TimberCat Classic

2026 — Bentonville, AR/US

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Big Questions

Event Description:

2026–2027 Topic: Resolved: Technological progress has surpassed humanity's ability to use it ethically. Core Format & Structure

• Team Size: Students can compete as individuals or pairs (1v1, 2v2, or 1v2).
• Topic Duration: A single resolution is debated for an entire school year.
• Side Assignment: Sides (Affirmative or Negative) are assigned before each round.
• Judges: Rounds are often judged by everyday members of the community and general public rather than specialized debate critics.

Round Segments

• Constructive Speeches: 5 minutes each (Affirmative first, then Negative) to present main arguments (contentions), definitions, and frameworks.
• Question Period: 3 minutes of cross-examination/questions between speakers (Affirmative asks/answers first).
• Rebuttal Speeches: 4 minutes each to attack opponent points and defend your own case.
• Question Period: 3 minutes of additional questions.
• Consolidation Speeches: 3 minutes each to synthesize core disputes.
• Rationale Speeches: 3 minutes each to deliver final summaries explaining why the judge should vote for their side.
• Prep Time: Each debater receives 3 minutes of discretionary prep time (not to be used during speeches).