WSD (World Schools Debate):

No spreading, please!

Keep POIs at a minimum. (Around 1 or 2)

CLASH IS IMPORTANT, do it on second or third speech.

Have fun and win.

Debaters:

Please speak clearly and DON'T RUSH.

Organize your arguments and be sure to explain how your argument is more feasible than your opponent's.

DON'T RUSH.

Give me a good reason to vote for you by successfully proving that your opponent's argument is not practical.

Please watch your speed. If you're going too fast, it makes it harder for me to flow, so I just won't do it.

Respect your fellow debaters in general and during cross-ex.

Please don't yell.

Once again, DON'T RUSH.

I'm pretty close to tabula rasa. I'm not going to tell the contestants what to say to persuade me; it's up to them to come up with that. If contestants weigh arguments, I consider the relative weight they assign when evaluating the round.

I do have some preferences, though. I prefer real world topical arguments to fanciful ones (e.g., Harry Potter DA). I prefer resolution based arguments to theory, though I understand that sometimes theory is useful. I tend not to vote neg on topicality unless they can show aff's case is clearly abusive. I will vote on what is presented in the round, though, not based on an idea of what I think debate should look like.

I also have some preferences regarding structure. Signpost, signpost, signpost! Refer to arguments by which points and sub-points they fall under, as well as the sources of the cards.

I have no philosophical objection to speed, but if you speak to quickly for me to flow, you won't get credit for all your arguments. Word economy is preferable to speed.

My competition background is in LD. I have been judging LD and PF for about 10 years now. I also judge WS, but not CX (except for an NCX round once in a blue moon).

Ask me anything else you would like to know; I'm very approachable.

When it comes to interpretation events, I am drawn to performances that marry the synergy between literature, fully crafted performances, and effective blocking. I'll be looking for a well-crafted and engaging message that not only captivates the audience but also demonstrates a deep appreciation for the literary nuances in your chosen material. Ensure your content is not just spoken but embodied, utilizing effective blocking to enhance the visual dimension of your performance. Your delivery remains pivotal, so articulate your words with confidence, using your voice, body language, and strategic blocking to create a cohesive and immersive presentation. Pay attention to pacing and timing for a seamless and dynamic flow. Tell me a story, take me on a journey, and make me feel something!

I have a tabula rasa approach and I evaluate every debate based on what is presented to me in round.

I am open to all styles of debate.

I am a traditional judge. I normally judge speaking events and interpretation.

In interpretation, I appreciate natural acting in most events with the exception of Humorous. I believe you can be fully animated in Humorous Interpretation. ALWAYS have purpose for your blocking. If you have blocking just for the sake of blocking or tech, I will rank you down. It is better to have real emotion than "fake crying" or a "crying voice." Always be true to your character(s).

In speaking, speeches should be delivered at a pace that is easily understandable. Organization is key as well as keeping the audience interested with a great vehicle.

I do not flow spreading. I believe debate is a communication event, not who can get the most arguments in the least amount of time (there is not a difference in "fast speaking" and "spreading").

I will vote you down if you are rude or aggressive towards your opponent. It is one thing to debate and clash against an argument, it's another to attack your opponent.

If you plan on emailing the case to your opponent, please include me in email: lyn_esquivel@yahoo.com

For any speech, I would like to see organization in your writing, clear points, and good transitions. Strong points are necessary, but be sure to add your personality.

A good introduction is necessary to set up your piece and remind yourself as well as your judge why this is important to you. Be sure to be clear and to the point when speaking. A professional approach is always nice.

Blocking wise, I would hope to see clean movements that are purposeful. Utilizing your camera with your blocking is a nice way to add individuality. Character work will be evident, so make sure every look has a reason, every choice has a reason.

Insensitive or offensive topics/jokes are not my favorite.

Judge Name: Laurence Howard

sechs.laurencehoward@gmail.com

No School Affiliation

Years Judging: 5

Specialty: LD

Specific Paradigm(s): Games Player & Speaking skills/communications

Importance of (Scale of 1-10):

- Evidence (Inclusion of "hard" empirical evidence): 8

- Analysis (Logical claims explain the inherent problems): 8

- Clash (Refutation of opposing positions): 10

- Questions (Answers to questions clarify with precision): 9

- Delivery (Speaks smoothly, clearly, controlled, and polished): 10

Other comments: For me, the most important things are the ability to follow the logic of your arguments and refutation of opposing points -- why are your points important? why do they outweigh the arguments from the opposing side? Delivery and speed are super important to me as well; I'm glad you are providing evidence to help your position, but if I, and even your opponent, are unable to follow you because of speed or the constant use of the word "like" that becomes a problem.

For Interp Events: I like to see relatable pieces. I enjoy seeing how your passion comes through as your give your speech. I also appreciate preparation; along with a topic that is close to you, I want to see that you have sufficiently practiced and are ready to give your speech. (besides impromptu and improv of course)

rileydwing@gmail.com

Debate:

I am a firm believer that this is your debate not mine. As a result I view the round how the debaters ask me to.

The few things I request is professionalism, fairness, and politeness. This stops being an educational experience when you sacrifice any of those 3 things for a win. I ask that all debaters be polite and do not partake in any sort of shady behavior.

I am more than ok with spreading if I have the case in front of me.

Lastly write my ballot for me, tell me why you won. I can make connections mentally, but I vote off the flow so vocalize everything.

Speech:

Speech is equal parts argumentation as it is presentation, I believe that both are imperative to a high ranking. I will always prefer average speaking and great analysis to average analysis and fantastic speaking. If you have both expect a high ranking.

