The main priorities are well-reasoned arguments, logical analysis, and effective use of evidence.
Speaker Points: To decide the winner, I look at speaker points based on a debater's presentation style, clarity, and overall performance. Strong communication skills contribute to a more persuasive and engaging performance. Respect for opponents should be maintained throughout the debate.
Clash and Rebuttal: I also look at the clash—direct engagement with the opponent's arguments—and effective rebuttal. Debaters are expected to respond to opposing points and demonstrate why their arguments are superior.
Relevant Evidence: The utilization of relevant evidence and examples to support arguments is vital. I assess the quality and relevance of the evidence provided by each team.
ANU KHAN
Age: 27
College: Zhengzhou university
Current Occupancy (Doctorol Student/ Software engineering Lecturer):
What types of debate have you participated before and how long is your debate career?
I have participated in various types of debates, from informal discussions to formal competitive debates. My debate "career" spans from my primary school years to my master's studies at university, totaling around 10 years of experience. Not only did participate in debates, but also gained experience as a judge for national debate competitions among different universities during my job at the university.
How do you consider fast-talking?
Fast-talking in debate can be seen as a “skill” when used effectively. It shows a deep knowledge of the topic and “quick thinking”. However, it's essential for debaters to balance speed with clarity to ensure that their arguments are still comprehensible to the judges and the audience.
How do you consider aggressiveness?
For me being a judge, I consider aggressiveness positively in a debate when it's channeled into a “strong” and “confident” presentation of one's argument without resorting to “rudeness” or “personal attacks”.
How do you usually determine the winner of the debate?
Certainly, as a judge, I assess and determine the winner of a debate based on the debaters' ability to present clear, persuasive, and relevant arguments, while adhering to the competition's rules and criteria.
How many tournaments have you judged in the past year?
11+
How many notes do you take during a debate?
I write down the points I think are important
What is the main job of the summary speech?
Highlight the major points of clash and show how your team won them.
Please answer the following questions based on a scale of 1-10.
How important is defining the topic to your decision making?
9
How important is framework to your decision making?
9
How important is crossfire in your decision making?
7
How important is weighing in your decision making?
8
How important is persuasive speaking and non-verbal communication in your decision-making?
10
How fast should students speak?
7
*As a judge, I appreciate debaters who incorporate real-world examples and practical solutions into their arguments. Additionally, I value creativity and the ability to think outside the box when addressing the debate topic. Engaging the audience with memorable anecdotes or relatable scenarios can make a positive impression. Lastly, maintaining a respectful and professional tone throughout the debate is essential. These qualities can set you apart and make a lasting impression in my assessment*
Judge Philosophies
Judge’s Name: Latifa Mtawali
As a debate and public speech judge, I will consider the following factors when deciding the best speech or debate:
- What factors go into your decision as to who wins the debate?
1. Substance of Arguments
Strength of evidence: Did the debaters back their claims with facts, statistics, and credible sources?
Logical reasoning: Were the arguments internally consistent and well-structured? Did they avoid fallacies?
Addressing counter-arguments: Did the debaters anticipate and effectively respond to opposing viewpoints?
2. Delivery and Style:
Clarity and conciseness: Were the arguments easy to understand and follow?
Charisma and stage presence: Did the debater hold the audience's attention and project confidence?
Civility and respect: Did the debaters treat each other and opposing viewpoints with respect?
3. Audience and Context:
Debate format: Was it a formal competition with set rules or a more informal discussion?
Audience expectations: What were the audience members hoping to gain from the debate?
Persuasiveness: Did the debater effectively shift the audience's opinion on the issue?
Is there anything else you would like the debaters to know about you?
The energy of young debaters is truly inspiring! Witnessing their passion and deep knowledge of these important issues is a privilege. I'm excited to participate and immerse myself in the entire experience.
DAVID BRIAN MUNYAO PARADIGM
Age: 23yrs
College:Beijing Institute of Technology
Current Occupancy (Student in college, or career field): Student
1. What types of debate have you participated before and how long is your debate career?
A reasonable number of debates more than 2 years
2. How do you consider fast-talking?
Am good with fast talking Provided the debaters are audible maintain clarity and are understandable speed should not affect quality of arguments.
