Hey guys, I'm Alayna, I'm a Senior at Cabot High School. I am very professional and I know what I am doing when it comes to debating and I will do my best when I judge.

RESPECT: If I see that you are disrespecting your opponent, it will be an automatic L. This is one of the key components of debate. I DO NOT TOLERATE disrespect.

ALL STYLES OF DEBATE----Time keeping: MAKE SURE YOU USE ALL OF YOUR TIME!!!! Using all of your time is very important, when the timer goes off STOP it's ok, just make sure that you get majority of the things in that you want to get in.

Spreading: I'm okay with it.

Framework- This is important so use it, depending on the style of debate. If you want me to vote on your side because of your framework explain to me why.

Definitions- These are very important in all styles of debate so use them.

Line by line: This is very important in every style of debate, without this it is harder for the judge to know what you are rebutting against. This makes it easier for me and for you as well.

Road Maps: This is very important in every rebuttal speech, giving this will help me and your opponent writing in the flow.

I will not listen during cross ex, this is strictly for the debaters. This is where you clarify any questions that you may have and this is also to make trap questions. This part in this debate will be judged. THIS IS STRICTLY FOR YOU GUYS!!!

IPDA:

This is practically the same as LD but the topic varies obviously.

Use all of your time also keep your time!

Use all of your prep time before the round because it is the most important part of your case.

Spreading is fine if you know how to do it correctly, If you don't know how to then don't spread.

If you have any questions about anything this is my email:

adinealayn24@cps.k12.ar.us

Joelle Buckner

Put me on email chain: bucknjoell24@cps.k12.ar.us

Cabot High School

LD debater

Tech > Truth

LD

This is my main event, so I prefer to see a lot of clash plenty of warrants, and make sure not to drop your framework. As long as you extend and give me decent analysis on framework it will be weighed in your favor. Watch topicality, I am perfectly fine with progressive arguments I especially like good DAs and solid CPs.. sign post so it's easy for me to flow. Speaks are pretty easy, speak confidently and clear, I personally don't care about speed as long as I can understand you.

Congress

I took congress as an event for about a year, make sure you are aware of the P.O. and what is going on in the room. Be respectful and make sure not to be passing notes or making noise while a delegate is giving a speech. I base a lot of points on speech formatting and if it's easy to follow.

IPDA

I judge this kind of like I do LD, as long as you extend your arguments and speak confidently you are most likely going to win the round. The topics are not typically ones I enjoy so make it engaging.

Hi my name is Phoenix Fogle, I have been the cabot debate team for 2 years now and have done PF, BQ, and congressional debate.

TLDR-

Speak slow

Say things clearly

Put me in the email cain (foglep1@cps.k12.ar.us)

Truth over Tech

PF-

I like to hear really good questions asked in cross x

Don’t spend all your time taking down your opponents arguments / spend time building up what they took down.

Find good things that will take down your opponents biggest arguments

I like to hear why you have the bigger impact and if they drop it really touch on that

Don’t freak out when you can’t answer a question just take a breath and think it through.

You got this

BQ-

Make your points clear and neat

Don’t be all over the place when talking about what your opponents said

Be clear when you talk

I like to hear good reason why you have the bigger impact and why you are right

In cross x ask good questions and I like to hear you guys clash a little

Congressional debate-

Make you points clear

When asking questions don’t say statements and wait for them to respond, ask a question

P.O be clear with the taps don’t be too quit so I can hear

When giving your speech don’t read too fast I just want to make sure I can understand

Don’t keep calling on the same person over and over again, make sure to call on others.

General things:

I vote Truth over Tech

Always be nice and respectful to your opponents. Never use any insults or derogatory language towards your opponent. Don't stress too much about debate and be sure to have fun.

I'm mostly LD-centered, so if I'm not judging you for that, I'm probably not going to be the best judge.

Be sure not to be racist or discriminatory at all.

Lincoln Douglas Traditional:

I'd personally say I prefer traditional rounds over progressive, since I feel like those have more clash. In a regular traditional round, I don't value framework too much, but in return clash is incredibly important. I'll still end up voting on FW some times but losing the framework debate isn't a loss for the overall debate, it's just an additional reason for me to vote on way. Clash is the most important thing to me in a debate, because debate's meant to be an argument and not a meeting where people disagree on one tiny part of grammar - they're really unenjoyable to watch and debate and will make me voting for you harder. Burden's are always accepted, feel free to run any wild observations as long as they're not abusive. Overall, just make sure to have good case and framework debate, and to have good clash with your opponent.

