New cosponsor of Elkins High School debate team.

Clarity is very important -- guide me through each step of the analysis. Solid, clear structure with a confident delivery.

Pronouns: she/her

TLDR: be ethical

I debated for Seven Lakes in TX for four years. Primarily Congress and Extemp, Public Forum and World Schools here and there.

Email if you have questions before/after round! corinaaniceto743@gmail.com

Overall:

1. Misgendering (especially if not corrected or done intentionally) is an automatic drop for me.

2. It's not as simple as it sounds running a case without implicit biases. Be considerate.

3. I check cards, do not use anything fake or reinterpreted.

4. Trigger warnings are important, but it is absolutely not an excuse to use extremely insensitive, descriptive rhetoric.

Extemp:

Please, answer the question. Your subpoints should directly support your response. Good sourcing is expected, entertaining speeches are given bonuses. Make sure to signpost and don't scream.

I welcome creative structures. Though, I can tell if your two point speech was only a result of being ill-prepared.

I appreciate sourcing even more. Academic sources are preferred: think government data, think tanks, books, etc. News organizations should fall shorter on the list.

CX should be a benefit to you, don't choke. Show me what you know.

Congress:

Rehash is the easiest way for me to drop your rankings. If you GENUINELY have new analysis to add, you should be good enough at reframing that it doesn't become rehash.

I appreciate solid sponsors/authors. Two stock arguments is not a sponsor.

Late round crystals should be well done, focus on weighing and not new arguments.

Clash is important, but wasting 20 seconds name dropping is not. You have 3 minutes, use them well.

If your side hasn't properly addressed a strong opposing arg, I will appreciate clashing it.

Don't ask questions that have zero relevance to the speech's content or anything overly vague during CX. I'm won't be impressed if you ask a million questions that lead the round nowhere. Don't be overly aggressive, I will down you for being disrespectful, ie. cutting the other person off.

Especially with precedence charts, I always use quality > quantity of speeches.

Presentation matters, do not have your eyes glued to a pad or google doc. Especially not printed sheets

PF:

I will vote off theory and Ks. I'm extremely progressive but I can tell when this is being abused. Just be respectful.

Weigh early, extending is important, analysis is just as important as your cards.

Roadmaps are appreciated.

Cross is important, make the most of it, but don't get overly aggressive

I weigh evidence quality.

Number your responses and collapse well.

Content warnings or exemptions through google forms are highly appreciated.

I will disclose if allowed.

Hey, My name is Carmela!

About me: I'm currently a college policy debater, however have competed throughout high school in congress, PF, worlds, OO, and INFO.

World Schools Debate

- Love passionate speakers, great eye contact, and overall voice inflection

- I vote off of the effective weighing of arguments, crystallization, and who best solves the issue at hand.

- If I hear any classist, sexist, or racist arguments/remarks it is almost an automatic down & I will be very upset so please refrain from doing so.

- Please signpostttt, framing is crucial in worlds!

I will always track your time, however I will not stop you mid-speech if you go over time. It is expected that you time yourself effectively when in the round.

PF/LD

- put me on the email chain - carmela.asmar@gmail.com

- Spreading is fine not preferred, just try to be clear and concise.

- If I see no links or warranting I most likely won't vote for you. Ex. tell me how workers striking will lead to nuclear warfare... don't just throw out claims

I will always track your time, however I will not stop you mid-speech if you go over time. It is expected that you time yourself effectively when in the round. ( I don't like to be mean and say stop loudly, but if you go over time I just won't flow what you say.)

hi! my name is nitya and i am currently a senior at seven lakes high school! i have been competing on the circuit for the last four years primarily in world schools debate, platform speaking (info/oo), and extemp (mostly foreign/international but i'm also very familiar with domestic/us). i have specific things i am looking for/judging on for different events, so i will list those below.