3. How do you consider aggressiveness?
Provided its respectable and in contest we good focus on strength of your arguments rather than personal attacks
4. How do you usually determine the winner of the debate?
According to the teams ability to defend their argument with amble evidence and impacts clear articulation,logical reasoning and overall persuasiveness,how well can debaters respond to their opponents arguments and counterpoints.
5. Please specify any additional notes you want to share with debaters, including any unique preference of the debate.
-be clear and concise in your arguments and support your points with credible evidence
6. How many tournaments have you judged in the past year?
A. 0-5
7. How many notes do you take during a debate?
A. I try to take notes on everything.
8. What is the main job of the summary speech?
A. Highlight the major points of clash and show how your team won them.
Please answer the following questions based on a scale of 1-10.
9. How important is defining the topic to your decision making? 9
10. How important is frame work to your decision making? 8
11. How important is crossfire in your decision making? 7
12. How important is weighing in your decision making? 8
13. How important is persuasive speaking and non-verbal communication in your decision-making? 8
14. How fast should students speak? 7
I have experience judging NHDLC and NSDA tournaments in the past few months for PF, Novice, and Middle school online and offline competitions.
In my experience, I consider fast talking as not a very effective manner of conveying your argument. I want to follow your chain of arguments. Therefore, I appreciate it more when the debaters convey their arguments in a moderate-paced manner. Otherwise, I will miss out on important details.
In some cases, aggressiveness is helpful, especially in arguments where the debaters try to make their opponents understand their point of view. However, I prefer it when the debaters are professional and respectful. You can still present an effective debate when calm and firm. Employ convincing skills and evidence-based and impactful arguments. Impoliteness, insults, and personal attacks will not be entertained.
To determine the winner, I consider the overall structure of the debate. I follow the complete chain of main arguments. I then assess the strength of each argument, the quality of evidence, the logic of the reasoning, and the relevance of the points made. I look for clear impacts and explanations of why certain arguments matter more than others.
I don’t admit new arguments in the summary and final focus. Any new arguments introduced in the summary do not earn any points. Debaters should focus on strengthening their main arguments. They should explain why their arguments are more important or carry greater weight in the round. I also consider the clarity and persuasiveness of each debater's presentation. Effective refutation and addressing opposing points are also crucial for a strong case.
Every debate is different and based on my evaluation of the arguments, impacts, and overall performance, I decide on which side presented the stronger case and deserves to win the debate.
In case of any questions, I encourage debaters to seek clarification.
2. 1-2 sentences to summarize your personal debate philosophy.
Debate should be based on facts and evidence provided.
3. How do you consider fast-talking?
I respect time management so l accept fast talking as long as the speaker is audible.
4. How do you consider aggressiveness?
It’s not necessary for a win …. Everything should be done in moderation showing respect for every debater.
5. How do you usually determine the winner of the debate? Briefly explain in 1-2 sentences
l consider all the facts given then compare the facts to the evidence provided .
6. Please specify any additional notes you want to share with debaters.
Debates should flow smoothly with the highest level of professionalism
NGALULA JOJO
AGE:23
COLLEGE:NANJING UNIVERSITY OF POST AND TELECOMMUNICATION
CURRENT OCCUPANCY:STUDENT
1. What types of debates have you participated before and how long is your debate career?
I did debate when I was in high school went up to provincial level in 2017 and 2018.
2. How do you consider fast talking?
I don’t mind fast talking but I do prefer moderate and composed talking. Talking fast can result in poor word articulation and the judges might miss crucial argument moreover I think value over volume.
3.How do you consider aggressiveness?
Arguments should be presented with passion but always be respectful and professional. Keep in mind that, the main aim should be to persuade others with logic and especially the mechanism and not by intimidation or hostility.
4. How do you usually determine the winner of the debate?
I take into consideration the entire debate before determining the team which wins. The team which has the most persuasive argument and is backed by logic.