Lincoln Douglas Progressive:

I'm not the greatest supporter of progressive arguments, but I'm totally fine if you run them as long as you make sure that your progressive argument has a clear link and isn't something kind of out of nowhere. I should always know how this relates to the topic, and it should relate in a clear way. If I can't understand it or it's too vague, I'm not flowing it

On the topic of counterplans, I think they're fun and good if done well. The counterplan should be a fairly different approach to solving the problem the affirmative is trying to solve. Your counterplan should clearly have benefits and less risks than are present in the affirmative's. If you end up agreeing with the affirmative with your CP I may flow that against you since those arguments restrict clash and education within debate. I wouldn't be too worried about this if you're running a CP, and if I end up flowing your CP against you it likely won't be the round decider, just be sure your counterplans are good and well made, and that they don't restrict argumentation.

Overall with progressive, just try try to make your links clear and have clash with your counterplans. Even though I'm more traditional, don't be afraid to try new progressive args.

Hello, I am Patrick Gunter. I am a current student at Cabot High School. I like PF, LD, and BQ, as this is what I have done.

TL;DR- spreading bad, truth>tech, progressive good, flow CX, be nice and stuff

LD-

don't spread, i like actually being able to flow

Be nice

I personally am tipped towards truth>tech because like idc how many arguments you make, if your opponent still has the better argument, they have the better argument and that's how it rolls

I LOVE progressive arguments. I also love very distinct arguments, like "violence>civil disobedience" provided that you can defend these arguments in a reasonable manner.

NEVER put the value of human life lower than it actually is...

CX- I lowkey flow cross ex but it's really just to keep track of any discrepancies... don't say "My opponent said in CX that.." if you know its not true, I'll already have it written down. ALSO I believe that CX should be somewhat heated... however heated does not mean you should be disrespectful

If you state/are aware that an argument is inherently prejudiced imma have to flow that argument to your opponents side

Not to sound mean but like if you start every speech with something like "Hello my name is Chris Hansen and I am debating for the affirmative side of this resolution..." do NOT expect your speaker points to be very high... it is extremely irritating as a judge to hear this because rarely will I address any debater by their name.. its general "Aff/Neg" and that will be your name to me

When it comes to weighing, theory can definitely come into your favor if you know how to use it. It is the debaters job to tell me how to weigh a debate... i.e. if morality is proven to be the framework, then I am a moral judge. If justice is the framework, I am now a just judge

IPDA- same as LD tbh

PF- I am by no means a lay judge with PF, I get that PF is supposed to be debated in a way that an inexperienced judge could easily comprehend but I have no problem with big words tbh. Don't introduce plans in PF, I automatically cannot flow this to your side. Theory also can be used in PF in my honest opinion but I didn't tell you that LOL. I just like progressive debate because it is way more interesting

Any form of misogyny, racism, and prejudiced behavior is a good way to lose....

Email me at guntepatri24@cps.k12.ar.us if you have questions, want advice, etc

ALSO--- "Bonus points" if you can correctly guess my favorite Hobbit movie

Hello! I'm a former Forensics student currently doing debate. I'm well versed in the LD format [and really love progressive debate] and have qualified at the district level on numerous occasions. I am the state runner-up for Big Questions style Debate in the Arkansas circuit. I've competed in several national tournaments and placed with both high speaks, and high placement. In other words, I understand the rules of these styles of debate. Do not assume that I don't, and I will vote people down who break rules.

Under no circumstances will I accept; false evidence, discriminatory evidence, and unnecessary profanity (if you're quoting something, you're fine, any other time and I'm tanking your speaker points).

On my judging habits, I'm a Tech over Truth most of the time. In other words, I'm willing to vote for the opposing side if you drop points. All you have to do is impact weight. That being said, if I believe something does outweigh and it was never directly mentioned in the round by either side, I'm still willing to vote on it. VERY IMPORTANT - I will always vote truth over tech for junior varsity unless I have a very good reason not to (i.e. dropping an entire case).

In terms of argumentation, there is a couple of things to avoid. The biggest one for me is overused impacts. I'm not a big fan of a super long linkage to nuclear war or climate change = extinction. However, something I absolutely love is super unique or nitpicky arguments. If you want to run it, go ahead. I prefer Traditional style debate, but I'm willing to listen to Progressive style IF YOUR OPPONENT IS! If the opponent says no, I will judge the round like a traditional judge. I can flow spread, but warn me if you're going to. Also, always do disclosure theory. I hate when people don't disclose.