platform (oo/info): generally, i want a very clear structure and organization for your speeches. for info: history, current-day, and implications (this is more flexible, but the points shouldn't bleed and there should be a clear thesis for your speech). for oo, there needs to be three super distinct sections: problem, impact, and solution- i like tangible solutions. for general presentation requirements, speak with good tone, clarity, and vocal variation. good hand gestures and a speaker's triangle are always a plus. i can also tell if you're not memorized, and memorization is a big part of these events. for info specifically, your boards (if you have them) do not need to be revolutionary; however, they shouldn't detract from your speech or BE your speech- they are there to ADD to your speech. i will not give you a high rank just because your boards are nice, you have to sell it with your speech too. i also like vehicles.

worlds: clear arguments- this is a big one, don't let the debate get too muddy or too theoretical. the event is pretty evenly split on style and content; however, if style is pretty evenly matched, i'm voting on arguments. default to i'm voting on arguments. be aware of wording- in worlds "this house believes/supports/regrets" are NOT action items- i CANNOT vote on solvability is is more theoretical. with "this house would/should" has solvability because the house is actually acting. this is a pet peeve of mine, so do be aware. although there is no evidence in the form of cards/citations in worlds, you NEED to have examples (i know this is harder for impromptu, but solely theoretical examples is not strong/won't be compelling). overall, be clear, be strong in style, and be winning on the flow.

extemp: i'm not a stickler for citations, have them, cite them correctly, but don't let them be your whole speech. i love a good umbrella answer when done correctly, it deepens analysis and it's good. you can be cadence-y that's fine, but still have vocal variation. hand gestures and speaker's triangle are a must. characterize the situation always, never assume i will know exactly what you're talking about. humor is always good, but not necessary.

impromptu: all stylistic stuff from extemp applies here too. use examples, real-world and personal are good.

pf/ld: treat me as lay, be convincing.

Trinity University '26 | Seven Lakes '22

Email Chain: priyankabehera145@gmail.com

General:

Tech > Truth as long as the arguments are well warranted

I'm fine with speed, but don't compromise on clarity; send me a speech doc if you're going to spread

Signpost arguments and tell me exactly where you are on the flow

I don't flow dropped arguments or anything said after time

I like a good cross-ex with clash and don't flow unless there's a major turn or concession

Please be respectful to each other throughout the round

Specific:

Second rebuttal needs to address all arguments introduced to the debate. And, first summary needs to respond to attacks made during rebuttal, otherwise, it's conceded.

I am okay with collapsing, but if there is a turn on an argument in your case, you need to respond to it.

Summaries need to extend arguments- uniqueness, link, internal links, and impact. If you don't, you won't have access to your arguments during final focus. No offense = no reason for me to vote for your side.

Final focuses should be big picture and extensive on weighing. Give me reasons that I should vote for you. There shouldn't be any new arguments at this point in the debate.

Feel free to ask any questions before the round if I haven't addressed anything.

Speak slowly if you can, i'm not very experienced with fast speakers.

I like to hear numbers in terms of impacts, and clean link chains.

disclosure/email chain: Arlin.birkby@outlook.com

A lay decision means you probably won't like the decision. Additionally, if there is an evidence indict by the end of the round but I am unclear on how I should vote and I call for the evidence and the indict is falsified, then I will intervene for the other team.

- Don't spread unless you send a speech doc. Check your word count, if your below 250 wpm then you should be good, I still have the right to call clear tho and I will unless you send a speech doc.

When sending a speech doc send an actual doc, don't just send screenshots of the cards and the files that you're reading; send full text. If your reading paraphrased text of cards thats fine but just be ready to send them at an instant when your opponent calls for them.

- I love theory debate, i will hack for paraphrasing/dates/disclosure theory so long as you explain it okay and show an actual instance of them breaking the interpretation.

please don't read non case specific overviews that are like 1 min long and hard to flow, if its a disad just call it a disad.

No offensive overviews or disads if second speaker because you have a structural advantage. If you do run this and your opponents run theory on you for doing this by summary i will still vote off it.

i do believe that cross is binding, that said, I won't flow it but will remember what was said

----Lincoln Douglas----

- More of a traditional judge

-Tech over truth majority of the time-just make sure your arguments are well warranted

I'm fine with theory or K's as long as it's not frivolous.