5. Please specify any additional notes you want to share with debaters, including any unique preferences of the debate?
It's extremely important that your arguments are presented as clear as possible with proper breakdown so that I can follow along and it needs to be backed up with relevant evidence. I do prefer debaters who are able to conduct themselves professionally by remaining calm and collected during the debate by avoiding personal attacks. Lastly, don’t go on tangents and give irrelevant arguments do your best to stick to the topic.
MY JUDGE PARADIGM
NAME: MUTITI WAITHANJI
AGE: 50 YEARS
CURRENT OCCUPATION: UNIVERSITY LECTURER
Currently I am a university lecturer at University of Kabianga, School of Education and Social Sciences, Kenya. I have been a high school teacher in Kenya for over fifteen years, teaching English Language to International General Certificate Education (IGCSE) students. I have participated in moderating National school debates, and I do currently participate in our University students debates every semester. In my judging I prefer moderately fast speakers, as this would help them to marshal their points home easily. I like concise and well thought out arguments, debaters who can aggressively prod the responses of their opponents with decorum, and intellectual maturity. This would with an aim of getting clarifications and a possible avenue for further learning and getting more refined in terms of speech and debating skills. In the debate arena I will seek to understand the framework on which the competitors predicate their argument, how they go about proving their claims and with what results. Logical flow, clarity of thought and good flow of clashes and strong rebuttals would be my point for calling a debate. I anticipate a fruitful engagement and learning experience for all.
Age: 27
College: JIANGSU UNIVERSITY
Current Occupancy (Student in college, or career field): Economics and International Trade Student / Business Owner.
How many tournaments have you judged in the past year?
- 6-10
How many notes do you take during a debate?
- I try to take notes on literally everything
What is the main job of the summary speech?
-Highlight the major points of clash and show how your team won them
How important is defining the topic to your decision-making?
- 3/10
How important is framework to your decision-making?
- 7/10
How important is crossfire in your decision-making?
- 5/10
How important is weighing in your decision-making?
- 8/10
How important is persuasive speaking and non-verbal communication in your decision-making?
- 4/10
How fast should students speak?
- 1-10 (feel free to speak as fast as you please)
What types of debate have you participated before, and how long is your debate career?
-High school Debate team (2 years)
-Model United Nations Debate, Jiangsu University, 2020.
-Host of Model United Nations Debate, Jiangsu University, 2021.
-Host of Model United Nations Debate, Jiangsu University, 2022.
How do you consider fast-talking?
-It can be a great skill and strategy to deploy during the debate.
-I consider speaking at around 300 words per minute to be fast, of course words should be clearly pronounced and consistent throughout the speech.
-I type at 100 wpm, so you can be confident I will be getting down everything you say.
How do you consider aggressiveness?
-When the debater is confrontational or actively attacks the opponent’s arguments (expected)
-On the extreme side, when the debater resorts to excessive interruptions, aggression, shouting or personal attacks towards their opponents to undermine their arguments (not tolerated).
How do you usually determine the winner of the debate?
Here are the 3 points I use to determine the winner:
-Clarity and organization: The debater who presents their arguments in a clear, logical, and well-structured manner.
-Strong arguments and evidence: The strength of the arguments presented, supported by relevant and compelling evidence.
-Rebuttal and refutation: Effectively addressing and countering opponents' arguments is crucial. The ability to identify weaknesses in opponents' positions, provide counterarguments, and refute their points with sound reasoning and evidence.
Please specify any additional notes you want to share with debaters, including any unique preference of the debate.
-Mutual respect and Politeness go a long way.
-Respect time.
The adjudication of any debate will consider a number of issues but my verdict will be determined by the terms or rules of that specific debate. Competitors will have to demonstrate their understanding of the topic in an analytical way and also by referencing authentic sources or statistics rather than using emotional points to seek validation of this judge. Everything will be based on who has done justice to the topic in key areas rather than who has sided with my position. I will approach every competition without choosing a side of the topic I support or will not be influenced by my cultural values to determine outcomes.
K@sh
Age: 30 years
University: NCWU
Current Occupancy (Student in college, or career field): Student of Phd
1. What types of debate have you participated before and how long is your debate career?
I have participated in academic debates, environmental conferences, and training and development-related debates. My debate career spans nearly three years as a professional, following the completion of my degree. I also engaged in debate activities intermittently during my educational journey.
