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2020 — Classrooms.cloud, TX/US
Async IE's Paradigm List
All Paradigms: Show HidePref. IE, Speaking
Hi! I’m Tayller Colwell and I competed in Speech and Debate for 3 years. I competed in IE events only, I am a 2x state qualifier, 2x state quarter finalist and a semi finalist.
When judging IE:
I’m looking at the piece, how well it is executed, chemistry within the piece and performer, how well the performer understands the piece. Technicality, did the performer follow all the rules and regulations while performing.
Did the performer go to the next level with their piece? Was their creativity, originality and was it clean?
When judging debate:
We’re there arguments well thought out? Do they remain on topic? Are speeches well constructed and respectable?
Do they have enough sources to back up their information
Pronouns: She/Her
Hi I'm Emma! I competed for Lindale High School Fall 2016-Spring 2020 with almost all IEs and speaking events(POI being my focus). I was a TFA state semifinalist, TOC quarterfinalist, and a 3x NSDA qualifier to give you some background on my experience in IEs. I currently attend The University of North Texas. Here is a list of some things that strike my fancy(in no particular order):
INTERP(DI, HI, POI, PO, PR, DUO, DA, etc):
1) POLISHED! It's easy to tell how much work someone has put into their program. I want to see the effort and love you have given into your piece.
2) PASSION! When I was in high school, interp was a way that I could express my passions in an artistic way. When I can hear, see, feel your passion, I will inherently connect more with your piece.
3) CHARACTERIZATION! If your piece has more than one character, I want to be able easily tell the difference. Whether that is a physical change, vocal change, or both, make sure that your audience knows who, what, why, etc. While it is not a necessity, bold and unique characters are also something I look for.
SPEAKING(OO, INFO) :
1) Again, POLISHED! In prepared speaking events especially, a polished speaking style can easily be something that sets you apart from other competitors. A few stumbles here and there are no biggie, but your overall presentation should be well-prepared.
2) UNIQUENESS! There are definitely trends that exist in all s&d events, so it's refreshing to listen to a speech about something other than those trendy topics.
3) RESEARCH! It's a given that all speaking events require some magnitude of research, but credible, calculated, and interesting research will give you a leg up. Adding to that, I don't want to feel like I'm hearing a bunch of facts over and over again. Look for unique ways to incorporate research into your speech!
While I can say all of these things, this activity is entirely based on YOU(or you and a partner lol), so don't feel the need to conform to my expectations. That would contradict the purpose of s&d as a whole.
My biggest thing is respect for your competitors. This activity should be for lifting each other up, experiencing new things, and learning from each other!
Questions, concerns, and comments:
Edit in progress! It will reflect the fact that I have not coached policy in a few years. Still a fan, but I'm rusty on what all the cool kids are doing these days.
Policy:
I'm happy judging whatever crazy, creative argument you think you can make me believe (which you will do by providing awesome evidence, links, etc.) BUT you better enunciate those crazy arguments clearly. My number one pet peeve in policy debate is debaters who try to spread but stutter and stumble through their speeches. I can flow as fast as you can speak, but if I can't understand what you're saying, I will say "clear" once or twice, and then simply not flow what I can't understand.
I'm fine with tag-teaming in cx.
If the round is shared via email chain, I'd prefer you still make an effort to say actual words.
A few caveats to the "I'll buy anything" -
I'm fine with Ks, but it's got to be a pretty killer kritik for me to vote on one K alone - it's more likely I'll weigh it as part of a larger strategy.
PICs are abusive as they take too much affirmative ground, BUT occasionally there's a PIC that justifies the existence of PICs, and those make me happy.
Run topicality if it's justified. If it's not, and you're running four Ts as a time-suck, I won't buy any of them.
I prefer textually competitive CPs. If it's only competitive through a link to a DA, then I'm going to give it the stink eye. Never say never - I do periodically vote for arguments I claim not to like - but you better advocate for that CP really, really well.
IN summary with the PICs, Ts and CPs - just run a good, relevant argument. If you're throwing crap at the wall to see what sticks, I'm probably going to dismiss it as crap. But if you're confident it's an awesome argument, tell me why I should buy it; it's distinctly possible I will, just understand those arguments have a higher threshold for me.
Signpost, give me clear voters, be polite. When a team starts showing contempt for their opponents, I start looking for reasons to vote against them.
And have fun.
Lincoln Douglas:
Value/Value Criterion Clash - I expect you to have a clear value and value criterion, but I use them as a way to evaluate the round (framework), not as a voting issue (unless they're really, really bad, abusive, or maybe unexpectedly brilliant). Show why you meet your opponents' v/vc as well as your own, or why yours makes much more sense in context of the round, then move on. It's probably not going to be a big independent voter for me.
If you're doing circuit LD - please don't make it dumbed-down policy. Arguments still need to be fully developed, relevant to the topic, and coherently articulated.
If you're doing traditional LD - I appreciate someone who can talk pretty, I really do, but I want to see CLASH. Weigh arguments. Compare sources, and delve into what cards actually say. I like to vote for debaters who can help me see the big picture in the round, but can also weave a convincing narrative out of all the minutiae.
As with all debate - be confident, be aggressive, but don't be a jerk.
Public Forum:
I'm fine with speed in PF - but same as other debates, enunciate clearly!
More than any other debate, I expect PFers to be respectful of opponents. Be confident, be aggressive, and never show contempt.
Please maintain a consistent strategy between both partners' speeches - you need to be on the same page as to what you're going for and how you argue things. If I see two different debates from one partnership, I don't know what I'm supposed to vote for, so I'll usually vote for the other team.
Most (not all, but most) topics benefit from a framework, so have one! Tell me how to evaluate the round so I can judge the debate on what's debated, not on my preconceived notions of what's important.
I am okay with paraphrased evidence, but make sure to represent the facts and perspectives of your sources accurately. If I ask for a card after the round, I want to see the paragraph before the portion (highlighted) read, the paragraph after, and of course, the evidence itself, with all non-read portions viewable as well. Do not send or show me a 30-page journal article.
I prefer that you begin to narrow the debate in your summary speech, and then highlight voters in your final focus. Maybe that's obvious?
Anyone, good luck, have fun.
ELA Teacher - do not like spreading. If a student speaks so rapidly that they cannot be understood - it doesn't work well for me. I need to hear the arguments, evidence etc.
--Speech--
As far as extemp/oratory/informative, I look for a least some evidence to support their point or topic. However, these are speaking events so "speaking skills" are important to me (rate, diction and delivery).
When it comes to Interp, I am all about the story and the journey, regardless of humorous or dramatic. Introductions can be at the beginning or done as a teaser (whatever works). I have no specific issues with lots of technical blocking or no blocking at all...it all depends on the piece and how well it is executed. Some pieces require lots of tech and some are very simple and need almost nothing.
I am a Theatre Arts coach and a Interp Coach, so acting is the most important to me. And, I am a big fan of keeping with the author's intent. I am pretty liberal about mature material, however it has to be appropriate for the piece and needed, not just mature to get attention. I do not like it when an actor makes up things and adds to the script for no reason.
I have been a coach and consultant for the past 28 years and done every debate format available stateside and internationally. I also have taught at Stanford, ISD, Summit, UTD, UT, and Mean Green camps as a Curriculum Director and Senior Instructor. I think no matter what form of debate that you do, you must have a narrative that answers critical questions of who, what, when, where, why, how, and then what, and so what. Debaters do not need to be shy and need to be able to weigh and prioritize the issues of the day for me in what I ought to be evaluating. Tell me as a judge where I should flow things and how I ought to evaluate things. That's your job.
If you would like for me to look at a round through a policy lens, please justify to me why I ought to weigh that interpretation versus other alternatives. Conversely, if you want me to evaluate standards, those need to be clear in their reasoning why I ought to prioritize evaluation in that way.
In public forum, I need the summary to be a line by line comparison between both worlds where the stark differences exist and what issues need to be prioritized. Remember in the collapse, you cannot go for everything. Final focus needs to be a big pic concept for me. Feel free to use policy terms such as magnitude, scope, probability. I do evaluate evidence and expect you all to do the research accordingly but also understand how to analyze and synthesize it. Countering back with a card is not debating. The more complicated the link chain, the more probability you may lose your judge. Keep it tight and simple and very direct.
In LD, I still love my traditional Value and VC debate. I do really like a solid old school LD round. I am not big on K debate only because I think the K debate has changed so much that it becomes trendy and not a methodology that is truly educational and unique as it should be. Uniqueness is not the same as obscurity. Now, if you can provide a good solid link chain and evaluation method of the K, go for it. Don't assume my knowledge of the literature though because I don't have that amount of time in my life but I'm not above understanding a solidly good argument that is properly formatted. I think the quickest way to always get my vote is to write the ballot for me and also keep it simple. Trickery can make things messy. Messy debaters usually get Ls. So keep it simple, clean, solid debate with the basics of claim, warrant, impact, with some great cards and I'll be happy.
I don't think speed is ever necessary in any format so speak concisely, know how to master rhetoric, and be the master of persuasion that way. Please do not be rude to your opponent. Fight well and fight fair. First reason for me to down anyone is on burdens. Aff has burden of proof, neg has burden to clash unless it is WSD format where burdens exist on both sides to clash. If you have further questions, feel free to ask specifics.
In plat events, structure as well as uniqueness (not obscurity) is key to placing. Organization to a speech as well as a clear call to order is required in OO, Info, Persuasive. In LPs, answer the question if you want to place. Formatting and structure well an avoid giving me generic arguments and transitional phrases. Canned intros are not welcome in my world usually and will be frowned upon. Smart humor is always welcome however.
I want you all to learn, grow, have fun, and fight fair. Best of luck and love one another through this activity!!
For IEs
Introductions: be careful with simply summarizing plot in your introduction. Instead, take this opportunity to present a clear thesis/message for me to view your performance through.
Also take this opportunity to let me see a bit yourself/your personality, and avoid over-performing in the introduction. A more casual approach is preferred.