I understand performances so long as they are well warranted and somewhat topical. I won't down you for running a non topical performance but will if somebody reads a topicality shell against you and is somewhat decent at it.

-if your going to spam tricks at least be ethical. no hiding trick texts in the cites of a card in a doc. if you do i wont down you for it but if they run theory for you doing it i will vote off it.

-Do flesh out your arguments with warrants and analysis

General stuff

give me a simple road map, if its just the good ol "our case their case" or "down their case" for first rebuttal then you can hop right in without one.

i like narrative based arguments that start at the top of every speech, just make sure not to spend too much time on them because i won't vote on them unless they are offense and are explained as so.

framework-please don't read these in pf, frameworks (more often than not) don't have offense and do not contain a ROTB, meaning even if your opponents drop it i can't vote for you solely based off of framework. Only read this if you add in some weighing under your framework like a prereq or something and then that might be something to consider. I always default cost/benefit framework.

blips-an argument must have at least a warrant in it, assertive blips are not arguments and thus can be ignored within the round. if your opponents read blips just point it out and tell me. For example saying "pharma will always market so marketing NU" is not an argument. However, saying "pharma always has an profit incentive to market so marketing NU" is an argument. The difference is in the warranting.

Evidence Ethics

Here is a list of my preferences when it comes to evidence. These are things that I think would be great norms for the community to set, and practices that I will reward with increased speaker points.

1. Quote evidence directly when it is first presented. I will not vote against you for paraphrasing. But, I will vote on the paraphrasing theory shell if argued persuasively (and I am predisposed to vote for it).

2. Level an evidentiary challenge against opponents who are misusing evidence. I will reward correct evidence challenges with a W and block 30s. Please do this if your opponents are lying about their evidence.

If both teams fail to ethically represent evidence in the debate, no team will get higher than a 26, neither side gets to tell me that their evidence is better, and all arguments become your own analysis, without cards."

Prep

Tell me when you start and stop prep, I am fine with flex prep as long as both teams are as well. If your timer goes off at the end of your speech and cuts you off, you may finish your sentence. I don't flow anything that goes over 15 seconds. ( barring extenuating circumstances such as wifi outages)

SPEAKER POINT BREAKDOWNS

30: Excellent job, you demonstrate stand-out organizational skills and speaking abilities. Ability to use creative analytical skills and humor to simplify and clarify the round.

29: Very strong ability. Good eloquence, analysis, and organization. A couple minor stumbles or drops.

28: Above average. Good speaking ability. May have made a larger drop or flaw in argumentation but speaking skills compensate. Or, very strong analysis but weaker speaking skills.

27: About average. Ability to function well in the round, however analysis may be lacking. Some errors made.

26: Is struggling to function efficiently within the round. Either lacking speaking skills or analytical skills. May have made a more important error.

25: Having difficulties following the round. May have a hard time filling the time for speeches. Large error.

Below: Extreme difficulty functioning. Very large difficulty filling time or offensive or rude behavior.

CX- 1) no excessive speed. 2) K's must apply to aff, have impact, must provide a weighing mechanism. I don't vote for a K that simply reflects a wrong in SQ- Aff needs to have caused it. Ultimately weighing adv , disads is critical

LD- !) Value/ crit can be critical, but often depends on the topic. When topics are policy oriented, I can vote on policy. Regardless, I find standards to be important, especially how debaters respond.

I prefer all debate styles, whether CX, LD or PF to have a structure that makes it easy for me to flow. I like 1's, 2's 3's or A B C.

PF 1. obviously clash is a must. I prefer all debaters take part in grand cross fire, but will judge on case by case. Clear impacts and weighing mechanism.

Extemps

1. Make sure your address the topic.

2. While number of sources cited isn't terribly critical, I do expect facts, etc. to be supported with sources. One two sources is not enough.

3. i liked good, creative intros. Not a fan of the 'extended metaphor' intro.

4. I prefer a natural delivery to a more forced, stilted one.

Oratory

1. Good unique topics appreciated. Substance, significance of topic takes a slight edge over delivery, but only slight. A little humor along the way is always good.