NEW FOR NSDA NATIONALS 2024 -

Congratulations on qualifying for NSDA Nationals! These tournaments are some of the best you'll ever compete at, and getting here is a sign of a mature and wonderful debater. Couple of things to consider here at NSDA. One, progressive styles of debate are frowned upon in this circuit. I'm willing to listen to it, but other judges might not want to. Two, I am human, just like you. I understand this tournament is the biggest event of the year, but my decisions are based on what I hear in a round, not what you hear. Three, offensive language of any kind is unacceptable at a tournament of this caliber. You will automatically lose if you commit verbal attacks against your opponent, use racist, homophobic, ableist, etc. language, and most importantly, you will automatically lose if any evidence is fabricated or made up. I have no leniency at Nationals.

Good luck, and if you have any questions after the round is over, feel free to ask me, or email me at hicksremington94@gmail.comFor my LD peeps out there, start an email chain before the round, and you'll start off on 28 speaks.

Bradley House

Houseb1@cps.k12.ar.us

Congress:

Congress is a fun event that requires a lot of effort to speak and ask questions. I have done a handful of congress sessions and i am hoping to do more in the future. things that I like to see in congress are as follows.

~First you need to have at least 2 or 3 speeches in the congress round in order to attempt to score high.

~Second you need to ask a handful of questions. These shouldn’t be questions that are just fillers for time they should be ligenimet questions and concerns about a bill or resolution. Along with this it is fine if you don’t know an answer for a question or the question trips you up. There is always a way out.

~Also don’t use the same speech as someone else. We all know that sometimes people share things on a group drive and they tend to share speeches. I don’t care if you ask a friend for a speech. I do care about hearing the same speech 5 times.

~Lastly I do want to know sources and weather or not they are credible. If there not credible and you don’t say your source, how do i know weather it is reliable information.

~Bonus try to spread out speeches for both aff and neg. You need to learn about speaking on the other side even if you don’t agree with it. In the end you can make a speech that you don’t agree with then later vote the opposite of that speech.

Lincoln Douglas:

I have recently done a lot of LD this year. I have around 16 rounds of LD under my belt and it is a lot of fun. Things I like to see are as follows.

~Don’t have short speeches because you need every second of your speech. The only exception to me is if your opponent doesn’t have something to say and has a short speech then it is natural for you to have a shorter speech because there is not a lot to go on.

~you need to speak clear and precise. Speed doesn’t matter to me as long as you get your point across and you not stalling. I get it some of us speak slow and others fast you just need to try to find something that works for you. (If you are talking really fast just to try to impress people don’t it just makes our job harder)

~I will not judge cross exam unless it is brought up in the round. So if you have a hard question pinning you down and your opponent forgot to go off of it. Well then to me it never happened also. Don’t waste your time with questions because you might not understand at first but it is a wonderful tool to have.

~ for the arguments that you make i want to see a fight. Along with that one of the best things you can do is make a come back. To me this shows that you can deal with a situation and be able to figure out a solution.

~I am always flowing everything except questions. This is because unless i miss something i will know if you dropped a impact. When it comes down to it if you don’t repair your case and drop a impact chances are you will lose. Also if the opponent doesn’t speak on the thing dropped. Then to me it never happened.

~Tell me why you won. That way I know what I have to evaluate in the round.

~Bonus Don’t bring up contentions in you last speech or new information. This is because you should have brought it up earlier in the round.

Hello, I am a debater with cabot high school. I have been in debate for two years now and I compete in congressional debate! Feel free to email me at - bryleemleatherberry@gmail.com

TLDR-

-Quality of speech is better then amount

-speak with good eye contact

-any form of disrespect is not to be put up with

-have organized speaking

Congress- For congress I will judge on the quality of your speech not the amount. It doesn't matter how many speeches you do if they are not good speeches. In other words having less really good speeches would rank you higher than a lot of not so good speeches.Have clear points and speak well. I would like for you to have good eye contact and an organized speach.Be RESPECTFUL while someone else is speaking do not talk or be on your phone. Make sure to frequently ask questions and make sure you are respectful when asking questions too. As a PO I will judge you on how you handled the round. Make sure you remember recency and keep track of who and when is speaking.