Clear arch is everything! I’ve think that vocal variety, clear shifts in mood/tone, etc. help accomplish this. I’ll usually take a strong, simple, clear story over a complicated, extravagant performance. Still, I have tons of respect for creative blocking choices.
In performances with multiple characters, make sure characters are clear and distinct. Well-rounded, dimensional characters are preferred over more two-dimensional, stereotypical characterizations.
I have loved seeing blocking that leans into, rather than ignores, the fact that we are performing virtually. Being creative with your use of space and camera is more than okay for me.
Any and all binder-tech is acceptable. Be as creative as you’d like, so long as supports the story, and doesn’t distract from the meaning of text.
For LP & PA (Extemp, OO, Info, Impromptu)
Clear structure, please! Roadmaps in the introduction are always helpful. Where you move/place yourself in your own spaces during virtual delivery helps me to follow the structure you lay out.
Vocal variety is really important to me. Keep me engaged!
I enjoy a delivery style that is more natural, and allows your personality to come through, but is still not too casual. Avoid speech patterns!
Utilizing a range of ethos, pathos, and logos throughout your speech is also important.
I appreciate evidence that surprises me, or that supports bold claims. I don’t find evidence that cites common knowledge as effective. Use evidence that furthers your argument, not just repeats it.
I enjoy a speech with a specific thesis. Careful of biting off more than you can chew in 7-10 minutes with a broad, general thesis about a really complex issue. I find that focusing on *one* aspect of a complex issue can allow the speaker more time to explore the topic and do it justice.
Topics that are current/relevant socially or politically also speak to me.
Head coach at San Angelo Central High School
Extemp:
The most important thing is that you answer the question as clearly as possible. This includes previewing your points, signposting throughout, and reviewing your points at the end that links into the conclusion. Adding a clear structure adds to the impact and value of your overall speech. It is to also help you not ramble on. It is also important to be creative with your attention getter, vehicle, and your conclusion. It will set your self apart in my eyes with creativity done well. Sources are very important, but answering the question your way is the most important, then use sources to back those up. Not the other way around. I look for all of those together and a good flow for my overall ranks.
Interp:
Everything you do in your performance must have purpose. I love creative movements, stories, and really anything as long as there is a purpose. I am ok with any theme or story being told as long as there is impact behind it. Facials, moments, and character development are all very important for the overall performance. DO everything you can to truly become your characters and be in the story you are telling. In close rooms, I always look at who does all of these things together the best.
Congress:
The most important thing in a congress room is to have a presence. Do what you need to do to stand out without personally attacking your fellow representatives. Always attack their points, speeches, and questioning to further strengthen your points, but not them personally. I look for how well you understand the legislation, how well you know the info, the impact your points have for fellow constituents, and the creativity of your speaking. You need to have passion and use points made in the round to help your own side out. I really like crystalization of points and not just continuing to repeat other people's points. Do these things and make me HAVE to put you at the top of the room.
LD:
I’m primarily an interp and speaking coach, so with that said, presentation of arguments is imperative. I still expect exceptional analysis on a substantive level, just know I judge debate as a speaking event first. The debater with the strongest link chain to access their impacts will win my ballot. The easiest way to win my ballot is in your voters section in your final speech, present your RFD for me. The less work I have to do at the end of the round the more likely it is you’ll win my ballot. Good luck and I'm excited to hear what you have to say.
Extemp:
Answering the question clearly and making it easy to follow is the most important thing for me. If you don’t structure it well and signpost your points, I could easily get lost. Speaking ability and energy are also super important to me. Tell me a story with the answer and have fun!
Interp:
Truly becoming a part of the story and characters by telling me the story you want to tell is what I look for! Any subject or story is fine as long as there is purpose behind it. Facials, actions, and moments are also super important! Creativity is awesome!! I take all of things in consideration while ranking!
Head coach at Plano East Senior High.
I enjoy judging IEs most.
In Extemp: at TFA State I will be randomly source checking 1 source per speech, let’s not be making up our sources plz
In LD, I’ve gotten much more progressive, but I tend to still favor traditional.
-I do not like Kritiks; they are generic and lazy debating - I will not vote for them. If you can run the same K all year on all the topics, that's a problem.
-On case attacks are important!
-Theory & CPs good.
-Do not read at me while giving voters.
-2AR does not necessarily have to be line-by-line.
-I understand spreading, but if you become unclear I will say "clear" once, and after that, if you do not clear your speaking, I will stop flowing, more than likely hurting your chances. 7/10 speed please. Slow down on tags please.
In PF, I’m traditional. I don’t like spreading in PF and there should definitely not be CPs, Theory, Kritiks, or anything like that.
In Policy, pretty much the same as LD above, except I have more tolerance for Ks in Policy because it is a year long topic and you have more time to read lit. I have a lot less experience in Policy than the other debate events, but I have some competitive UIL CX history and can cross apply progressive LD knowledge.
In all debates: I do not tolerate rudeness - especially in cx/crossfire. I love seeing passion in rounds, but being passionate about your topic does not mean you get to be rude. Excessive rudeness/terrible attitude results in lowest speaks possible.
Include me in on email chains: madison.gackenbach@pisd.edu
I look forward to hearing you speak!
I've got a few tournaments under my belt, and I can tell you, taking your time to clearly outline your speech goes a long way with me.
Here's what I look for: clear and concise format and flow. No speed reading, please -- no matter how good your presentation is, if I can't follow, I can't judge it properly.
Gestures that guide me through the speech are also key!
And please remember, don't be rude and have fun.
I judge LD, PFD, Congress, I.E.'s. Coached for 14 years and participated in more of the interp stuff when I was in high school, but that was a long time ago so don't hold it against me.
I am big picture for LD/PFD. I try to keep a tidy flow. I like solvency but don't necessarily need to vote on it if the resolution doesn't call for offense. I will vote on progressive or theory if steps are clearly defined throughout. I dislike spreading as it's not necessary. I frown upon evaluating specific cards as RFD because I don't know the authors' mindsets most of the time. I'm cool with Disads and CPs in PFD at TFA tournaments but avoid them for NSDA. In PFD, you should prefer using weighing mechanisms for your actual case instead of frontlining responses to your opponent. Students who use "kick the case and focus on responses" in PFD should probably just switch to LD or CX if they want to debate long-term. For speaker points, I typically start everyone out at the max and deduct from there, but because of their arbitrary nature, I don't have huge variances or decimals.
Congress: know your parliamentary procedure and role in the chamber. At TFA tournaments, I typically give 3's for decent attempts at a speech with some sources and some reading. 6's are very rare for me. I know that's tougher than other judges, but it doesn't affect ranks. Another thing to consider for Congress is your role of politicking. I think Congress should be treated as a competition in which the participants are able to speak on either side of legislation without regard to what other competitors are able to/going to do. That means you can "steal" a speech from someone who was waiting for their turn as part of the round, and I won't rank you down if you do a good job. Direct questioning should be concise and meaningful, not just an attempt to throw your own 2 cents in. Presiding officers don't auto-break from prelims; you need to be outstanding and any flubs or parliamentary procedure errors will result in lower hourly scores.
World Schools: I'm new to it but I tend to treat it sort of like my speaker points for PFD and LD. I start everyone out high and then work my way down. I'm less attentive about POI's because I'm usually listening/writing, so I don't mind if you're trying more than 10 times to request them.
Public Speaking: Conversational delivery necessary. I'm more of an "appeal to logos" guy than "appeal to pathos" in Extemp, so save the emotional pleas for things like Oratory instead. I will rank down if you're trying to push the grace period as part of the speech in general. I don't mind canned intros in Extemp, but at least connect to the prompt. Oratory should follow a clear format like "problem, effects, solutions" and not be a personal venting session. Informative speeches MUST have visual aids; considering it's the only real event that showcases one's ability to inform in this manner, I think you should prioritize all types of measures to inform the audience.
Interp: Teasers and/or cold opens are necessary and the prepared intro should follow a format that gets the audience to understand WHY you chose the piece. Characterizations must be consistent. Be cautious and selective about how you employ accents around me (i.e. not everyone is southern or from Long Island). I frustrate during thematic pieces like poetry or POI if I can't tell which selection you're on. Build upon the theme in the prepared intro and fully list the authors and selections instead of just saying "a program."
Alison Ho (she/her) Paradigms:
I competed in Congress, Extemp, Duet, Duo, LD, OO, Prose, and PF at some point in my debate career for Cypress Park High, and am now a college student at Michigan State University.
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IE's:
-DI/HI/Poetry/POI/Prose:
I'll be looking at your emotion (voice and facial expressions), intonation, and movements.
Emotions in your voice will be your friend. If you keep the same emotion and intonation throughout your piece, I'll get bored. I want inflections in your tone, I want to see you immerse yourself in your characters. Example: if it's a sad piece, make me cry.
Speaking of characters, I want them to be distinguishable otherwise confusion happens and I'll get lost.
Give me some energy and confidence in your story. A decrease in confidence is also a decrease in my focus, fake it till you make it.
Keep my attention throughout will the aforementioned.
Watch your hand movements and body language. Keep all movements purposeful and meaningful.
-Duet/Duo:
My partner and I qualified and competed in the 2020 TFA State Tournament for Duo.
Same for the events above.
I'll also be looking at how well you and your partner work together. Example: I love synchronized movements and words.
-Extemp:
I competed in Extemp in both TFA and UIL tournaments.
Give me the information in a clear, concise, and organized manner.
I usually look for around 4-7 pieces of evidence. More is always good, less is not so much.
Every movement = purposeful and meaningful.
-Info/OO:
I love jokes and creativity to keep me focused.
Mainstream or overused topics should be presented in a way that is different than all the others.
Speech must be presented in a clear, concise, and organized manner that makes it easy to follow.
Inflections and tone of voice must not be consistent. I want them strategically placed.
Every movement = purposeful and meaningful.
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Debate:
-LD:
I highly dislike spreading, as in, you can talk as fast as you want as long as it's understandable to your opponent and me, and you aren't hyperventilating between words when you're catching your breath. I want you to be clear and concise. Seriously, I'm a college student in Zoom classes all day, cut me some slack.