POI

1. I prefer a POI that recognizes a manuscript is being used. At least a little, please. A variety of emotional appeals works best.

HI, DI

1. HI should make me laugh or smile really hard. I look for development of characters, if possible. Not a big fan of R rated selections.

2. DI should build to climax, both in selection and performance.

Prose, Poetry

1. As with POI, I like to see a manuscript being used at least a little. Something unique is always nice to hear, but nothing wrong with the classics. Again, build to the climax.

Congress

1. Be an active member of the session.

2. The least effective position to take is one that has already been given by a previous speaker.

3. Congressional debate requires debate. Rebuttal points, naming specific other speaker, gets the most positive judging response.

4. Don't be afraid to be PO. I appreciate, a good PO, and will take that into account when ranking.

I am a parent lay judge. Analytical and thoroughly explained responses are preferred, but if you have evidence make sure to tie it back to your response. Speak at a normal pace, with minimal fluency breaks. Make sure to keep your own time, and be respectful during cross. My RFD will be based on the arguments I understand the most.

Jess Chai (she/her)

Debated for Seven Lakes High School for four years on nats circuit

add me to the chain: jessjc022@gmail.com

General tldr:

Please try to preflow and start an email chain before round to speed things up, tech>truth, speed is fine just send docs. As long as arguments are explained well and weighed well, I will vote for it.

Defense is not sticky. If it matters, you need to extend and implicate it in summary and final. Frontline in second rebuttal, dropped arguments in rebuttal are considered conceded.

Any bigotry means you're auto-dropped with the lowest speaks possible.

Evidence:

Cards need to be properly cut. Don't power tag your evidence, and don't spend more than 30 seconds to find a card. In general, you should already be sending docs before your speeches that already have the cut evidence in them.

Progressive Args:

I'm generally so/so on prog stuff but I'd really rather not judge a messy K/theory round.

parent judge. will probably default util, no spreading. clear weighing, signposting, enunciation = good speaks

Hey, I'm Iris! I'm a first-year at Harvard and I graduated from Seven Lakes in 2023, where I competed in Congress + Extemp + LD. It's been a minute since I did debate, so the safe bet is to treat me as your average flay judge. I'll rank well-developed + strategic analysis high and will generally reward for flipping. Not a big fan of flowery rhetoric or AGDs but keep it interesting. POing doesn't guarantee you a specific rank – depends if the rest of the round does well or not, but if you're good at it, go for it. Don't rehash. I love a good crystal and will reward risk-taking/out of the box analysis. Have fun and good luck!

pronouns: she/her/hers

email: madelyncook23@gmail.com & lakevilledocs@googlegroups.com (please add both to the email chain) -- if both teams are there before I am, feel free to start the email chain without me so we can get started when I get there

PLEASE title the email chain in a way that includes the round, flight (if applicable), both team codes, sides, and speaking order

Experience:

• PF Coach for Lakeville South & Lakeville North in Minnesota, 2019-Present
• Speech Coach for Lakeville South in Minnesota, 2022-Present
• Instructor for Potomac Debate Academy, 2021-Present
• University of Minnesota NPDA, 2019-2022
• Lakeville South High School (PF with a bit of speech and Congress), 2015-2019

I will generally vote for anything if there is a warrant, an impact, and solid comparative weighing, and as long as your evidence isn't horribly cut/fake. Every argument you want on my ballot needs to be in summary and final focus, and I will walk you through exactly how I made my decision after the round is over. I’ve noticed that while I can/will keep up with speed and evaluate technical debates, my favorite rounds are usually those that slow down a bit and go into detail about a couple of important issues. Well warranted arguments with clear impact scenarios extended using a strategic collapse are a lot better than blippy extensions. The best rounds in my opinion are the ones where summary extends one case argument with comparative weighing and whatever defense/offense on the opponent’s case is necessary.