Ld-While judging LD I would look for an organized speech with clear points. I will judge based on the best arguments, so make sure to have a strong and clear argument against your opponent. Convince me and other judges why your side should win the debate over your opponents.You should also have good eye contact and try to not just read your speech. Also make sure not to drop any arguments, have something to say against your opponents points.

Cabot High School Debate

I am a third year competitor in Debate, I am a Debate Captain at Cabot High School, and compete in Congressional Debate:

Congressional Debate:

Make sure to use parli pro correctly and make sure to speak on Bill correctly

If you are asking a question, make sure that it has relevance to the legislation.

When you are speaking, it has to be topical and within the time limit that is given.

Make sure that there is clash on the speeches.

Public Forum & LD:

Make sure that you give a Roadmap or Signpost

Rebuttals need to be topical and use a good balance of evidence and logic

Arguments should have a clear link to the topic

With definitions don't make them the most important part of the debate

Framework debate can be crucial to win the round.

Clash is also one of the most important things to make the winning points.

Overall: Make sure to respect the opponents and the judge when debating.

Quick facts about me:

- I specialize in PF

- I have judged Public Forum and Lincoln Douglas

TLDR

- Not a fan of spreading; try to go a moderate speed

- I will keep the time of speeches, but competitors can as well.

Be respectful; I understand debates can get heated, but keep a calm and cordial attitude.

• Camera's on is preferable (virtual only)

- Do not use progressive cases! 

PF

- Keep a clear, logical case

- Use prep wisely, you only have three minutes!

- Use reliable sources; it won't cost you a round, but it is preferable.

- Be careful when you come across a divisive case; things can become very messy very quickly.

- Use framework

LD

- Tech over Truth

- Be passionate when you speak; I don't want monotonous speakers, it is quite dull.

I do not encourage derogatory remarks of any kind. If any comment is made, you will automatically lose the round.

Overall, I enjoy a clean, fair fight. You don't win a debate based on how loud you are, but how well your argument is constructed.

Hi everyone! I’m Abigail Montgomery and this is my 2nd year in the debate program but my first year competing at CFA! I compete in Congressional debate but have also competed in Big Questions and Lincolin Douglas in the past.

TLDR;

Don’t speak super fast and make sure you’re speeches are a reasonable length

For any concerns, you can reach me at Montga2@cps.k12.ar.us

Don’t be afraid to ask each other questions, or answer them later in a speech

Please feel free to clash with your opponent, but stay respectful

I won’t tolerate any form of disrespect

Congress - I will be focusing my judging on how well you speak and the structure of your overall argument (don’t get up and just rattle on about the overall topic for 3 minutes). For POs I will be paying attention to your parliamentary procedure and how you overall run the chamber while also keeping track of your order of speakers. Don’t restate arguments and don’t be afraid to ask questions. If someone has previously stated one of your contentions then drop it out of your speech and move on. Don’t give a short speech just because you’re trying to get one in before the end of the round. You need to be respectful to the other people in your chamber as well, so be respectful during their speeches and questioning period.

LD - Please signpost your speeches when you begin and when speaking don’t rush your speech, especially since I will be flowing the round. My opinion on tech over truth depends on the resolution, but I will focus my judging on your overall speaking skills and how well your argumentation is. Don’t hesitate to call out your opponent on something they say, and you should always answer their questions in cross-examination. Don’t ever drop an argument just because of your opponent. You need to respect your opponent as well, I understand that you can get heated during a round but that’s no excuse for being rude or cruel to your opponent.

Email: mordenannabelle@gmail.com

Personal attacks on your opponent will result in an immediate loss. Any discriminatory language, racism, sexism, ableism or other forms of hate will not be tolerated.

Do not misgender your opponent…it is just like, rude?

LD-

Theory is meh but I'm willing to hear it out

Almost always tech>truth

K affs can be good

Disclosure good

LD-

CX: Just don’t be a jerk, it’s unprofessional and unflattering. I respect debaters who utilize CX rather than just asking shallow questions. Sarcasm is good (just don't over do it)

Speaking-

I'm cool with spreading, just don't spread unless you are experienced in that field. I will drop points for incoherent, jumbled speaking.
-Speak with intent, if you don’t understand or mean the words being read, then you have the disadvantage in the debate. Keep me intrigued, you have a better chance of winning if you are passionate about your case.