I am a more traditional LD debater, so I want value and value criterion. Though theory and k are okay too, anything other will require some extreme explanation for me to be able to follow, but I want you to be comfortable.
I'll be judging based on how well you maintain your arguments and clash. To be honest, as long as your opponent and I can follow along, then all's good.
I want you both to be respectful, especially during CX: don't cut each other off, but if they are droning on for too long, you may intervene.
Framework, roadmaps, and voters = a happy judge.
-PF:
My PF is a little rusty, but I am familiar with the event.
I dislike spreading, be clear and concise with your arguments and speeches. Talking fast is okay as long as your opponents and I can follow along.
I love CX and clash. As long as the clash is respectful: don't cut each other off, but if they are taking up time for too long, you may intervene respectfully.
I like specific arguments over generic arguments. Give me examples instead of a general statement.
I debated policy for three years in high school. I am a policymaker and expect you to weigh the round. Tell me why you win and/or outweigh the other team. I believe topicality is important and, if blatantly nontopical, I will vote for it. I have debated in fast rounds and judged fast rounds but I PREFER a more slow to moderate speed round. Case debate is important and more clash/turns the better. Kritiks and CPs are fine but convince me why you win it. Have not judged a lot of Ks so please be very concise in explaining it to me. Be clear on your sign posting. I love and will listen to your CX - I don’t mind open CX. I value your arguments equally with your passion and speaking skills. Your final rebuttal should tell me why you win! Reading a bunch of pre-written arguments or analytics doesn’t do much for me. You can impress me if you do line by line. cmhund@hotmail.com
Experience: placed top 32 in policy debate at NCFL nationals, was Kansas 4-speaker state debate champion, was Kansas 2 speaker debate state champion class 4A
I was an assistant forensics coach for 10+ years in Kansas at Blue Valley Southwest. Placed top three in sweeps in class 5A twice.
Overview: I was a policy debater from KCMO circuit with Pembroke (class of '19). Qualified to NSDA Nats in policy.
General: Feel free to run any args you want, as long as it's clear you understand what you're saying. I'll be able to handle it as long as you provide overviews and explanations. I won't vote for an arg without a warrant/impact. Proper impact calc and framing are a must. Quality > quantity. Don't think sending me a speech doc is a reason to stop enunciating. Tech > truth. You should be writing my ballot for me. CLASH IS KEY.
Speed: Speed is fine. I won't bother flowing if you aren't clear. Keep it simple and go down the flow. Pay attention to what I’m doing (having a computer doesn’t mean you can’t make eye contact) eg if I stop flowing.
Affs: I don't have much experience with K affs, but I don't have anything against them. I've always preferred policy affs.
Disads/CPs: Love them. Down for anything (e.g. topical CPs) but be ready to debate theory on it.
T: Spicy stuff. Love a good T debate, as long as args are well warranted. Don't just yell "reasonability" at me.
Theory: Even spicier stuff. But don't just spread blocks to overload your speech.
*Ask if you want to know anything else*
IMPORTANT: I will automatically vote you down if you are rude, disrespectful, yell over your opponents, or act sexist/racist/discriminatory in any sort of way. I believe in morality in debate. Don’t be a horrible person just to win, because you won’t win my ballot.
I prefer a resolution of debate issues in the round and speaking skills when I judge debate. Be organized. Use structure and roadmaps. Be clear when you speak -- enunciate.
In CX I fall under policy or stock issues when I am making decisions. At the end of the round when I sign my ballot, your plan is in action. That means that aff must have a developed plan in the round. Don't just read evidence in a round. Explain your arguments.
In LD, I am a traditional judge. You must have a value and criterion. You need a philosophy and philosopher in the round. Weigh the round in your speeches.
PF/LD: I will normally judge based off of the round. Okay with speed. Prefer it if you don't run theory arguments.
Interp: I will take piece selection into account. Prefer more versatile pieces that display a wider range of skill and talent.
Speaking Events: I will count evidence and fluency breaks. I will also keep track of how evenly your time is distributed. I would also appreciate some humor - more in Original Oratory, less in extemporaneous speaking events.
Updated 11/2/2021 for The Hebron Standard
Background
Hebron High School, 2016-2020. I did NCX for one year, debated in VPF for ~three years, and have done Congressional Debate once or twice as a filler. I've been judging for a year now.
Quick Notes
If you don't want to read the whole thing because it's five minutes before round, I'm tabula rasa, tech > truth. Give me reasons to believe your arguments and warrant clearly. I'll probably vote for whoever has the more robust and fleshed out arg at the end of the round.
I'll nod at you if I like the way you're taking the round, if I look really unamused with you, that's not a good thing. Humor, when appropriate, scores you big points with me.
Concessions can be as easy as, "we concede the delink, onto our next argument", don't waste time explaining an argument you're not going to focus on.
I don't believe in open cross, the first two crossfires should be one on one only. Mainly because I like to see what individual team members know, strong case and topic knowledge in crossfire is always fun to see. I also don't like flex prep, but if both teams agree to it before the round, it can happen.
Second speaking team has to respond to the first rebuttal (particularly turns) or the arguments are dropped.
If you want to run super technical theory args, I can follow them, but I am not receptive. This is Public Forum, your arguments should be accessible to a layman. Strike me if this is your plan. That being said, there is a place for theory. If there is legitimate in-round abuse with a non-frivolous harm, go for it.
If you read theory against novices I'm dropping you.
If you flip second and proceed to read a weird/substantially non-standard or non-topical framework, I will be very, very receptive to in-round abuse args your opponents make against you. If you want to do this, flip first, flip side or strike me.
I'll usually default util on framework unless I think another one is better for a specific topic. If you provide an alternative framework I'll probably go with it. If you want me to default to the listed framework don't bother reading framework. Default frameworks for specific topics are below.
Novcember Blockchain: Utilitarian
!!! - Virtual Accommodations and Regulations
I don't really know how tournaments are going to go given the prevailing circumstances in the world right now, but there's a few things that I'll probably do differently given the different format.
- You'll probably get high speaks, if whatever service we're using is having problems or if I can't understand what you're saying due to internet lag/poor mic quality I will request your speech doc so I can follow along.
- No need to dress up, really. You're probably at home, don't make yourself uncomfortable for my benefit.
- I can flip a coin on my end, one team can call it.
- Since I'm not available IRL for post-rounding I'll provide an email you can contact me at on the ballot if you have any further questions that come up after the round. Please be specific in your questions. I usually answer general "what could I have done better" things on the ballot.
- Unless tournament regulations specify another method to take, each team will get one 'tech resolution period' (i'm not creative with names) that they can use if someone gets disconnected or there are serious audio problems. Signal in the text chat, and I'll pause the round. You detail the problem to me and try to fix it, debate resumes from the start of the speech with time reset after the issue is fixed. If I find that teams are using this as a tactic to interrupt speeches, I will revoke it. If I find that you're cheating on prep by lying about tech problems, I'm going to be livid. These are already bad circumstances, please just try to be respectful and only ask for a pause during someone's speech if it is absolutely critical. This doesn't apply if I'm on a panel.
PF PARADIGM
- Coin Flip: Do it outside, or in the round. I don't care which. Or, if you can agree on sides/positions, that works too. The faster you chose sides and we can get to what matters, the better.
- Disclosing: I will almost always disclose and give my RFD following the round unless the tournament has specifically prohibited me from doing so. When you leave the room you'll know who won, if I'm not allowed to disclose I'll write as much as I can on the ballot. Feel free to ask questions about my decision. I think it's important for teams to understand why I decided the round the way I did, and having people ask questions is a great way to ensure that I'm doing my job as an evaluator well. I'm also receptive to post rounding, as long as you're respectful about it.
- Crossfire: Being overly aggressive in cross will not affect me, but it will affect your speaker points. Try to be respectful. The first speaking team should always get the first question in all crossfires unless they concede it. Second speaking teams already have massive structural advantages in the round, and I don't think crossfire should be another.
- “Clear”: If your opponent is going too fast, I’m fine if you say clear to get them to slow down. Abusing this will lead to a sharp decline in your speaker points, and possibly a lost round. I will clear you when you're either going too fast, mumbling, or any other circumstance where I can't understand you. If you have a heavy accent/stutter don't worry, I will do my best to accommodate that, but I may require your speech doc to follow along.
How I Evaluate Rounds
- Extremely tech > truth. If you run something, and if your opponents don't challenge it, it flows through and I'll consider it when I vote. I prefer more unique arguments in general, but if your stock argument makes more sense than your opponent's arg that impacts out to nuke war (somehow), that should be really easy for you to dismantle.
- With tech > truth in mind, probability still matters. I'll value an outlandish argument with like zero probability if your opponents don't contest it, but if they can show how their impacts are more probable, they'll win that weighing issue. If you don't want me to weigh that way, give me a reason not to.
- Collapse on arguments! If you don't, it makes for a messy flow and muddles the weighing at the end. You should start collapsing as early as summary. I need a clear voting issue that has been weighed against your opponents' by the end of the round. Extending smaller stuff like turns in conjunction with your main arg is fine, but if you just put a bunch of impacts on my flow without any weighing, I have to do that myself. If my RFD is your Final Focus, and your Final Focus mirrors the summary, you've done your job perfectly.
- I'll call for cards following rounds if a dispute comes up over a particular piece of evidence during the debate, or if I believe one team is misrepresenting a piece of evidence. If I do find out that you've totally misrepresented/fabricated a piece of evidence, I'm giving you a loss, min speaks, talking to your coach, and the tournament organizer. Don't do it.
- In addition, if your opponents ask for a piece of evidence, you must present it in the form they ask for. If they ask for the full article/pdf and you only have access to the cut card form, I will drop that evidence based on their request.
- Underview > Overview for weighing, but you can structure your case however you like.
- I try to give speaker points based on team strategy, and my absolute minimum is a 27 unless you do something especially egregious. (dropping your case w/o any turns to go on, etc.) If your strategy makes sense you shouldn't need to worry about speaks, just debate.