2.How do you consider fast-talking?
Fast talking in debates, also called "spreading," means talking really fast to say a lot in a short time. People do this to share many arguments and evidence, make good use of time, and sometimes confuse their opponents. But whether it's okay or not depends on the debate's rules and what's normal in that debate community. Speaking quickly can be good for covering a lot of ground, but it can also make things hard to understand for judges and the audience. So, debaters should speak in a way that fits the rules and what's expected in that particular debate. If it's clear and easy to follow, it's usually fine.
3.How do you consider aggressiveness?
I consider aggressiveness as a factor in evaluating debaters. It can be effective when it conveys passion and assertiveness in presenting arguments and engaging withopponents. However, it must remain respectful and professional, avoiding personal attacks and derogatory language. Aggressiveness should be accompanied by well-reasoned arguments and effective rebuttals, and it should enhance audience engagement without causing confusion or hostility. Rule adherence is crucial, and excessive aggressiveness, such as interruptions or dominating the discussion, should be avoided to maintain a balanced and productive debate environment.
4.How do you usually determine the winner of the debate?
As a debate judge, I evaluate debaters based on a set of key criteria, including the strength of arguments, effectiveness of rebuttals, clarity and organization, use of credible evidence, respectful conduct, time management, adaptability, adherence to the debate format andawareness of resolution. The winning debater or team excels in these areas by effectively presenting their case, countering opposing arguments, following the rules, and maintaining a respectful demeanor. Clarity, credible evidence, impactfull rebuttals, and adaptability are particularly valued. It's essential for debaters to tailor their approach to the specific debate's rules and expectations, as judges may have different preferences.
5. Please specify any additional notes you want to share with debaters, including any unique preference of the debate.
As a judge, I value well-structured and clear arguments that are supported by relevant evidence and logical reasoning. I appreciate debaters who engage in respectful and constructive dialogue, focusing on the substance of the argument rather than personal attacks. Please be concise and to the point in your responses, and avoid going off-topic. It's important to address your opponent's points directly and provide counterarguments or rebuttals where necessary. Additionally, while passion is important, I encourage debaters to maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout the debate. Remember that clarity, relevance, and logical coherence are key to winning the debate in my view.
6. How many tournament have you judged in the past year?
6-10
7. How many notes d you take during a debate?
I write down the points that I think are important.
8. What is the main job of the summary?
Highlight the major clash points and show how your team won them.
9. How important is defining the topic to your decision making? (1 -10)
10
10. How important is framework to your decision making?
9
11. How important is crossfire in your decision making?
7
12. How important is weighing in your decision making?
7
13. How important is persuasive speaking and non-verbal communication in decision making?
10
14. How fast should student speak?
8
JUDGE PARADIGM
NAME: ARLENA NJOKI WAITHANJI
AGE: 23 YEARS
CURRENT OCCUPANCY: UNIVERSITY UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT.
DEBATE ETIQUETTE
Personally, I prefer a moderate-paced speaker as I feel that this allows the debater to clearly articulate their points and guarantees them that all their points are heard by the judges. The debaters should also be confident and explain their arguments clearly. During the debate, certain virtues and manners should be observed. The debaters should not be aggressive towards their opponents because as much as this is a competition, it is also an opportunity for the debaters to learn. In this regard, the debating environment should therefore be calm, and everyone accorded the time and space allocated to them to present their motion without disruption.
DECISION MAKING PROCESS
During the debate I employ the format of establishing what claim the debater presented, their justification for the claim and the impact of the claim. In addition to this I look at the logic plus the evidence presented by the debaters to establish who the winner is. Concerning impact, I encourage students to provide justification and demonstrate feasibility. This is because some students might present quantitative data without explaining the mechanism or providing a link to how these outcomes will be achieved.
I would also like to convey to the students the importance of clearly convincing me, as the judge, about what they mean and why their arguments are unique. It is not my role to interpret their claims in any way. They should be persuasive and make a compelling case for why they should win the various contentions they are championing. Additionally, I suggest using crossfire to challenge opponents and attempt to weaken their arguments by addressing any loopholes they might have. Failure to do so only strengthens the opponent's position.
