Last changed on
Fri November 6, 2020 at 9:02 PM EDT
Short version:
I'm a tech judge with 3 years of PF and LD experience. I don't like spreading too much especially in this new format, but I won't count it against you if you do. I'm a firm believer in inclusivity inside and outside of the debate space, accordingly no homophobia, xenophobia, racism, ableism, sexism, ethnocentrism, etc. is tolerated.
Long Version:
I have 3 years of experience with high school debate, doing both PF and LD. With that said I prefer debaters to be as clear and efficient as possible, your speaker points will reflect that.
Basic Expectations: No new in the two. I require signposting in all relevant speeches and I want a general order prior to the latter half speeches if the debate involved multiple offs. Time yourselves and each other but respectfully.
Clash: Debate is all about the clash and interaction between your arguments and the arguments of your opponents, accordingly I want to see clash or interaction with arguments as long as they are in the realm of the evidence provided. If evidence or arguments do not directly clash, it makes it hard for me to evaluate which argument has a greater or more profound impact.
No clash = boring debate and I'm probably going to pay less attention feelsbad :(
Weighing: Please weigh your arguments. Impacts mean absolutely nothing unless they have been contextualized with respect to the impacts of your opponent. If you do weigh make sure that you clearly outline weighing mechanisms and why that argument is either more important or outweighs your opponent's arguments. To be clear: I will not do any work for you, nothing is implied, if there is no weighing the argument might effectively not exist because I have not been told why it matters.
Card Calling/ Evidence: I call for cards; cards that are called out by your opponents, cards that seem sketchy, cards that seem like they say too much will all be called for. If the indicted piece of evidence does not say what it is supposed to, I will drop ALL related arguments and significantly tank speaker points. MAKE SURE YOUR CARDS ARE CUT PROPERLY SO I DON'T HAVE AN ANEURYSM READING A 20 PAGE PDF TRYING TO FIND WHAT'S IMPORTANT!!!
Progressive Argumentation: I am fine with most progressive argumentation but I would prefer topical debates because they allow for less squirrelly routes to the ballot. It has been a while since I've interacted with theory in rounds so I will try my best to keep up. Kritiks are welcomed as long as they are preceded by trigger warnings for necessary topics. Plans are welcomed but they should be properly constructed or else they became hard to follow, make sure plan text is clear. Pre-fiat + Post-fiat impacts are welcome as long as they are weighed properly.
Extra, Important Stuff: Inclusivity in the debate space is important. Please respect the pronouns of your opponents and remember that your behavior is a reflection of not only your own character but also your debate team/program. Thus, no homophobia, xenophobia, racism, ableism, sexism, ethnocentrism, etc. is tolerated. Please be respectful to your opponent; as a debater, I understand that crossX can be difficult to stay polite in, so as long as vitriol is avoided we will be fine. Lastly, I want to see debaters have fun. It's not always about winning, even though that is the competitive environment that is created/pushed by schools and coaches; no matter how many tournaments I won or broke at, the joy was always secondary to having a good time with my team, try to enjoy the experience!