- Extending arguments should be full. I’m way more likely to extend something on my flow that is clearly and well warranted and explained than a blippy “Extend Card Name, Year”. You literally don't have to extend the card author names or dates, extending the warranting and actual argument is way way more important to me.
CONGRESS PARADIGM
I'll judge your congress round like a debate round. Speeches should have clash and references to other speeches, and questions should serve to effectively poke holes, help out someone on the same side of the bill as you, or to set up an argument that you intend to make.
CX / LD PARADIGM
If you see me sitting in the back of your room in a CX or LD round, I kinda sorta know what I'm doing. A little. In all seriousness, I did CX for a year and am familiar with the argumentation involved and how to effectively evaluate a CX round. I do have problems understanding unclear spreading, but if you put me on the email chain / flash / share your docs with me or just make it so I can hear you and slow down on tags there shouldn't be a problem.
- Current Forensics Coach at Pembroke Hill, 7 years of coaching experience and 7 years of competitive experience between NSDA and Collegiate Speech and Debate
- Flay-lay judge. Lightly flow to follow the debate and issues.
- Moderate-low speed preference.
- Voters in final speeches are appreciated.
- Policy- will vote strongly on issues of topicality and relevance to the debate.
CX:
Most of my debate experience is in CX. I debated in high school and judge in college, however, I do not have much exposure to the 2022 topic.
I am a tab judge, prefer tech over truth, and I am okay with spreading but clarity over speed (be clear on tags). Most of my ballot will come down to weighing impacts of each arg, so please keep that in mind.
Use your rebuttals to tell me what to vote on nd why at the end of the round.
I do like traditional style debate, but I am able/willing to hear progressive arguments. I am fine with Ks. I have heard most theory and lit, but please just be thorough and clear in your ev. I may not be familiar with newer Ks, or Ks tailored to the 2022 resolution.
I vote on mostly all args as long as you give me a reason to.
DAs are good. No real specifics on them. I just don't like generic DAs.
CPs are good. Sometimes I feel they are redundant, especially some PICs but I'll vote on them if you want me too.
Ts are iffy. I don't vote on most Ts because they usually are a stretch. Also I don't buy loss of education or ground args that much.
Ks are okay. Be thorough on the ev and make sure your impacts and alts make sense.
Please do impact calc. It'll make weighing the round so much easier.
I would like to be in the email chain/speechdrop if there is one: hannah.kim1026@gmail.com
I'll answer any other questions in the round about paradigms.
I am a former PFD debater and national qualifier. I have a degree in criminology and a law degree. Regardless of debate type, I am not a fan of quantity of quality and I do not enjoy watching a spreading style round. Do not argue that dropping an issue alone is enough to win, expand on why not addressing that issue is a big deal. I am fine with all types of arguments so long as they come across as credible. If I am presented with an impact argument which claims huge and terrible ramifications such as nuclear war, if I do not find that a compelling or likely outcome that will likely be a round deciding issue for me, regardless of whatever else is discussed in round.
I do not flow in the traditional sense but do follow my own style of diligent note taking.
Affiliations and History:
Please email (damiendebate47@gmail.com and tjlewis1919@gmail.com) me all of the speeches before you begin.
I am the Director of Debate at Damien High School in La Verne, CA.
I was the Director of Debate for Hebron High School in Carrollton, TX from 2020-2021.
I was an Assistant Coach at Damien from 2017-2020.
I debated on the national circuit for Damien from 2009-2013.
I graduated from Occidental College in Los Angeles with a BA in Critical Theory and Social Justice.
I completed my Master's degree in Social Justice in Higher Education Administration at The University of La Verne.
My academic work involves critical university studies, Georges Bataille, poetics, and post-colonialism.
Author of Suburba(in)e Surrealism (2021).
Yearly Round Numbers:
I try to judge a fair bit each year.
Fiscal Redistribution Round Count: About 40 rounds
I judged 75 rounds or more on the NATO Topic.
I judged over 50 rounds on the Water Topic.
I judged around 40 rounds on the CJR topic.
I judged 30 rounds on the Arms topic (2019-2020)
I judged a bit of LD (32 debates) on the Jan-Feb Topic (nuke disarm) in '19/'20.
I judged around 25 debates on the Immigration topic (2018-2019) on the national circuit.
I judged around 50 rounds on the Education topic (2017-2018) on the national circuit.
LD Protocol:I have a 100% record voting against teams that only read Phil args/Phil v. Policy debates. Adapt or lose.
NDT Protocol: I will rarely have any familiarity with the current college topic and will usually only judge 12-15 rounds pre-NDT.
Please make your T and CP acronyms understandable.
Front Matter Elements:
If you need an accommodation of any kind, please email me before the round starts.
I want everyone to feel safe and able to debate- this is my number one priority as a judge.
I don't run prep time while you email the speech doc. Put the whole speech into one speech doc.
I flow 1AC impact framing, inherency, and solvency straight down on the same page nowadays.
Speed is not an issue for me, but I will ask you to slow down (CLEAR) if you are needlessly sacrificing clarity for quantity--especially if you are reading T or theory arguments.
I will not evaluate evidence identifiable as being produced by software, bots, algorithms etc. Human involvement in the card’s production must be evident unique to the team, individual, and card. This means that evidence you directly take from open source must be re-highlighted at a minimum. You should change the tags and underlining anyways to better fit with your argument’s coherency.
Decision-making:
I privilege technical debating and the flow. I try to get as much down as I possibly can and the little that I miss usually is a result of a lack of clarity on the part of the speaker or because the actual causal chain of the idea does not make consistent sense for me (I usually express this on my face). Your technical skill should make me believe/be able to determine that your argument is the truth. That means warrants. Explain them, impact them, and don't make me fish for them in the un-underlined portion of the six paragraph card that your coach cut for you at a camp you weren't attending. I find myself more and more dissatisfied with debating that operates only on the link claim level. I tend to take a formal, academic approach to the evaluation of ideas, so discussions of source, author intentions and 'true' meaning, and citation are both important to me and something that I hope to see in more debates.
The best debates for me to judge are ones where the last few rebuttals focus on giving me instructions on what the core controversies of the round are, how to evaluate them, and what mode of thinking I should apply to the flow as a history of the round. This means that I'm not going to do things unless you tell me to do them on the flow (judge kick, theory 'traps' etc.). When instructions are not provided or articulated, I will tend to use (what I consider to be) basic, causal logic (i.e. judicial notice) to find connections, contradictions, and gaps/absences. Sometimes this happens on my face--you should be paying attention to the physical impact of the content of your speech act.
I believe in the importance of topicality and theory. No affs are topical until proven otherwise.
Non-impacted theory arguments don't go a long way for me; establish a warranted theory argument that when dropped will make me auto-vote for you. This is not an invitation for arbitrary and non-educational theory arguments being read in front of me, but if you are going to read no neg fiat (for example), then you better understand (and be able to explain to me) the history of the argument and why it is important for the debate and the community.
Reading evidence only happens if you do not make the debate legible and winnable at the level of argument (which is the only reason I would have to defer to evidentiary details).
I find framework to be a boring/unhelpful/poorly debated style of argument on both sides. I want to hear about the ballot-- what is it, what is its role, and what are your warrants for it (especially why your warrants matter!). I want to know what kind of individual you think the judge is (academic, analyst, intellectual etc.). I want to hear about the debate community and the round's relationship within it. These are the most salient questions in a framework debate for me. If you are conducting a performance in the round and/or debate space, you need to have specific, solvable, and demonstrable actions, results, and evidences of success. These are the questions we have to be thinking about in substantial and concrete terms if we are really thinking about them with any authenticity/honesty/care (sorge). I do not think the act of reading FW is necessarily constitutive of a violent act. You can try to convince me of this, but I do start from the position that FW is an argument about what the affirmative should do in the 1AC.
If you are going to go for Fairness, then you need a metric. Not just a caselist, not just a hypothetical ground dispensation, but a functional method to measure the idea of fairness in the round/outside the round i.e. why are the internal components (ground, caselist, etc.) a good representation of a team's burden and what do these components do for individuals/why does that matter. I am not sure what that metric/method is, but my job is not to create it for you. A framework debate that talks about competing theories for how fairness/education should be structured and analyzed will make me very happy i.e. engaging the warrants that constitute ideas of procedural/structural fairness and critical education. Subject formation has really come into vogue as a key element for teams and honestly rare is the debate where people engage the questions meaningfully--keep that in mind if you go for subject formation args in front of me.
In-round Performance and Speaker Points:
An easy way to get better speaker points in front of me is by showing me that you actually understand how the debate is going, the arguments involved, and the path to victory. Every debater has their own style of doing this (humor, time allocation, etc.), but I will not compromise detailed, content-based analysis for the ballot.
I believe that there is a case for in-round violence/damage winning the ballot. Folks need to be considerate of their behavior and language. You should be doing this all of the time anyways.
While I believe that high school students should not be held to a standard of intellectual purity with critical literature, I do expect you to know the body of scholarship that your K revolves around: For example, if you are reading a capitalism K, you should know who Marx, Engels, and Gramsci are; if you are reading a feminism k, you should know what school of feminism (second wave, psychoanalytic, WOC, etc.) your author belongs to. If you try and make things up about the historical aspects/philosophical links of your K, I will reflect my unhappiness in your speaker points and probably not give you much leeway on your link/alt analysis. I will often have a more in-depth discussion with you about the K after the round, so please understand that my post-round comments are designed to be educational and informative, instead of determining your quality/capability as a debater.
I am 100% DONE with teams not showing up on time to disclose. A handful of minutes or so late is different than showing up 3-5 min before the round begins. Punish these folks with disclosure theory and my ears will be open.