SPEAKER POINTS
When I am allocating speaker points, they vary in different aspects. I consider the English proficiency, manner of delivery, articulation, and overall presentation. Moreover, I assess how well students respond to questions and engage with their opponents during crossfire. In addition to penalizing the use of abusive language and intentional falsification of evidence, I also take into account the organization and clarity of their arguments, as well as their ability to adapt to unexpected challenges or counterarguments. These factors collectively contribute to the overall evaluation and scoring of each participant.
Moderate speaking is preferred. Given that English may not be the first language for many students, clarity could become an issue. Therefore, I advise students to speak moderately to ensure that all their points are heard clearly by both the judge and their opponents. This helps avoid situations I've encountered before where the opposing team asks for a repetition of contentions. However, if you are confident in your pronunciation, then a quicker pace is acceptable to me.
I am eagerly looking forward to learning, listening to, and interacting with all the teams in the debate.
I was president of both English and Chinese debate team during college, now work in the field of licensing. Started to judge different tournaments for DLC since 2015, both off-line and online.
In terms of preference, I value clear presentation and direct logic, simply repeating how strong your cases is not helping you to win, identify your opponent's logical flaw then rebut or defend analytically, ideally to connect with your prepared evidence, or to rebut basing on the real clash. As for speakers point, being kind and clear is the key. And please, don't yell.
Public Forum (PF) Debate Judge Paradigm:
Background: As a PF debate judge, I appreciate well-reasoned arguments, clarity, and effective communication. I value depth of analysis and strategic use of evidence. I encourage debaters to engage in clash, respond to opponents' arguments, and communicate with a broad audience.
Expectations:
-
Clarity and Organization: Clear, organized, and signposted speeches are crucial. Make it easy for me to follow your arguments and responses.
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Evidence and Analysis: Support your arguments with relevant evidence, but don't forget to analyze and explain the implications. Quality over quantity when it comes to evidence.
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Crossfire: Engage in productive crossfire. Use it strategically to highlight weaknesses in your opponent's case and strengthen your own.
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Impact Calculus: Explain the significance of your arguments. Tell me why your impacts matter more than your opponents'.
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Respect: Maintain a respectful tone. Be persuasive without being overly aggressive. Encourage a constructive debate atmosphere.
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Flexibility: Adapt to the flow of the round. Flexibility in strategy and argumentation is appreciated.
Original Oratory (OO) Judge Paradigm:
Background: As an OO judge, I am looking for compelling storytelling, effective use of rhetoric, and a speaker who can captivate the audience. I appreciate creativity, passion, and a clear message.
Expectations:
-
Engagement: Connect with the audience. Keep me engaged throughout your speech.
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Clarity of Message: Clearly articulate your main message. Ensure that your speech has a clear purpose and takeaway.
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Delivery: Pay attention to pacing, intonation, and overall delivery. A well-delivered speech enhances the impact of your message.
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Emotional Appeal: Don't be afraid to evoke emotions. A good balance of logic and emotion can make your speech memorable.
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Creativity: Be creative in your approach. Whether it's in your language, examples, or structure, originality stands out.
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Timing: Respect the time limits. Practice to ensure that your speech fits within the allocated time.
Impromptu Speaking Judge Paradigm:
Background: As an Impromptu judge, I value adaptability, quick thinking, and effective communication. I understand the constraints of the format and appreciate speakers who can navigate them successfully.
Expectations:
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Clear Structure: Despite the limited preparation time, organize your thoughts coherently. Have a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion.
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Relevance: Address the topic directly. Stay focused on the key aspects of the prompt.
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Use of Examples: Support your points with relevant examples. Quality examples can enhance the persuasiveness of your impromptu speech.
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Delivery: Maintain good eye contact and vary your delivery. Confidence in impromptu speaking is often key.
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Adaptability: Be ready to adapt. If a certain approach isn't working, be flexible enough to switch gears.
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Use of Time: Use your time wisely. A well-paced impromptu speech is more effective than one rushed or dragged.