Styles-

I respect that there are many styles of debate, however I prefer progressive. I am persuaded by logical and warranted arguments, I love Ks, especially Ts if done right. If you’re going traditional, it is imperative that you provide voting issues or at least a clear reasoning behind why I should vote for you, I think it just spices up the round. Going progressive, make sure your k’s have links. Lack of link takes away from your case drastically.

No topicality arguments unless you truly and utterly believe it is essential to the debate. Otherwise, I believe topicality is abusive of your rights as neg/aff

Fw- I’ll hear anything out; even TVAs as long as it has a solid relation to the topic. Fw is about LBL and explaining why your topic mode is good. The fw debate is very important to me, drop it and I will struggle to vote on your side.

Link turns are good, impact turns to education are great when explained right

If you aren’t going to at least try and maintain clash in 1nr/2ar, don’t bother speaking at all. Clash is essential to the structure of LD, please do not disregard this

IPDA-

Speaker points-

I understand it's not easy to formulate an entire case in 30 minutes, however please try and keep things organized. A messy case will result in lower speaks. Make sure you aren't just speaking to speak, if you aren't sure what to talk about, reiterate previously made points and tell me why they matter. Speak with intent, convince me that I should vote for you; don't simply read off of a script, I could do that myself, it's your job to give meaning to those words.

Clash. If you do not respond to your opponents arguments with either logical or warranted claims, then don't expect me to flow what you said. Clash is very important, if you can provide adequate defense/offense then I'll be sure to weigh that when making my decision

Affirmative- please do not abuse your right to define, debate requires a certain extent of fairness.

Contact me if you have any further concerns, I will gladly answer any questions you may have

Hi! Looking forward to meeting you all in my rounds! I have been debating for almost 2 years, and in this time I have debated a few formats, being BQ, LD, and PF. Pronouns are He/Him. If you have any further questions, please ask them BEFORE the round begins. I do have a few notes about my judging preferences:

IPDA: Although it is nice to have preparation for your rounds, I don't want it to just be about sources. I want to hear how your sources tie back to your topic, as well as your own arguments. Use your sources as EVIDENCE for your argument rather than the BASIS for your argument. IPDA is a format about improvisational skills. I don't want it to seem as if you are reading off of a script for the entirety of your speech. Although not essential, I strongly encourage you use unique arguments, as that is more fun for me as a judge and leads to more interesting clash. PLEASE signpost your arguments. It makes them easier for me, as your judge, to flow. Off-time road maps are encouraged AS LONG AS YOU STICK TO THEM.

Public Forum: Public Forum is my favorite type of Debate, both to watch and participate in. I love the clash in rounds, which is amplified by the cross examination periods. Please be sure to use this period wisely to further your case. Off-time roadmaps are encouraged as long as you stick to them. Please signpost your arguments. Also, I can not stress this enough: DO. NOT. SPREAD.

LD: Don't SPREAD and support your values. That's it. SPREADing makes it SO MUCH MORE DIFFICULT TO FLOW and is not fun to listen to.

BQ: BQ is a very fun format and I love the topic this year. I would love to see clash on issues or discrepancies, as well as unique and well thought out arguments. Remember that Big Questions is not a debate about sources, but a debate about the Philosophical aspects of the topic.

Miscellanious:

Be Nice <3

Funny or Creative contention names are always nice :>

If you have any questions for me let me know :D. You can email me in two locations (I would encourage both)

Jaydondakigh@gmail.com

Noblejaydo24@gmail.com

I am more likely to answer if you use my school Email, as I am more active on that one with talking to teachers and conducting debate business. Thank you for having me as your judge! See you soon!

Cabot High School Senior Captain

TL;DR

I’m good with all arguments

Tech over truth

Make sure to not drop points

Don't give fake evidence, instant loss if you cannot provide the cards if asked.

Attack the case not the person, I will deduct a large amount of speaker points if you're attacking the person.

Have fun with the debate

I have started debating at Cabot since 8th grade. I am okay with all arguments. Use whatever you want as long as it doesn't discriminate against anyone. Make sure that you properly explain all arguments and don't just throw out buzzwords and jargon.

BQ

I generally prefer the standard of morality in BQ but if you can give me a reason not to, then that's great. You don't need to have a lot of statistics for BQ. I personally prefer well spoken arguments and slower speaking in BQ, but I will evaluate anything. Make sure you explain how your arguments and cards connect. I'm fine with all arguments as long as they are relevant.