CX ends when the timer rings. I will put my fingers in my ears if you do not understand this. I deeply dislike the trend of debaters asking questions about 'did you read X card etc.' in cross-x and I believe this contributes to the decline of flowing skills in debate. While I have not established a metric for how many speaker points an individual will lose each time they say that phrase, know that it is something on my mind. I will not allow questions outside of cross-x outside of core procedural things ('can you give the order again?,' 'everyone ready?' etc.). Asking 'did you read X card' or 'theoretical reasons to reject the team' outside of CX are NOT 'core procedural things.'
Do not read these types of arguments in front of me:
Arguments that directly call an individual's humanity into account
Arguments based in directly insulting your opponents
Arguments that you do not understand
Hi there!
My name is Kai, I graduated from PSJA North HS in 2019, but now I am at THE University of Texas at Austin.
I am on the Texas Speech team and I am so excited to continue speech in College. In high school, I was the 2019 TFA State champion in DI, I made out rounds in DI and DUET at NIETOC in 2018 and 2019. I had also competed in UIL in Extemporaneous speaking, and Prose and Poetry with a state final in prose at the 2019 UIL State Meet. I was also a Poetry finalist at the NSDA 2019 National tournament in Dallas, and I also had an outround in DI and PRO as well.
In College however, I was the National Champion in Dramatic interpretation at the 2021 NSC Tournament, Made multiple outrounds at the AFA & NFA National tournaments in DI, POI, PRO, DUO and POE with an AFA final in Poetry in 2021, AFA Final in DUO in 2022, NFA Final in DUO and POI in 2022 and a 11th place finish in the NFA pentathlon in 2021. I enter my 4th year on the team and I'm so excited to share my knowledge and skill sets with you all.
For interpretation events, I obviously love a good dramatic story but lets not get to over dramatic with the script. BLOCKING IS IMPORTANT, you can accomplish so much with such little blocking. I believe in subtle blocking and its impact on the performance. I live by less is more, unless the scrip/program calls for that dramatic blocking then by all means RUN WITH IT!
But I am a sucker for those dramatic moments with just you and your audience, above all this performance should feel like a conversation with your audience; You shouldn't have to compromise the story for overdramatic blocking/acting unless the script calls for it!
I will forgive little stumbles because I know how tough the nerves can get (I see you, I understand) but lets try to be prepared!
In my opinion the introduction will make or break your overall argument! If you can create an argument that will:
1) Draw me in further into your performance,
2) Make me question your argument (or left wanting more)
&/or 3) brings in new insights/ideas/questions
then you have my vote!
sell me your story, and I will buy it!
Hello everyone! My name is KJ (he/him), I competed all 4 years of high school and now go to Texas State University.
I am primarily an IE person. I competed in every IE event including OO, Info, and Extemp. I as well competed in World Schools a bit too. I was a 4x state qualifier, state finalist, 5x state semi finalist, 2x NIETOC semifinalist, and a 3x NSDA qualifier. I was as well an All-State and All-American competitor with over 2200 NSDA points. What I am looking for is understanding of the piece. How well thought out it is and how much effort you have noticeably put into it goes a LONG way.
IE's
- Needs to be clean, concise, and have a deeper meaning as to why you're telling the story, interp is acting with a purpose
- Be proud of what you're performing! and have fun with it!
- Characterization is key, I want to see real peoples stories that I am actually able to connect to
- I want to know what's going on! Don't just throw us into the middle of everything, give us some exposition, who are you? Where are you? What is going on?
OO, Info, Extemp, WS
- Are you just telling me the facts? Or are you engaging with the information and the topic you've chosen and presenting it in an effective way?
- Charisma is KEY, you wrote this speech, be proud of it!
- How well thought out is your argument or topic?
- Are you speaking fluidly and confidently or are you using filler words and swaying nervously?
- Make sure that you're applying the facts that you give to the grand scheme of things, what are the implications?
Like I said earlier, I was always more of an interp person. However, I do know all of the rules and the ins and outs of debate! I may not be as adept as I am with speech but I know my way around. Essentially just treat me as a lay judge who knows a lot about the subject.
Debate
- Well thought out arguments will go a long way, the more you put into a speech the more you will get out of it, and trust me when I say that we as judges notice how much effort you put into it
- How well do you structure your speech? How well does it flow?
- How do you respond to questions and how do you interact in the round?
- Don't just tell me what you are going to do but also HOW you are going to accomplish it and WHY
- Add me to the email chain plz - kjamarino@gmail.com
- As far as flowing goes, I'm not a stickler for it during cross so don't worry about it
- I can follow spreading but if you'd like to have mercy on my soul and not that would be awesome
- I'm not a huge theory argument person, so if I feel you're twisting the resolution in a way that it most likely wasn't intended as may not work if its too far out there
All of these are just my personal opinions regarding judging, please do not change your speech or performance based on trying to get my 1. So long as you have fun, enjoy what you're doing, and you are proud of the work you've presented, that is all I ask.
Email: kjamarino@gmail.com
I am primarily a policy coach/judge, but do have experience with LD and PF. I have been judging for more than 15 years and have judged on the UIL, TFA, and NSDA circuits.
In CX, I consider myself to be a policymaker judge, but what it comes down to is that the debater that convinces me is the debater that is going to get my vote. This means that I am looking for strong evidence as well as good analysis. I am looking for arguments that make sense. I am looking for cases that not only prove their own points but counter the opponent's points, as well. I strive to start the round with no preconceived notions. I want to see strong framework and strong impact calcs.
Do not make the mistake of presenting your case without arguing your opponent's. Yes, I am repeating that statement. It bears repeating.
Speed is ok, but at the end of the day, I still like to hear good speaking. If I cannot understand what you are saying, then your speaking habits are not showcasing what you should be doing. I would rather hear fewer quality arguments than to have so much crammed into your time that I am unable to see clearly how it all works together.
While I do not judge as much LD as I do CX, my paradigm remains much the same. I like very structured speeches with clear signposting, clear organization, and delineation between arguments. I want to see evidence early in the round but more analysis as the round progresses. Make sure that your Value and Criterion are strong and show me why I should vote on those - and back that up with what you are presenting with your evidence and analysis.
In Congress, it is important that you are active in the session. I know it becomes a game to see who can get the most speeches in, but unless they are quality speeches, it's going to backfire. Speeches should be quality speeches. And on that note, while I know it is super easy to read straight from notes while competing virtually, I don't like it and will not score a speech high if you are reading straight from your paper. Evidence is important and I want to hear sources. You should have at least one, and preferably two, sources per point. Once the initial speeches are made, it is vital that new arguments to keep things fresh and to promote clash are essential. The PO should have control of the chamber and be confident in his or her style and movements. A good PO will keep things flowing without stifling competitors and will manage to get an optimal number of speakers in. '
In IEs, I look for poise and confidence, good speaking style, strong movements and posture. In INF and OO, as well as extemp, quality evidence is essential but should flow seamlessly with the information. In all events, including interp, I would like to see you far enough away from the camera that movement is natural and not distracting. In OO and INF, as well as in interp, I would like to see a connection to society and/or to your own experiences. For me, the best pieces do both.
In interp, intros should be casual and conversational. Tell me why your topic is important, even in HI. What is the connection to society? To yourself? Blocking, movement, and bookwork (POI) should be natural and not distracting. Characters should be distinct and recognizable, vocally and physically. I don't mind the use of curse words, but do want to see pieces that are true to the author's intent.
Hello! I debated in high school (1995-1999) and have been judging debate for the past 20 years. Here is a quick recap of my paradigm
SPEED: no issue. Talk as fast or as slow as you want.
QUALITY > QUANTITY: it is better to have a few good arguments than many bad ones.
FRAMEWORK: important but not absolutely required. Helps to frame the round, but arguments are more important.
PHILOSOPHY: especially for LD, I think it is important to incorporate philosophy into your arguments. Not as important in PF, but it doesn't hurt to have it.
SOURCES: always cite your sources. I reserve the right to check your evidence during or after the round.
CIVILITY: be good to your opponent. This is a formal environment. Don't be rude or you will lose the round even if you have better arguments.
VOTERS: always give me voters at the end of the round. I will use them as a tiebreaker if the round is close.
CX: try to trap your opponent during CX. Don't waste valuable CX time asking for clarification questions, unless absolutely necessary.
HAVE FUN AND GOOD LUCK!
I am used to judging speech events only, and that is what I prefer. I was on the speech side in high school and I performed in DI, Prose, Poetry, Duo, Duet, and HI. I have judged OO as well but did not compete in it. When judging these events I look for clean transitions (page turns, turning or use of chairs, and posture). I look for good introductions that grab my attention and find reason as to why the competitors chose the piece to present. I do not mind “inappropriate” jokes or cursing as long as it is used in the piece for a meaning or reason. Unnecessary jokes or curse words do get ranked lower if I feel it takes away my attention too much from the piece. I like heart fulfilled pieces as well as hysterical pieces. I judged based off emotion and connections that the competitor makes with the audience and how well the pieces are portrayed as well as eye contact with the audience or judge.
Sources
For events that require sources, I prefer 2-3 sources per point/subpoint.
Structure
Clear roadmapping and signposting is very helpful for extemp/OO/Info.
Content/Material
I don't have any particular preferences regarding the material of interp/info/OO events. As long as whatever you are doing is appropriate to support your story telling, I don't care about content or language.
Speaking Style
I am big on having levels during any type of speaking event whether it's oratory/info/interp/etc. Anytime you give a speech, you should have appropriate volume, inflection, facial expressions, emotions, etc. in order to keep your audience engaged. Every speech is an opportunity to tell a story that means something to someone, even if it is oratory or info instead of interp. Make sure your storytelling is engaging so that you aren't just talking at the judge for ten minutes.
Sandra Peek
CX Judging Paradigm
I have been teaching 32 years and coaching 17 of those. I did policy in high school and CEDA in college. Keep in mind that that was in the 80’s, and I do not have the tolerance for extreme speed that today’s college debaters often have.
EVALUATION-I will evaluate the round through the framework/interpretation provided and argued by the debaters. In other words, if the aff wins framework, I will evaluate that way; if the neg wins framework, I will evaluate that way. In the absence of a framework, I will revert to policy maker, which is my personal preference. Unless you have an exceedingly strong policy advocacy and an exceedingly clean link story, I do not want to see a performance aff or neg.