BRIAN BWANYA
AGE: 24
COLLEGE: NANJING UNIVERSITY
CURRENT OCCUPANCY: STUDENT
1. What types of debates have you participated before and how long is your debate career?
I have been honored to represent my school as a first speaker back in high school at both provincial and national level during the 2019 season and participated in numerous high school debates in both Zimbabwe and South Africa.
2. How do you consider fast talking?
I prefer moderate and composed talking. Fast talking can result in poor word articulation and the judge(s) might miss a curial argument. I do not encourage debaters to use speed rather use substance to overwhelm your opponents. Quality over Quantity.
3.How do you consider aggressiveness?
It's important to present your arguments with conviction and passion but always maintain a respectful and professional approach. Keep in mind that, the main aim is to persuade others with logic and mechanism and not by intimidation or hostility.
4. How do you usually determine the winner of the debate?
Well l take into consideration many factors before determining the team which wins. The debater/team who has the most compelling argument backed with concise logic and in-depth analysis, persuasiveness and clear arguments and a team which demonstrated the strongest grasp of the topic at hand has a chance to win my vote.
5. Please specify any additional notes you want to share with debaters, including any unique preferences of the debate?
It's important for me to see clear arguments presented by both sides backed with recent and relevant evidence. I also prefer debaters who are able to remain calm and collected during the debate by avoiding personal attacks or insults even derogatory language. Lastly, stick to the topic and avoid tangents or irrelevant arguments that do not directly relate to the topic.
GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I graduated from Public Communication in Newhouse College, Syracuse University. I participated in NHSDLC during high school and won the Champion in 2018 Guangzhou Regional. I have judged several debates tournaments before. For the debate, I would like to hear more about your logic path and complete arguements. Building a stable framework as the base of your debate is also important. Also, I prefer if you can speak clearly and fluently instead of quickly. Good luck!
General：
- Don’t make assertions, always back your statements up with cards and warrants, with analysis the best. Whatever you say in a debate pls make sure it has evidence.
- Evidence is important to my judgments, but logic matters more. I would prefer you debate from both logical and evidential perspectives.
- For me each speaker will have 5 more seconds at the end of each speech to finish up if exceeded then I’ll interrupt.
- Speak fast as long as it’s clear. Don’t mumble words and expect me to hear everything.
Crossfire:
- You are allowed to interrupt during crossfire. But I don’t accept very rude debaters, and I'm not able to judge if everybody is talking over each other. Please don’t run crossfire into your own rebuttal speech or summary, be sure it is used efficiently.
- Please challenge your opponent whenever you think there is a mistake in their cards. It will be very compelling to me if you can turn a card over.
Summary/Final Focus:
- I would like an organized summary speech with clear clash points and impact weighing.
- I don’t recommend bringing up too many new cards during the summary (and no new cards at the final focus) because it's more about showing me how you have won. Instead, you should focus more on linking back to your team’s FW, constructive, and rebuttal.
Name: JUDGE PIUS
I am Pius Mwangi, an experienced debate judge with a preference for moderate-paced speakers. My background includes active participation in both junior and senior debates during high school, which has provided me with a profound understanding of debate dynamics and argumentation techniques. As a judge, I prioritize fair and impartial evaluation, assessing debates based on the strength of arguments, the quality of evidence, and effective communication. I appreciate a balance between substance and style, valuing both strong arguments and engaging delivery. Relevance to the topic is crucial in my assessments, and I emphasize clarity, logical coherence, use of evidence, and rebuttal skills. I am dedicated to providing constructive feedback to help debaters improve, and I am meticulous about timekeeping to ensure fairness. Beyond judging, I am committed to mentoring and supporting young debaters, nurturing their persuasive communication skills and passion for debate.
1. How many tournaments have you judged in the past year?
6-10 TOURNAMENTS
2. How many notes do you take during a debate?
I TRY TO TAKE NOTES ON EVERYTHING
3. What is the main job of the summary speech?
HIGHLIGHT THE MAJOR POINTS OF CLASH AND SHOW HOW YOUR TEAM WON THEM
ON A SCALE OF 1–10.
