SPAR Rules

SPAR Rules

SPAR is Spontaneous Argumentation. It is a 1 vs 1 debate of 10 minutes. The Proposition speaker receives two resolutions: one serious (eg, It is time for Oregon to institute a sales tax.) and one not serious (eg, Jello is superior to Play-Doh.) The Prop speaker selects the resolution and sets the tone. Will the debate be serious or absurdist? We love SPAR. It was originally created by our friends at Ridgefield High School. Here is a detailed description:

Spontaneous Argumentation (also known as SPAR): A 10 minute debate performed without advanced preparation. The format will be as follows: The affirmative and the negative will be given two topics. At the end of a one minute preparation period, the affirmative will begin to debate on one of the two topics. The affirmative is allotted a two minute constructive speech followed by a one minute cross-examination. The negative will then have one minute to prepare a two minute constructive speech which will be followed by a one minute cross-examination. Both speakers will then be allowed one minute for rebuttal without preparation time. The tone of the debate (serious or light-hearted) will be set by the first speaker. The second speaker should use the same tone.

Prop prep 1 minute

Prop Case 2 minutes

Opp Cross-Exam 1 minute

Opp Prep 1 minute

Opp Case 2 minutes

Prop Cross-Exam 1 minute

Opp Rebuttal 1 minute

Prop Rebuttal 1 minute