SPEED- I prefer a moderately-paced debate. I understand the need for speed in the 1AR, and I can follow well-signposted fast argumentation. However, I want to hear the text of the evidence. I am not okay with speed so fast that the words in the evidence are not enunciated.
ORGANIZATION-Organization is critical to me. I need you to give a succinct road map before your speech starts and then signpost as you go including numbering. Additionally, before you speak put your speech on the flash drive or email chain so that it is easy to track prep time. I prefer most negative positions to be started in the 1NC . Disads,CP, and T should always be started in the 1NC.
PARTICULAR ARGUMENTS
KRITIKAL ARGUMENTS- I generally will accept well applied, resolutionally focused kritiks and affs. K’s need to have a clear alternative beyond rejection.
DISADS/ADVANTAGES- I feel that disads are almost essential for the negative. I will vote a disad down if the aff articulates and wins that the link fails. I generally will not vote on a minuscule chance of the disad or on a “try or die” analysis from the affirmative. In sum, I want impacts to have a reasonable chance of happening before I consider them in my impact calculus.
TOPICALITY- I will vote on topicality as it is a key limiter.
INHERENCY-I will not vote on inherency unless the negative proves outright that the aff plan is already happening. I don’t think I have ever actually voted on inherency.
SOLVENCY- I like solvency and vote on it often usually in conjunction with another argument.
COUNTERPLANS- I vote on them and generally accept that they can be topical.
THEORY-I buy warranted ground loss based theory arguments and will vote on them.
FUNDING- I cannot remember a time when I found funding arguments convincing (by saying this I am NOT saying that I do not like funding-based DA’s).
GENERAL- Open CX is fine if both teams agree except at UIL tournaments where the rules forbid it. Be certain that one gender is not preferred over the other through interrupting or condescending. I will not vote for those engaging in overtly racist or homophobic speech. Kicking is fine but be certain to make it clear. I do prefer the negative to sit on the right and the affirmative to side on the left.
LD Judging Paradigm
I have been teaching 30 years and coaching 17 of those. I did policy in high school and CEDA in college. Keep in mind that that was in the 80’s, and I do not have the tolerance for extreme speed that today’s college debaters often have.
EVALUATION-I will evaluate the round through the framework/interpretation provided and argued by the debaters. In other words, if the aff wins framework, I will evaluate that way; if the neg wins framework, I will evaluate that way. In the absence of a framework, I will revert to value/criterion, which is my personal preference.
SPEED- I prefer a moderately-paced debate. I understand the need for speed in the 1AR, and I can follow well signposted fast argumentation. However, I want to hear the text of the evidence. I am not okay with speed so fast that the words in the evidence are not enunciated.
ORGANIZATION-Organization is critical to me. I need you to give a succinct road map before your speech starts.
PARTICULAR ARGUMENTS
KRITIKAL ARGUMENTS- I generally will accept well applied, resolutionally focused kritiks on both aff and neg. K’s need to have a clear alternative beyond reject.
DISADS/ADVANTAGES- I feel that disads are sometimes out of place in LD. I will generally vote a disad down if it is not intrinsic to the resolution.
TOPICALITY- I will vote on topicality as it is a key limiter.
PLANS/COUNTERPLANS- I'm not a huge fan of these in LD but will not automatically vote them down. When there are policy-based resolutions, they often get my vote.
THEORY-I buy warranted ground loss based theory arguments and will vote on them.
GENERAL- Rude/sexist behavior and/or racist speech will result in lower speaker points. I will not, on principle, vote for those engaging in overtly racist or homophobic speech. I do prefer the negative to sit on the right and the affirmative to side on the left.
PF Judging Paradigm
I have been teaching 30 years and coaching 17 of those. I did policy in high school and CEDA in college. Keep in mind that that was in the 80s, and I do not have the tolerance for extreme speed that today’s college debaters often have. In PF in particular, I think slower debate is better since the intent of the event is for everyone to be able to understand it.
EVALUATION-I will evaluate the round through the framework/interpretation provided and argued by the debaters. In other words, if the pro wins framework, I will evaluate that way; if the con wins framework, I will evaluate that way. In the absence of a framework, you put yourself at risk of me simply judging on policy impacts.
EVIDENCE- I think paraphrasing is fine, but be sure those that paraphrasing can be defended with actual correctly cited evidence.
ORGANIZATION-Organization is critical to me. I need you to give a succinct road map before your speech starts.
PARTICULAR ARGUMENTS
KRITIKAL ARGUMENTS- In my opinion, there is very little time to flesh out arguments like this in a PF round, so unless they are extremely easy to understand and carefully linked to the resolution, I would prefer debaters not use them.
DISADS/ADVANTAGES- While the arguments do not have to be labeled as advantages or disadvantages, in most PF rounds I actually weigh impacts to make my decision so regardless of what you call the arguments, you should impact out this way.
TOPICALITY- I will vote on topicality as it is a key limiter.
PLANS/COUNTERPLANS- In my opinion, plans and CP's are rarely a good use of the limited time in PF. Occasionally, CP's work if they provide a counter-narrative to the resolution.
THEORY-I buy warranted ground loss-based theory arguments and will vote on them.
GENERAL- Rude/sexist behavior and/or racist speech will result in lower speaker points. I will not, on principle, vote for those engaging in overtly racist or homophobic speech. I do prefer the con to sit on the right and the pro to side on the left.
1/8/24-edited to update years experience
Welcome back and I'm glad to be back for another year. Here is my updated paradigm. This has general information and then items specific to LD
PERSONAL:
I have been a coach for 22 years and I have judged all forms of speech and debate. This means I am pretty open to any time of argument. I will go with what I hear in the round and will not input myself into the debate. I am a judge, not a competitor so I will not inject myself into the debate. You don't need to send me your case. I only want to judge what I hear, not what I can read. So while I am okay with speed and I can handle spreading, only use spreading in Policy.
DEBATE:
Don't be condescending in your cross ex. Acting like you don't care about the answer the other person gave or interrupting them before they get the answer out is not okay. If you wanted a shorter answer then ask a more succinct question. All debates need to clash. I don't want to only hear prepared speeches on both sides. Show me that you are listening to what the other person/team is saying and advance the debate.
LD
I am definitely more traditional than progressive but I will listen to progressive arguments IF they still fall under the philosophical ideas of LD. I do not want to hear a plan or use the motion as the plan text. That doesn't do anything for me. Don't use a K to avoid debating. That's not what debate is about. I WILL NOT vote on disclosure theory so don't take the time to run it. That is not debating the topic but finding a way to not have to debate. Otherwise, I will listen to Ks, Ts, Disads, etc if they are relevant to the debate. If you don't have a V and a VC, you won't get the win from me!
Also, I am creating this paradigm for you so don't ask me about other items before the round. Everything else is fair game as long as it is done well! Address the resolution and give me reasons for your claims. I don't need to be on your email chain. Also, I do not disclose unless required to and it will be brief. As a coach, I want the coaching to come from me and not the judges. As I said earlier, I am not here to relive my competitive days so I won't explain all that I am thinking.
Good luck!
I have been coaching all debate events for the past 9 years.
LD:
I'm a stock issues judge. I prefer traditional formatting and style of debate. I love to see a lot of framework debate in LD. I do understand at TFA tournaments a more progressive style is the norm. I will judge progressive rounds fairly and will not vote against someone because they are more progressive. I just prefer traditional.
I will not vote on Ks. I do not like to see them in round.
I'm not a fan of spreading. I have found that in a virtual format it is next to impossible to understand you when you are spreading. I don't mind if you are speaking fast and clearly.
Respect and professionalism are important to me. There is no reason to be disrespectful to your opponent. Professional language is important for you to be credible in a round. I don't like to hear ums, uhs, likes in rounds. This is a speaking event as well as a debate event and I want to hear excellent speaking.
Congress:
I've been coaching congress for 9 years. I have coached UIL, TFA, and NSDA state/national qualifiers.
Clash is what I look for the most.
I hate re hash. I do not rank people who do not bring new information into the round. I think 45min is a great time cap for debate on each piece of legislation. That helps prevent rehash and allows for better debate.
I appreciate representatives moving to previous question when the debate turns into only re hash. I very rarely rank representatives who break the aff neg cycle.
Quality of speeches is more important than the quantity. I do want representatives to be really active in the chamber. I want to see great content and great presentation. Content and presentation are equally important to me. Keep content organized and clear. Speed should be slow and clear. I do not like yelling in a congress speech.
Remember to have fun and enjoy the round! As a judge I'm always rooting for you to do your best and enjoy the debate. :)
Speech/Extemp
My biggest preference is enunciation. If your diction needs work, the further down in the ranking you go. If I can understand everything you are saying, the higher the ranking.
A lot of my feedback consists of the former and to slow down. Don't be afraid to take a pause (just not too long).
Grab my attention!
Tell me an honest story like I'm an actual human being.
Your characters should all be different and they shouldn't be stereotyped or offensive. Go against the typical way of playing a character you're not used to. Be creative. Above all, they should be believable.
Gestures should have a purpose and not be repetitive.
Answer the question.
Have fun and don't try too hard.
Interpret and public speaking, should leave a judge, wanting to know more answering questions I never thought of getting insight into a topic or character that is not just on the surface
I am not a technical debate person. I listen as a lay person and make judgements bases on convincing arguments and clear, smooth and understandable speaking.
--Speech--
As far as extemp/oratory/informative, I look for a least some evidence to support their point or topic. However, these are speaking events so "speaking skills" are important to me (rate, diction and delivery).
When it comes to Interp, I am all about the story and the journey, regardless of humorous or dramatic. Introductions can be at the beginning or done as a teaser (whatever works). I have no specific issues with lots of technical blocking or no blocking at all...it all depends on the piece and how well it is executed. Some pieces require lots of tech and some are very simple and need almost nothing.