4. How important is defining the topic to your decision-making?
5
5. How important is framework to your decision making?
3
6. How important is cross-fire in your decision-making?
7
7. How important is weighing in your decision-making?
9
8. How important are persuasive speaking and non-verbal communication in your decision-making?
8
9. How fast should students speak?
FAST PACED IS OKAY, BUT I PREFER MODERATE SPEAKING AS IT EASIER FOR ME TO NOTE ALL THE MAJOR POINTS IN YOUR ARGUMENTS AND TO FOLLOW THROUGH.
Tinaye Tsinakwadi
Tournaments judged in the past year
- more than 11 tournaments in the past year
- seasoned judge (+5 years of judging experience)
How many notes I take during the debate
- I try to take notes on everything.
- Details are essential to me, and I will analyze every major contention and write it down.
The main job of the summary speech
- Highlight major points of the clash and show how your team won.
- I prefer for summary speeches to be in retrospect of the entire debate.
- So less about raising arguments, but rather putting arguments to rest.
On a scale of 1-10, How important is defining the topic to my decision making (2)
- Unless it is an addition on top of the common definition.
- I prefer the standard definition, not arguing over technicalities.
How important is a framework to my decision making (5)
- more concerned with the consistency of your framework
- is it aligning well with your arguments
- can I trace back your decision-making to that framework etc?
How important is crossfire in my decision making (6)
- mostly using it to validate your arguments.
- use it to check whether your points hold weight.
- also to see which contention is better, should they clash.
- can be more crucial, in checking whether you can stand by your arguments, in the face of opposition.
How important is weighing in my decision making (8)
- Being able to compare and contrast is important to me.
- I need to know you can address your opponent's points and still show why yours are more important.
How important is persuasive speaking and non-verbal communication in my decision-making (2)
- It's better to sell your arguments.
- I encourage you to do it but won't penalize you if you don't.
How fast should students speak (7)
- I don't mind speed, but be eloquent and deliver your arguments well.
- If you are taking gasps of air, you are speaking too fast between speeches.
- Slightly above average would be the ideal speed for me.
I look out for objectiveness, evidence, and the capacity to rebut well to make
my decision. I believe every debater stands an equal chance to win a debate no matter which side he or
she is on.
Debaters must make sure they are not only attacking their opponent’s claims but also defending theirs to win clashes.
Including evidence from currents happenings to justify your point can increase your chances of winning a clash
Leaving your opponent’s points unrebutted may score your opponent some points in my evaluation.
1. Debate career?
I have previous judging experience with NHSDLC the past several mothns. Judging PF online and offline tournaments.
2. Fast-talking?
Fast-talking can be impressive and effective in some cases, but it can also be overwhelming and difficult to follow for some people. As a general rule, I prefer a moderate speaking pace is preferable as it allows the debater to communicate their points clearly and ensures that I can follow along.
3. Aggressiveness?
Aggressiveness can be useful in some debates, particularly when the topic is emotionally charged or controversial. However, it's important to maintain a respectful and professional tone, even when challenging an opponent's arguments, also ensuring your points are well delivered. Personal attacks or insults or gestures like throwing hands when an opponent is speaking are never acceptable and can undermine the credibility of the debater.
4. Determining the winner of the debate?
To determine the winner of a debate, I consider several factors, including the coherence and accuracy of the arguments presented, the quality of the evidence provided, and the persuasiveness of the debater's delivery, not forgetting well argued out logical responses.
I do not admit new arguments in the summary speech. Any supplementary information included in your summary speech won't garner extra points. Your role is to consolidate the main points of conflict in this round, facilitating a better understanding of the issues that have been discussed.
In general, the debater who can provide the strongest and most well-supported argument, while also successfully rebutting their opponent's points, is likely to win the debate.
Ultimately, the goal of a debate is to engage in a respectful and informative exchange of ideas, and the winner is the one who best achieves that goal.
I coach Public Forum and British Parliamentary debate at the National High School Debate League of China.