General:

• I am generally happy to judge the debate you want to have.
• The only time you need a content warning is when the content in your case is objectively triggering and graphic. I think the way PF is moving toward requiring opt-out forms for things like “mentions of the war on drugs” or "feminism" is super unnecessary and trivializes the other issues that actually do require content warnings while silencing voices that are trying to discuss important issues.
• I will drop you with a 20 (or lowest speaks allowed by the tournament) for bigotry or being blatantly rude to your opponents. There’s no excuse for this. This applies to you no matter how “good at technical debate” you are.
• Speed is probably okay as long as you explain your arguments instead of just rattling off claims. For online rounds, slow down more than you would in person. Please do not sacrifice clarity for speed. Sending a doc is not an excuse to go fast beyond comprehension - I do not look at speech docs until after the round and only if absolutely necessary to check
• Silliness and cowardice are voting issues.

Evidence Issues:

• Evidence ethics in PF are atrocious. Cut cards are the only way to present evidence in my opinion. At the very least, read direct quotes.
• Evidence exchanges take way too long. Send full speech docs in the email chain before the speech begins. I want everyone sending everything in this email chain so that everyone can check the quality of evidence, and so that you don’t waste time requesting individual cards.
• Evidence should be sent in the form of a Word Doc/PDF/uneditable document with all the evidence you read in the debate.
• The only evidence that counts in the round is evidence you cite in your speech using the author’s last name and date. You cannot read an analytic in a speech then provide evidence for it later.
• Evidence comparison is super underutilized - I'd love to hear more of it.
• My threshold for voting on arguments that rely on paraphrased/power-tagged evidence is very high. I will always prefer to vote for teams with well cut, quality evidence.
• I don't know what this "sending rhetoric without the cards" nonsense is - the only reason you need to exchange evidence is to check the evidence. Your "rhetoric" should be exactly what's in the evidence anyway, but if it's not, I have no idea what the point is of sending the paraphrased "rhetoric" without the cards. Just send full docs with cut cards.
• You have to take prep time to "compile the doc" lol you don't just get to take a bunch of extra prep time to put together the rebuttal doc you're going to send.

Speech Preferences:

• Frontline in second rebuttal. Dropped arguments in second rebuttal are conceded in the round. You should cover everything on the argument(s) you plan on going for, including defense.
• Defense isn't sticky. Anything you want to matter in the round needs to be in summary and final focus.
• Collapse in summary. It is not a strategy to go for tons of blippy arguments hoping something will stick just to blow up one or two of those things in final focus. The purpose of the summary is to pick out the most important issues, and you must collapse to do that well.
• Weigh as soon as possible. Comparative weighing is essential for preventing judge intervention, and meta-weighing is cool too. I want to vote for teams that write my ballot for me in final focus, so try to do that the best you can.
• Speech organization is key. I literally want you to say what argument I should vote on and why.
• The way I give speaker points fluctuates depending on the division and the difficulty of the tournament, but I average about a 28 and rarely go below a 27 or above a 29. If you get a 30, it means you debated probably the best I saw that tournament if not for the past couple tournaments. I give speaker points based on strategic decisions rather than presentation.
• I generally enjoy and will vote on extinction impacts, but I'm not going to vote on an argument that doesn't have an internal link just because the impact is scary - I'm very much not a fan of war scenarios read by teams that are unable to defend a specific scenario/actor/conflict spiral.

Theory:

I’ve judged a lot of terrible theory debates, and I do not want to judge more theory debates. I generally find theory debates very boring. But if you decide to ignore that and do it anyway, please at least read this:

• Frivolous theory is bad. I generally believe that the only theory debates worth having are disclosure and paraphrasing, and even then, I really do not want to listen to a debate about what specific type of disclosure is best.
• I probably should tell you that I believe disclosure is good and paraphrasing is bad, but I will listen to answers to these shells and evaluate the round to the best of my ability. My threshold for paraphrasing good is VERY high.
• Even if you don’t know the "technical" way to answer theory, do your best to respond. I don't really care if you use theory jargon - just do your best.
• "Theory is bad" or "theory doesn't belong in PF" are not arguments I'm very sympathetic to.
• I will say that despite all the above preferences/thoughts on theory, I really dislike when teams read theory as an easy path to ballot to basically "gotcha" teams that have probably never heard of disclosure or had a theory debate before. I honestly think it's the laziest strategy to use in those rounds, and your speaker points will reflect that. I have given and will continue to give low point wins for this if it is obvious to me that this is what you're trying to do.

