I’m a parent judge - take that as you will. My daughter participates in LD and Parli debate, so I’m very familiar with the debate flow.

Quality > quantity.

Don’t spread or read incredibly fast. You’ll lose speaker points and chances are that I won’t be able to understand you.

Have fun!

Been associated as Judge and Volunteer for little over 2 years. I like to provide good learning opportunity, promote good education and experience for participants. As Judge, I look for clean speech, well articulated arguments with right data points supporting arguments, ability to counter the opponent team's data points, most importantly all with simplicity. Presenting themselves is key. I also promote the culture of learning the topic and presenting it with good understanding, rather just reading the materials prepared.

I also see this learning opportunity for myself, to learn from the kids. It is great platform for us, not be part of the debate rather stay outside and learn without emotions.

Encourage all to participate and learn. Happy learning!

Regardless of speech or debate, all competitors should emulate good sportsmanship and be respectful during the competition. Examples of what this means:

> Paying attention while your opponent/competitor is presenting. (NOT goofing off on your phone or talking with a friend in the room).

> Being respectful and courteous, whether after a presentation or during debate cross-fires.

Debate Event Specific: Clear articulated and respectful debates. The pace of speaking should not be so rapid that the judge cannot clearly discern arguments being made. Additionally, while debate clashing is key, debate is still an exercise of public speaking, so be mindful of presentation skills.