I am a Theatre Director and a Interp Coach, so acting is the most important to me. And, I am a big fan of keeping with the author's intent. I am pretty liberal about mature material, however it has to be appropriate for the piece and needed, not just mature to get attention. I do not like it when an actor makes up things and adds to the script for no reason.
--Speech--
What are your stylistic preferences for extemp? How much evidence do you prefer? Any preference for virtual delivery?
I want it to feel like a Ted Talk. Use evidence as much as possible without drawing out your own commentary. I want you to synthesize the evidence and present an argument.
What are your stylistic preferences for Oratory/Info? How much evidence do you prefer? Any preference for virtual delivery?
I love evidence, especially if you're making a point about the way things happen in society. If it is "happening to everybody" there will be a measurable means of showing it. Also, don't expect stats to speak for themselves. Just because something is statistically significant doesn't mean it's important.
Any unique thoughts on teasers/introductions for Interpretation events?
I love teasers! If you choose to use one, I want it to do just that- tease the performance. Don't break up important exposition for the sole purpose of having a teaser.
Any preferences with respect to blocking, movement, etc. in a virtual world?
For HI/DI/Duo/Duet, go crazy, get really creative with your blocking and movement.
For events performed with a book, I still want the illusion of reading. You can use the book as a prop sparingly, as long as it actually makes sense from a character perspective.
What are your thoughts on character work?
Surely this is the most important part of any interp performance. I want to see your characters grow/change over time. If they have small roles, make them distinct! You can create a fully formed character with two lines of dialogue!
How do you feel about author's intent and appropriateness of a piece? For example: an HI of Miracle Worker (author's intent) or a student performing mature material or using curse words (appropriateness)?
I think if you accurately portray a realistic character, anything goes. I don't mind if you portray someone of another gender/race/ability status or what have you as long as that portrayal is not a stereotypical archetype. Create a character that feels like a real person and let them poke fun at themselves.
Platform Speaking: (Extemp, OO, Info, Imp)
I’m looking first at structure: a full introduction, smooth and capable transitions, and a satisfying conclusion, each section balanced with an appropriate allotment of time. Your analysis should be insightful, informed by a variety of good sources. Overall, the speech should be fluent and engaging, a clear window into your thinking.
Interp:
I’m looking for how you bring your story and character(s) to life, and how each choice contributes to this goal. It starts with the cutting: does the story build to a climax, one that leaves your character changed in some way? If not, is this intentional? I’m looking at blocking and movements: whether they are purposeful and contribute to the story, or arbitrary or just for show. Above all, I’m looking for authenticity, a performance that, through the sum of your hard work and unique choices, feels genuine and engaging.
INTERP EVENTS
- In speech/ acting events I focus on solid storytelling. The most important piece of the puzzle is the script, please don't forget to hold true the story as a whole even though we are only seeing ten minutes of it.
- Energy
- Characterization from beginning to end.
- Make big bold choices that you have perfected for this character, this story, this moment in time.
- Connecting to the audience, it's about telling the story to us, so a solid connection to the audience is important. We want to laugh and cry with you.
- Clean pantomime and connection with off stage characters
- - Take us on the journey with you.
- Take a deep breath and have fun!!! Leave it all out there and take your seat feeling like there was nothing else you could have done.
- Don't forget you are not speaking FOR them, you are speaking AS them. It is an ownership that you should take seriously. If you don't tell the story, how will they continue to live?
- Be honest. These are real people sharing real stories of their lives. Breath through their struggle and be honest.
- Be you, you're enough. - Believe in the story you are telling, be confident, be bold, own your time in front of us.
- Make sure everything you do has a purpose. If it doesn't have a reason, it begs the question of why do it?
- ENJOY! The more you forget about all of the static in your head the clearer the performance will be for us.
- Finally, "Just be." You are enough.
SPEAKING EVENTS
- Be specific with the topic at hand
Make sure your speech flows and each point connects to the last and the next.
- - We may not know anything about the topic at hand, think of yourself as a professor sharing knowledge, teach us.
- If you stumble over your words, keep going forward, don't go back unless that information was so important you need to recover it.
- Strong supporting material is key, like any good research paper the more recent the source the better. And with that strong source material is also important to the strength and legitimacy of your speech.
- Solid confident delivery style
Aaron Timmons
Director of Debate – Greenhill School
Former Coach USA Debate Team
Curriculum Director Harvard Debate Council Summer Workshops
Updated – April 2024
Please put me on the email chain – timmonsa@greenhill.org
Contact me with questions.
General Musings
Debate rounds, and subsequently debate tournaments, are extensions of the classroom. While we all learn from each other, my role is a critic of argument (if I had to pigeonhole myself with a paradigmatic label as a judge). I will evaluate your performance in as objective a method as possible. Unlike many adjudicators claim to be, I am not a blank slate. I will intervene if I see behaviors or practices that create a bad, unfair, or hostile environment for the extension of the classroom that is the debate round. I WILL do my best to objectively evaluate your arguments, but the idea that my social location is not a relevant consideration of how I view/decode (even hear) arguments is not true (nor true for anyone.)
I have coached multiple National and/or State Champions in Policy Debate, Lincoln Douglas Debate, and World Schools Debate (in addition to interpretation/speech events). I still actively coach and I am involved in the strategy and argument creation of my students who compete for my school. Given the demands on my time, I do not cut as many cards as I once did for Policy and Lincoln Douglas. That said, I am more than aware of the arguments and positions being run in both of these formats week in and week out.
General thoughts on how I decide debates:
1 – Debate is a communication activity – I will flow what you say in speeches as opposed to flowing off of the speech documents (for the events that share documents). If I need to read cards to resolve an issue, I will do so but until ethos and pathos (re)gain status as equal partners with logos in the persuasion triangle, we will continue to have debates decided only on what is “in the speech doc.” Speech > speech doc.
2 – Be mindful of your “maximum rate of efficiency” – aka, you may be trying to go faster than you are capable of speaking in a comprehensible way. The rate of speed Is not a problem in many contemporary debates, the lack of clarity is an increasing concern. Unstructured paragraphs that are slurred together do not allow the pen time necessary to write things down in the detail you think they might. Style and substance are fundamentally inseparable. This does NOT mean you have to be slow; it does mean you need to be clear.
3 – Evidence is important - In my opinion debates/comparisons about the qualifications of authors on competing issues and warrants (particularly empirical ones), are important. Do you this and not only will your points improve, but I am also likely to prefer your argument if the comparisons are done well.
4 – Online Debating – We have had two years to figure this out. My camera will be on. I expect that your camera is on as well unless there is a technical issue that cannot/has not been resolved in our time online. If there is an equity/home issue that necessitates that your camera is off, I understand that and will defer to your desire to it be off if that is the case. A simple, “I would prefer for my camera to be off” will suffice to inform me of your request.
5 – Disclosure is good (on balance) – I feel that debaters/teams should disclose on the wiki. I have been an advocate of disclosure for decades. I am NOT interested in “got you” games regarding disclosure. If a team/school is against disclosure, defend that pedagogical practice in the debate. Either follow basic tenets of community norms related to disclosure (affirmative arguments, negative positions read, etc.) after they have been read in a debate. While I do think things like full source and/or round reports are good educational practices, I am not interested in hearing debates about those issues. ADA issues: If a student needs to have materials formatted in a matter to address issues of accessibility based on documented learning differences, that request should be made promptly to allow reformatting of that material. Preferably, adults from one school should contact the adult representatives of the other schools to deal with school-sanctioned accountability.
6 – Zero risk is a possibility – There is a possibility of zero risks of an advantage or a disadvantage.
7 – My role as a judge - I will do my best to judge the debate that occurred versus the debate that I wish had happened. I see too many judges making decisions based on evaluating and comparing evidence after the debate that was not done by the students.
8 – Debate the case – It is a forgotten art. Your points will increase, and it expands the options for you to win the debate in the final negative rebuttal.
9 – Good “judge instructions” will make my job easier – While I am happy to make my judgments and comparisons between competing claims, I feel that students making those comparisons, laying out the order of operations, articulating “even/if” considerations, telling me how to weigh and then CHOOSING in the final rebuttals, will serve debaters well (and reduce frustrations on both our parts0.
10 – Cross-examination matters – Plan and ask solid questions. Good cross-examinations will be rewarded.
11 - Flowing is a prerequisite to good debating (and judging) - You should flow. I will be flowing your speech not from the doc, but your actual speech..
Policy Debate
I enjoy policy debate and given my time in the activity I have judged, coached, and seen some amazing students over the years.
A few thoughts on how I view judging policy debate:
Topicality vs Conventional Affs:
Traditional concepts of competing interpretations can be mundane and sometimes result in silly debates. Limiting out one affirmative will not save/protect limits or negative ground. Likewise, reasonability in a vacuum without there being a metric on what that means and how it informs my interpretation vis a vis the resolution lacks nuance as well. Topicality debaters who can frame what the topic should look like based on the topic, and preferably evidence to support why interpretation makes sense will be rewarded. The next step is saying why a more limiting (juxtaposed to the most limiting) topic makes sense helps to frame the way I would think about that version of the topic. A case list of what would be topical under your interpretation would help as would a list of core negative arguments that are excluded if we accept the affirmative interpretation or model of debate.
Topicality/FW vs critical affirmatives:
First – The affirmative needs to do something (and be willing to defend what that is). The negative needs to win that performance is net bad/worse than an alternative (be it the status quo, a counterplan, or a K alternative).
Second – The negative should have access to ground, but they do not get to predetermine what that is. Just because your generic da or counterplan does not apply to the affirmative does not mean the affirmative cannot be tested.
Conditionality
Conditionality is good but only in a limited sense. I do not think the negative gets unlimited options (even against a new affirmative). While the negative can have multiple counter plans, the affirmative will get leeway to creatively (re)explain permutations if the negative kicks (or attempts to add) planks to the counterplan(s), the 1ar will get some flexibility to respond to this negative move.
