Olle Owl Middle School Invitational

2026 — Houston, TX/US

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World Schools Debate

Event Description:

Motions:

Round 1: This House supports the use of de-extinction technology.

Info Slide: Last year American-based Colossal Biosciences announced that they had “de-extincted” the dire wolf. Created from a combination of preserved DNA and gene editing technology, the dire wolf puppies represent the first in a growing attempt to bring back lost species through modern technology.

Round 2: This House supports the use of de-extinction technology. (Teams will debate the opposite side of the motion.)

Round 3: Impromptu Motion

Semifinals (if necessary): Impromptu Motion

Final: Impromptu Motion

Times: Speaking and preparation times will be shortened for middle school students:

First Proposition: 5 minutes

First Opposition: 5 minutes

Second Proposition: 5 minutes

Second Opposition: 5 minutes

Third Proposition: 5 minutes

Third Opposition: 5 minutes

Opposition Reply: 3 minutes

Proposition Reply: 3 minutes

Teams will receive 30 minutes to prepare for impromptu rounds. However, teams do not receive prep time during a world schools debate round.

Rules: NSDA rules will be used.

In world schools debate, students may not use electronic storage or retrieval devices. If a team uses electronic devices during a debate round or during an impromptu preparation period, they will automatically receive a loss for that round. (Please note: A mobile phone in airplane mode can be used for timing only.)

During the preparation time for the impromptu rounds, students can have a dictionary and a one-volume encyclopedia or almanac. They cannot access the internet, text messages, or any previously-prepared materials, including speeches and flows from previous rounds. Additionally, they cannot consult anyone (coaches included) outside their 3-5 person team.