Charger Challenge
2024 — Draper, UT/US
Spar (Friday)
Event Description:
Spontaneous Argumentation
Overview: Spontaneous Argumentation is commonly referred to as SpAr, which is an on-the-spot argument between two competitors. Rounds are assigned with 6-8 competitors and the judge pairs them randomly at the beginning of the round. Before two competitors start, give them one slip of paper - they then have to agree on which of the three listed topics on the paper they will use as their topic. Once a paper has been used, it should not be used again. Topics can vary wildly, but they will be common knowledge topics that can be easily argued without the use of evidence, since none can be prepared for or gathered during the round.
Judging this event is based on how well a student can argue their case with only one minute of preparation before the round begins. The judge doesn't determine who wins each round, the judge determines who the best speaker was and ranks the competitors in the round based on speaking ability rather than by win-loss record.
Before Judging:
- Collect the envelope with the Spar topics inside to use during the round.
- Have paper and pen/pencil ready to take notes.
- Have your timer ready - see the speech time limits below.
During Judging:
- Take notes on organization, presentation, and ability to think on their feet.
- Identify positive and negative comments so that you have enough information post-round to determine the appropriate rankings for the speakers in the round. If a competitor is a no-show, allow someone to compete for a second time against the odd man out. Only count their first speech toward their rankings - if they compete a second time to give a competitor a chance to speak, the second round doesn't count for or against their original round.
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