Counterplans and Disads:
Counterplans are your friend. Counterplans need a net benefit (reasons the affirmative is a bad/less than desirable idea. Knowing the difference between an advantage to the counterplan and a real net benefit seems to be a low bar. Process counterplans are harder to defend as competitive and I am sympathetic to affirmative permutations. I have a higher standard for many on permutations as I believe that in the 2AC “perm do the counterplan” and/or “perm do the alternative” do nothing to explain what that world looks like. If the affirmative takes another few moments to explain these arguments, that increases the pressure on the 2nr to be more precise in responding to these arguments.
Disadvantages that are specific to the advocacy of the affirmative will get you high points.
Lincoln Douglas
I have had students succeed at the highest levels of Lincoln Douglas Debate including multiple champions of NSDA, NDCA, the Tournament of Champions, as well as the Texas Forensic Association State Championships.
Theory is debated far too much in Lincoln – Douglas and is debated poorly. I am strongly opposed to that practice. My preference is NOT to hear a bad theory debate. I believe the negative does get some “flex;” it cannot be unlimited. The negative does not need to run more than four off-case arguments
Words matter. Arguments that are racist, sexist, transphobic, homophobic, etc. will not be tolerated.
I am not a fan of random; multiple sentence fragments that claim to “spike” out of all of the other team’s arguments. At its foundation, the debate should be about argument ENGAGEMENT, not evasion.
I do not like skepticism as an argument. It would be in your best interest to not run it in front of me. While interesting in a philosophy class in college, training young advocates to feel that “morality doesn’t exist” etc. is educationally irresponsible.
I do not disclose speaker points. That seems silly to me.
Dropped arguments and the “auto-win” seem silly to me. Just because a debater drops a card does not mean you win the debate. Weighing and embedded clashes are a necessary component of the debate. Good debaters extend their arguments. GREAT debaters do that in addition to explaining the nexus point of the clash between their arguments and that of the opposition and WHY I should prefer their argument. Any argument that says the other side cannot answer your position is fast-tracking to an L (with burnt cheese and marinara on top).
It takes more than a sentence (or in many of the rounds I judge a sentence fragment), to make an argument. If the argument was not clear originally, I will allow the opponent to make new arguments.
Choose. No matter the speech or the argument.
Cross apply much of the policy section as well as the general musings on debate.
World Schools
Have you chaired a WS round before? (required)
Yes. Countless times.
What does chairing a round involve? (required)
How would you describe World Schools Debate to someone else?
World Schools is modeled after parliament having argumentation presented in a way that is conversational, yet argumentatively rigorous. Debates are balanced between motions that are prepared, while some are impromptu. Points of Information (POIs) are a unique component of the format as speakers can be interrupted by their opponent by them asking a question or making a statement.
What process, if any, do you utilize to take notes in the debate? (required)
I keep a rigorous flow throughout the debate.
When evaluating the round, assuming both principle and practical arguments are advanced through the 3rd and Reply speeches, do you prefer one over the other? Explain.
These should be prioritized and compared by the students in the round. I do not have an ideological preference between principled or practical arguments.
The World Schools Debate format requires the judge to consider both Content and Style as 40% of each of the speaker’s overall score, while Strategy is 20%. How do you evaluate a speaker’s strategy? (required)
Strategy (simply put) is how they utilize the content that has been introduced in the debate.
World Schools Debate is supposed to be delivered at a conversational pace. What category would you deduct points in if the speaker were going too fast?
Style.
World Schools Debate does not require evidence/cards to be read in the round. How do you evaluate competing claims if there is no evidence to read?
Students are required to use analysis, examples, and interrogate the claims of the other side then make comparative claims about the superiority of their position.
How do you resolve model quibbles?
Model quibbles are not fully developed arguments if they are only questions that are not fully developed or have an articulated impact.
How do you evaluate models vs. countermodels?
I utilize the approach of comparative worlds to evaluate competing methods for resolving mutual problems/harms. The proposition must defend its model as being comparatively advantageous over a given alternative posed by the opposition. While many feel in World Schools a countermodel must be mutually exclusive. While that certainly is one method of assessing if a countermodel truly ‘forces a choice,” a feel a better stand is that of net benefits. The question should be if it is desirable to do both the propositions model and the opposition countermodel at the same time. If it is possible to do both without any undesirable outcomes, the negative has failed to prove the desirability of their countermodel. The opposition should explain why doing both would be a bad idea. The proposition should advance an argument as to why doing both is better than adopting the countermodel alone.
I'm here to assess your best. Be sure to offer perspective and well developed arguments that show a total understanding of the topic. How everything relates. For example, articulate the connection between funding and solvency - "if there's no money to pay for the enforcement/products/etc, then it can't work" type of conceptual development. There should be some sort of evidence to back up a theory, but too much evidence without depth is not enough to win an argument. Really answer the WHYs and the HOWs.
I value the speaking style as much as the quality of the material. Speeches should be a convincing presentation, effectively communicating ideas, bringing everyone in the room into the discussion. (read: Speaking like an auctioneer or the person in medicine commercials reading the side effect warning label isn't including the room or natural communication in any other setting. think: professor. politician. lawyer. TED talks.)
Specifics
CX: Not everything ends in nuclear war/annihilation. It hasn't before, so what's a realistic outcome NOW? Which other impacts are there that are massively damaging to people, society, culture, etc that have happened before and could happen again in the Aff scenario? Don't spread. If you "cross supply" an author or evidence, specify which arguments are important and WHY they are, in order to show the conceptual clash. (Flush out your ideas.)
LD: Most focus should be on answering the WHY's - WHY is this wrong in the status quo, WHY is this harming people, WHY should we help, type of questions. (If we took a plan to congress and said it would cost $78M, they wouldn't say, "sure!" instantly; it would be, "wow, a lot of money. why should we spend this?") Strong V/C clash.
Extemp: Clear organization. Engaging speaking. Sources. Thorough development of what the question is asking - the context of the topic question.
Interp: Why did you choose this/these as a piece/s? Which aspect resonates with you...and why? Authenticity over emphatics. Natural and organic and what feels believable is more meaningful, for me, than a very dramatic and (overly) emotional interpretation of a scenario.
Specific Questions? I can BRIEFLY answer questions before the round.
LD Paradigm
I prefer a case directly centered around the value and criteria. I am ok with facts and statistic, but being a value debate arguing facts will not necessarily win my ballot. I flow the cases and write extensive ballots so there is not a question as to how I vote. I like a communication round, so I am not a fan of speed or spreading. If an argument is dropped, I will not vote on that drop unless the opponent points out the drop. I pay close attention during CX time and how the q and a are used in follow up speeches. I am not a fan of pre-written argumentation on the resolution when it is read in isolation to the arguments presented in an individual’s case. I like a good strong final speech and will weigh voters. I like to judge JV debaters and help grow them as speakers using the comments I make on my ballot. I do not like to disclose. I do like to keep my own time because I like to see how the debater utilizes his/her time. I am NOT a policy judge, so policy terms are not going to sway my decision.
I am an old school judge. I like framework and do not enjoy listing to spread. I will take some speed as long as I can understand. I do not like theory. Debate the resolution.
I'm a coach, but I'm basically a lay judge. If you spread, you will lose.
For Congress:
I want to see you interact with the chamber. Ask good questions and point out logical fallacies while maintaining decorum. Your speeches shouldn’t be given too quickly as your constituents and colleagues need to understand what you’re saying. Don’t try to do too much in your speeches either, I’d rather see you adequately break down a single argument than try to address everything poorly all at once. I also want to see a bit of debate. Don’t just rehash the same points over and over.
Any claims you make to address arguments should have some sort of evidentiary support. This is what congress SHOULD look like, not what it currently actually looks like.
As a PO I want to see you in complete control of the chamber keeping things moving and following procedure. Gentle reminders should be used to maintain decorum and you should try to have a genuine relationship with the entire chamber. Congresspeople should not have to call you out about precedence!
My personal preferences for speech are performers who can perform both humorous and dramatic in one piece. The pieces that hit me the hardest are the ones who can play both sides. I don't like too long of a teaser before the introduction, just long enough for me to understand what the piece is about. With the virtual stuff, I am not a huge fan of a lot of moving around just because of the lagging the laptops and internet come with.
I believe in the power of story telling. I believe that our performances should have purpose behind them (even if simply to entertain.) I believe all speech events should be based on genuine audience connect, respect for the given material/ author's intent, as well as the strength of the people speaking. I'm looking for connection - with audience, with material and when necessary, between characters.
All speech events:
For virtual, please stay in the camera frame. It is best if your hands are always in the frame as well; otherwise, gestures seem extreme when your hands suddenly enter the frame. Make sure you adhere to the constitution. For recorded (asynchronous) events, you are not allowed to edit the video.
Extemp/OO/Info:
I need a clear structure. You should have at least one source for each point. The biggest thing I look for is your explanation - you need to explain things in a way that makes it easy to understand without sounding condescending. Your examples and explanation should help me understand your ideas. Movements (5-point walk and gestures) should be smooth, helpful, and make sense. The constitution states you cannot be ranked first if you go over grace.
Interp:
Rankings most often are based on who creates the most believable moments and characters. There should be different levels to your characters and pieces—not everything should be intense, not everything should be quiet, not everything should be rapid, not everything should be slow, etc. If you use an accent for a character, then you need to be consistent with it. It is not necessary for you to have multiple characters; however, if you do, you need to create distinct characters. You should add meaning behind the lines through your voice, tone, and inflection. Cussing doesn’t bother me; I do prefer for it to make sense within your piece. I do not mind if you take a serious piece and put a humorous spin on it or a humorous piece being given a dramatic spin as long as it is not creating a caricature or making fun of a group of people. Movement should also make sense. Introductions should help clarify and set the scene; many events also require the author and title to be clearly stated in the introduction as well. The constitution states you cannot be ranked first if you go over grace..
For POI specifically: there are some judges who want to be able to tell a difference between the different pieces you use and will make a comment that your program “seems more like prose or poetry than POI”; I disagree with this—If we cannot tell a difference between your pieces, I think it shows how skilled you are at weaving your pieces together to create one coherent voice.