Time each other including each other’s prep time
Please email me the speech docs & any evidence read : sunny@debatersdiary.cn
I hope you please share the evidence you’re reading with your opponent before the round so half of the round isn’t “can I have this specific card” (it ruins the flow/pace of the round) thanks! I would run disclosure theory every round. It makes debate more fair & outweighs if someone runs your case against you/your school as you should know how to block it anyway.
When I judge debate, I flow throughout the round. I appreciate debaters who take time to crystallize, weigh arguments/clearly and emphasize impacts.
I like to see teams:
- Sharing cases/evidence with your opponent/the judge before your speeches/rebuttals; there should be no conditions on your opponent having access to your evidence.
- Enunciating clearly throughout the round.
-Having explicit voters. Substance is key. Signpost throughout.
- I am not familiar with kritiks.
- And again, delivery matters and being monotone gets tiring after judging rounds throughout the day so practice, practice.
I dislike:
- Any form of discrimination, including bigoted language and ableist actions (such as using pace as a way to exclude opponents who are new to circuit).
- Also ad homs against your opponent such as insulting their clothing or practices, and attacks against an opponent's team or school. Don't yell. Be kind.
- I have noticed lately more and more debaters trailing off in volume as they go; ideally I don't like to have to motion the "I can't hear you or slow down" sign throughout the round.
- Non-verbal reactions when your opponent is speaking (e.g., making faces, throwing up your hands, rapid "no" shaking).
Speaker points:
Be as clear as you can.
1. Judge’s Name :Mutsa Mufaro
2. Tell us about your debate judging experience.
a. I have never judged debate before.
b. I have judged debate for less than a year and this is my first time judging Public Forum.
c. I have judged debate for less than a year and have judged Public Forum before.
d. I have judged debate for more than a year, but Public Forum for less than a year.
e. I have judged Public Forum debate for more than a year.
3. Tell us about your debating experience.
a. I have never debated competitively before.
b. I debated Public Forum for less than a year.
c. I debated other formats for less than a year.
d. I have debated Public Forum for more than a year.
e. I have debated other formats for more than a year, but not Public Forum.
4. What is your speaking speed preference?
a. Deliberate speed (100-120wpm)
b. Conversational speed (120-150wpm)
c. TED talk speed (150-200wpm)
d. Fast speed (200+wpm)
5. How much do you know about the topic?
a. I coach debate and have researched this topic
b. I have professional-level knowledge about this topic.
c. I regularly read news about this topic. It’s an interest of mine.
d. I pay attention to this topic, but I don’t go out of my way to know about it.
e. I have no idea about the topic. Please make sure I understand things.
6. Do you think the second rebuttal speaker should be expected to respond directly to the first rebuttal speaker (frontlining)?
a. Yes, if the second rebuttal doesn’t respond to the first rebuttal I consider it a dropped
argument
b. No, the second speaker rebuttal is only responsible for answering the first constructive
c. I’m not sure.
d. Other (please specify)
7. How important is the flow (your notes) in making your decision? What do you write down in your notes?
a. It’s very important. I take lots of notes and make my decision based almost entirely based on my
notes.
b. It’s somewhat important. I use my notes to aid me in making my decision.
c. It’s not that important. I tend to judge the debate more wholistically.
d. Other (Please Specify)
8. What factors go into your decision as to who wins the debate?
I decide who wins the debate by looking at how well a team presents theirarguments and counters their opponents. I pay attention to the strength of theirpoints and how they respond to the other side's arguments.I enter a debate witha blank mind, setting aside my prior knowledge and personal opinions. My
judgment is solely based on the arguments and information presented by thedebaters.
9. Is there anything else you would like the debaters to know about you?
Take the time to thoroughly analyze and counter your opponents' arguments.Point out any fallacies or weaknesses in their reasoning. Additionally debatesshould be respectful and focus on the substance of arguments rather thanpersonal attacks. I believe constructive and respectful exchanges lead to a more
meaningful debate experience. Lastly fast talking is fine, but it becomes aproblem when speakers talk so fast that their points can't be heard. It's importantto find a balance between speaking quickly and being understandable, so that asa judge I can follow and understand what's being said. Speaking too fast shouldn't
make the message hard to understand.