PF

Make sure to take advantage of any definitions you can. Impact is very important policy wise so make sure to flesh it out throughout the entire debate. Fake evidence equals instant loss. If I cannot trust one piece of evidence I can't trust any of your evidence. Just argue well, If I am not given a weighing mechanism I will default to cost benefit analysis. Just debate and do it well, like I already said up above, I will evaluate any argument as long as it is explained well.

LD

I prefer that you link in your arguments and give me a reason to vote for you. Make sure to expand on your points and impact if you have one. These are important parts of the debate and give me a clear reason to vote. Make sure you expand on your framework and show me why I should consider your value/criterion over your opponents if the framework makes a difference. If the framework doesn't matter, then don't extend it.

Although your argument may hold truth I prefer the technical parts of the debate (i.e. you drop what they say about your point, and it is false if they are right). One thing I don’t like is trying to discredit sources just because they are from the past or not within the past 4 years; yes, it is important to have up to date sources, but at the same time it is not necessary if it is an analytical argument. If you do make an argument on the credibility of sources don't just say it's not credible, you also need to explain why I can't vote on it because of the lack of credibility. I know the connection is obvious, but unless you make it that connection, it won't be on the flow. If an opponent asks for a card provide the card or you lose credibility.

Congress

Just don't discriminate against anyone. Answer questions effectively. I don't do congress very much so I'll be frank and just say you're unlucky to have me.

IPDA

Same stuff for LD basically. Just make sure you explain your points well, I think IPDA is a great opportunity to show off the fundamentals of debate.

Isabella Parker

parkeisabe24@cps.k12.ar.us

Cabot High School

Formally a LD debater but I have competed in other forms

TLDR: You can put me on the email chain for your speech, email is above. Please have a clear voice and a direct rebuttal, it will be easier on both of us to flow, I also like clashes that are backed up with evidence and facts. And please respect your opponent, any type of racist, sexist, or problematic comments can result in points dropped. I am okay with speed as long as you have a clear voice and not mumbling. I am keeping time, but I think you should too.

LD: I believe framework, definition, and impact debates are important to winning a debate, I advise you to have a direct rebuttal or argument that clashes with your opponent's argument as well; do not make me assume what your rebuttal to that argument is. I view dropped arguments as a judge and a debater, so try to answer as many points as you can even if you don't have evidence to back it up, although I prefer evidence. Make sure not stray off topic of your debate. I do listen to cross-examination, so be respectful.

PF and IPDA: I have done PF a couple times last year but the same rules with LD to me applies with PF when it comes to the rebuttal, dropped arguments, framework, definitions, and impacts, and cross-fire. I have not debated nor judged many IPDA rounds, but I do know rules and framework for how the debate should go.

Congress: I have not done Congress virtually, however I have done Congress before. I believe that quality is better than quantity, meaning clear speaking in Congress is more important than the number of speeches you give. I think questions asked are good in Congress, I am still learning Virtual questioning, yet questions to me are viewed. If you are the one answering questions, answer with confidence and the same thing applies with asking questions.

A little bit about me :)

- I am a public forum (PF) debater, I have done Lincoln Douglas on occasion but PF is my cup of tea.

- I have judged PF, LD, and IPDA in the past and I absolutely love judging

- I am a public forum captain so if you have any questions or need any help, feel free to email me ~ robbihaley24@cps.k12.ar.us

Now into what I do and don't like in a round. All of these go for IPDA, LD, PF, Congress...you name it

PROGRESSIVE CASES

I absolutely despise progressive cases. Don't try to run them unless you don't have another case prepared. I'm a pf debater, meaning that I like more traditional, slower, and "general audience" arguments

SPREADING

When virtual: If you are anything like me then you love to speak quickly. I feel like with the nature of debate we want to talk as fast as possible to allow us to have as much information as possible. With that being said, when debating virtually I do not like when you spread. When you speak quickly over the chromebook, your words get mushed together because the computer can't keep up. I am not afraid to stop you mid-speech and tell you to slow down. When you spread, that not only affects your opponents but it also makes it harder for me to hear what you're saying.

When in person: Feel free to speak as fast as you like but fair warning, I value content over presentation. I am not impressed if you can speak 400 words per minute. BUT if I can't get all your information written down because you are talking faster than Edward Cullen can run, then that might affect the outcome of the debate because like I said content>presentation

CROSS EXAMINATION

I do not flow CX, the only thing that I will write down is your behavior. Debate is not supposed to be a hostile activity, show your opponent respect and don't talk down to them or treat them like dirt. Standing your ground and a bit of sass is permitted and also encouraged. I love clash but if you start to be mean to each other, it can affect who the winner of the round is.