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

IEs - I look for honest storytelling, connection to the character, a clear and compelling journey, a fully connected voice and body while adhering to the parameters of any particular event, and honoring the intent of the playwright/author.

Oratory - In addition to the above, I look for building a compelling argument, and finding methods to make me consider the topic in ways I had not before.

Extemp - It is vital that students are talking TO the audience/judges, not AT them. Extemp is a conversation, and students should combine facts and figures with a truthful connection to their audience; they should engage and invite the audience to learn something new. Segues should happen naturally, both with regards to building your case, and also with regards to your physicality. Let the changes dictate movement, not vice versa.

More Information About Me - I am an Assistant Professor in Theatre & Musical Theatre at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, a freelance director, and the former Director of Artistic Programming at Ford's Theatre in Washington DC.

I prefer pragmatic analysis over evidence, but more recent/strong evidence is important.

I am impartial to conservative and liberal debating.

Outstanding speaking skills and presentation are always a plus.

Articulation is key for me to understand your argument better.

Extemp: multiple sources for each point, strong time

Oratory/ Info: Strong evidence made with every claim

Interp Events: introductions should give me a strong insight into what I am about to hear as well as why what your speaking about is of importance or relevance to you

Extemporaneous Speaking and Oratory: I prefer 3 pieces of evidence to support your speech.

Interpretation events: Teasers and introductions should be creative.

Blocking: If competing virtually, blocking should remain in the frame.

*If you are performing an emotional piece, please do not scream. Just speak loudly.

*I do not mind cursing as long as it does not take over your piece.

Whether you are in person or speaking virtually, public speaking skills stand out. Work for "eye contact" as opposed to reading speeches in debate events. Keep in mind that I need to be able to see and hear you clearly. Stand up and speak up. Speak with conviction and confidence. Perform with confidence. NO ONE knows your material better than you! (Even if you do not know your topic/material/case as well as you or miss a word, how would I know?! You need to sell me your side/piece/speech. Make me want to keep listening to you after the time has run out!)

As a congress judge, I will remind you that it is called Congressional DEBATE and not Congressional Speechmaking. Take time to refute the Representatives/Senators before you. Answer and ask questions with purpose and confidence. Be clear about evidence--in other words: HAVE SOME! Anyone that is brave enough to PO needs to know the procedure and must be able to be fair and unbiased.

For CX and LD, speed is not always your friend-- especially if we are virtual. Slowing down and articulation are the keys to a good debate. Also, Clash is not just a band from the '80s. I expect to be given solid reasons to vote for you. Perhaps use the last 30 sec of your last speech to crystalize the round for me. Tell me what is important. I may not be a fan of your K or CP, but if you present it well and defend it against attacks, I will vote on it.

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.

Background: Competed in New Mexico from 1998 - 2001. LD, US Extemp, and nearly all Interp events. Competed at NMAA District and State competition. Former coach at Tom Glenn High School and Danielson Middle School in Leander, Texas. Began both programs when both campuses opened in 2016 and 2020.

Current: Independent coach (OO in Maryland), judging predominantly online.

Debate Paradigm: I'm a tab judge who prefers to be treated as a lay judge. I don’t love spreading but won't ticket you for speeding. Always provide a road map, with special attention to how well you’ve researched and read on your value/plan. My decision hangs on clash, solid sparring in cross, proper use of prep (pre-round and during), and voters - literally tell me how you want me to vote down ballot. Literally change my life with your compelling case.

Interp Paradigm: As long as you're convincingly conveying your interpretation and are deliberate with every movement, you're on the right track. Unless Duet Acting, interpretation requires you to interpret the authors’ work. Take proper care of the author's work.

Extemp Paradigm: Extemp is the first event I was successful in as a competitor and helped me decide that I wanted to coach. I like a traditional set up and will take notes down ballot on: Teaser/AGD, Intro, Question/Answer, Points/Subpoints, Loads of Mixed Evidence, Closing/AGD. I expect tight signposts with an approachable delivery.

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

I've been in Speech and Debate for three years in high school, so I kinda know how it works. I've mostly done LD and PF debate, but I've not done much speech mostly because I can't memorize a speech to save my life.

Try not to spread too fast. I can understand a pretty fast rate of speech, but there's no point in debating if I can't understand your contentions.

If you bring me a Kit-Kat, or give me a controversial soccer or basketball opinion, I'll give you full speaker points.

Extemp: Some of my top priorities when it comes to ranking speakers in a round is who does the best job at providing unique information, showing you have a deeper level of understanding of the topic. If I can anticipate your argument, you have not dug deep enough. It is also very important to have a fully polished speech. If you have a very nuanced argument but you don't have enough background established or your transitions are choppy, your rank will go down. In terms of humor in your speech, don't use canned jokes, but I do appreciate witty remarks. Speaking is also just as important as your content. You must show solid presentation skills for argument to have an impact.

Congress: I prioritize the content of your argument over your speaking a lot when judging congress. The two parts of an argument that I look for the most is:

1. How much your argument adds to the debate and provides a unique take on the legislation.

2. How much your argument interacts with others in the round. I feel as if each speech should be integrated to fit perfectly where you’re speaking in the round and with the context of the other speakers. I of course want refutation, but make sure that refutation is in depth and more than just naming people and moving on.

Another thing to note, I have no problem with unconventional speech structure. Feel free to run just one point, give overviews, do whatever you think is best, just make sure the organization isn’t too difficult to follow.

For POs, know your procedure and make minimal mistakes and you will score high on my rankings.