FLOWING/REBUTTALS

I expect everyone to flow the opponent's case because when you move into your rebuttal speech I strongly encourage doing line-by-line. I will always flow EVERYTHING when judging but I don't want to have to go on a wild goose chase to try and figure out what you are refuting. If something is not addressed in your rebuttal speech I WILL COUNT IT AS A DROPPED ARGUMENT, so do your absolute best to refute all aspects of the opponent's case. If your opponent doesn't respond to one of your arguments BRING IT UP IN THE NEXT SPEECH. If you don't bring it up then I don't know. I will write down what you say and to preserve the fairness of the round, if you don't say it..it didn't happen.

RDF

I don't care who spoke better or who had the better questions in cross, whoever has the most of their case still standing is the winner. If you bring up arguments in your final speech it might change my decision against you because your opponent cannot respond. If you bring up any contradictions or you use faulty evidence you will not be the winner. If your plan is to reform the resolution then the other team automatically wins because you have brought up arguments that the other team is not prepared for. When giving a verbal RDF, I will tell you how it is. If you cannot handle the harsh truth then let me know beforehand and I will only put it on the ballot.

BEHAVIOR

Any offensive, discriminatory, sexist, hateful, harmful words or profanity will lose you the round. If you chose to belittle or as I call it "mansplain" words, events, or actions to your opponent you will lose. I do not tolerate people putting down their opponents based on their sex, race, sexuality, religion, culture, or appearance. Debate is meant to be a safe space so if you disrupt the peace, you will lose the round, and Selah or your coach will be hearing about it directly from me. (Which you do not want because I am very blunt.)

Best of luck to you in your rounds and I can't wait to judge for you!

EJ Robertson (She / Her)

Cabot High School

I have been in the Cabot Debate program for 3 years now. I have competed in Congress, Extemp., BQ, World Schools, and PF.

TL;DR

Tech over Truth

Articulate well, moderate speed. I won't flow what I don't understand.

Make it interesting, I like a lot of clash

Line-by-line rebuttals

Make sure to be confident in your speaking and have fun!

Public Forum

A really good speaker is usually what sets one side apart from the other, so make sure to be confident and articulate well. Framework is usually neglected, but I feel that’s one of the most important aspects of weighing the round. I like unique arguments, but make sure that they have solid reasoning. Clear road maps are important, and a line-by-line on the rebuttals make it a lot easier for me to flow and evaluate the round. Make sure to be respectful, don’t say anything that’s racist, sexist, homophobic, etc. because that shouldn’t really be part of debate. Clash also makes the debate more interesting, and it makes it easier to see which arguments are conceded to or dropped. Don’t make any new arguments during final focus, as it makes it difficult for the opponent to respond. Weighing is important because it tells me how to evaluate which side won. I also enjoy impact debates, but don't focus on it too much / go off topic because of it. Give enough time to rebuild or crystalize all arguments, don't spend too much time on one and neglect the others.

Lincoln Douglas

Again, speaking is VERY important, so make sure to speak clearly and confidently. Framework / Value and Criterion are extremely important, as they show me how to evaluate which side I give the win to at the end of the day. I like unique arguments that really challenge the other side. I like impact debates, just don't focus on them too much. Do a line-by-line rebuttal, because it makes it easier to flow. Make sure to be respectful and don’t say anything that is racist, sexist, homophobic, etc.

Congress

Quality > quantity. Make sure to be confident, remember that you’re talking to your fellow delegates, not the judges. Road map should be clear so that I know where to flow on the ballots. Make sure your arguments have good impacts, and going a little over time is better than going under imo. Questioning period is important to reinforce or build up arguments, so make sure to answer questions with substantial arguments. PO should know how to do their jobs, keep time, and use precedence and recency to call delegates. Make sure to be respectful during the debates and have fun.

Contact me:

schnee1@cps.k12.ar.us

LD:

For LD I enjoy seeing a framework debate and I enjoy yall trying to make me see the round through your “lenses”. Your framework should make sense for the case that you are making to me and you should bring up your framework throughout the entire debate if you are going for a framework debate. If you manage to convince me AND point out to me during a speech that your opponent dropped the framework then there is a good chance you will win the round (as long as it is a framework debate between the both of you and not just one of you). Although framework is a big part you should also try and still create clashes with the opponent's argument and if possible use it to your frameworks advantage.

Definition Debate For LD:

I can also get along with a definition debate as long as it makes sense and it is a topic that heavily relies on definitions (i.e. Is Civil Disobedience in a Democracy Morally justified?). In a definition debate I would still like to see clashes with the opponent's argument and I would still like to see defense for your case. Make sure you don’t get wound up in one thing because if you concede to points and your opponent mentions it I don’t care how good your definitions are I have to vote your opponent up.

Progressive debaters:

I am fine with a progressive debate as long as you make it make sense to me. I don’t want to be told a case that makes absolutely no sense and a case that your opponent can’t even defend against. If you give your speeches on a case that you randomly made I see it as unfair towards the other opponent and you will end up losing the round. Just don’t be too radical if you are going to be progressive and make sure the case is understandable.

P.s. to everybody

BE RESPECTFUL AT ALL TIMES

Congress:

Make sure you speak with confidence and you don’t fidget much. Make sure to list your sources in your speech and make sure that they are credible as well (you don’t want to list PETA as a source). This is a very heavy public speaking event and I understand nerves but don’t let them show. During the questioning period be respectful and don’t cut the other person off. Also during questioning don’t beat around the bush unless it is leading to something. Be polite while others are speaking and if you are going to talk make sure it is barely a whisper if I hear anyone besides the speaker I will ask that yall be quiet or stop talking in general. The PO should know what they’re doing and make sure to keep things fair. All in all be a good speaker and it doesn’t matter how many speeches you gave because quality over quantity.

If you do an email chain, include me simsmikay24@cps.k12.ar.us

No disrespect will be tolerated.

No discriminatory comments.

Best if you kept your own time.

Lincoln Douglas

tech vs. truth

link all arguments to value

IPDA

tech vs. truth

Speech:

use all of speech and prep time

if you speak fast send opponent and I your case

go down flow when refuting

don't make up new points in your last speech

CP:

run them

Flow:

road maps are appreciated

let me know your order so I know how to flow

Bailey Van

Cabot - Class of 2024

Add me on the email chain: vanb1@cps.k12.ar.us

Interests & Preferences

Talking Speed: Speed is alright as long as I can clearly hear you and your arguments. Be mindful of internet glitches and cut-outs because if I can not understand you, then I will not flow your speech.

Argumentation: I am a technical debater, meaning that I prefer technical arguments over truth arguments. Be sure to sell me on your arguments and explain how your opponent conceded to your impacts because that will be a huge advantage on your side!

Big Questions

I consider myself a rebuttal type of judge since I am a huge fan of clashing and turning around argumentation, so be sure to include a lot of those in your debate! Other than that, make sure to speak in an articulate manner as well as listen to your opponents’ speeches and main points.

Congressional

Speaking is the most important factor in this style of debate because you need to present your arguments well enough in order to succeed. Make sure to slow down as well as enhance your emotions up a bit because debating with little confidence will not be convincing enough!

Lincoln Douglas

Framework framework framework. This is crucial for winning the debate round because it is the overall “structure” on what your whole argument should be based on. Try to tie it in with the impact calculus since that can play a heavy role on your side. Make sure to not go too overboard with it because it can get repetitive sometimes. Other than that, be sure to speak clearly and provide a good line-by-line argumentation to help organize the whole round.

Public Forum

Impacts are a big factor in winning this style of debate, so make sure to weigh heavily on that during the round. I would also love to see you provide some sort of framework so it can help me view the round better in YOUR lens. It is not a huge deal, but I would definitely prefer it!

World Schools

Framework is a big deciding factor when it comes down to the winner of this debate round because I need to know how to view the round. The content should also emphasize more on the impacts of your side instead of just having pure definitions, so be mindful of that.

Non-Interests & Dislikes

I do not tolerate being rude or disrespectful toward your opponents because at the end of the day, it all comes down to sportsmanship. This includes being racist, homophobic, ableist, etc. towards people.

Mark Warford

IPDA Captian @ Cabot Debate

IPDA:

The way I judge rounds is fairly simple, I like to have good clashes in rebuttals and look for arguments that get past or debaters don't talk about. I will look for the side that takes down more of the other side's points and defends themself. I would love it if both sides gave a weighing mechanism and a roadmap. Something that I am always open to is discussion debate, it can help make the round more enjoyable from a judging standpoint and I encourage it. The last thing that I will judge on is how good your points are, since it is IPDA I won't be judging so harshly on evidence but your points need to make sense.