Kritiks:

I have a high threshold for critical arguments in PF because I just don’t think the speech times are long enough for them to be good, but there are a few things that will make me feel better about voting on these arguments.

• I often find myself feeling a little out of my depth in K rounds, partly because I am not super well versed on most K lit but also because many teams seem to assume judges understand a lot more about their argument than they actually do. The issue I run into with many of these debates is when debaters extend tags rather than warrants which leaves the round feeling messy and difficult to evaluate. If you want to read a kritik in front of me, go ahead, but I'd do it at your own risk. If you do, definitely err on the side of over-explaining your arguments. I like to fully understand what the world of the kritik looks like before I vote for it.
• Any argument is going to be more compelling if you write it yourself. Probably don't just take something from the policy wiki without recutting any of the evidence or actually taking the time to fully understand the arguments.
• I think theory is the most boring way to answer a kritik. I'll always prefer for teams to engage with the kritik on some level.
• I will listen to anything, but I have a much better understanding and ability to evaluate a round that is topical.

Pet Peeves:

• Paraphrasing.
• I hate long evidence exchanges. I already ranted about this at the top of my paradigm because it is by far my biggest pet peeve, but here’s another reminder that it should not take you more than 30 seconds to send a piece of evidence. There’s also no reason to not just send full speech docs to prevent these evidence exchanges, so just do that.
• I don’t flow anything over time, and I’ll be annoyed and potentially drop speaker points if your speeches go more than 5 or so seconds over.
• Pre-flow before you get to the room. The round start time is the time the round starts – if you don’t have your pre-flow done by then, I do not care, and the debate will proceed without it.
• The phrase "small schools" is maybe my least favorite phrase commonly used in debate. I have judged so many debates where teams get stuck arguing about whether they're a small school, and it never has a point.
• The sentence "we'll weigh if time allows" - no you won't. You will weigh if you save yourself time to do it, because if you don't, you will probably lose.
• If you're going to ask clarification questions about the arguments made in speech, you need to either use cross or prep time for that.

Congress:

I competed in Congress a few times in high school, and I've judged/coached it a little since then. I dislike judging it because no one is really using it for its fullest potential, and almost every Congress round I've ever seen is just a bunch of constructive speeches in a row. But here are a few things that will make me happy in a Congress round:

• I'll rank you higher if you add something to the debate. I love rebuttal speeches, crystallization speeches, etc. You will not rank well if you are the fourth/fifth/sixth etc. speaker on a bill and still reading new substantive arguments without contextualizing anything else that has already happened. It's obviously fine to read new evidence/data, but that should only happen if it's for the purpose of refuting something that's been said by another speaker or answering an attack the opposition made against your side.
• I care much more about the content and strategy of your speeches than I do about your delivery.
• If you don't have a way to advance the debate beyond a new constructive speech that doesn't synthesize anything, I'd rather just move on to a new bill. It is much less important to me that you speak on every bill than it is that when you do speak you alter the debate on that bill.

If you have additional questions, ask before or after the round or you can email me at madelyncook23@gmail.com.

***My hearing was not too great during 2023 but it is doing much better now and I'm feeling much more confident on judging. Just a health FYI/PSA.***

For email chains and any questions, my email is jason.courville@kinkaid.org

Speaking Style (Speed, Quantity) - I like fast debate. Speed is fine as long as you are clear and loud. I will be vocal if you are not. A large quantity of quality arguments is great. Supplementing a large number of quality arguments with efficient grouping and cross-application is even better.

Theory - Theory arguments should be well impacted/warranted. I treat blippy/non-warranted/3 second theory arguments as non-arguments. My threshold for voting on a punishment voter ("reject the team") is higher than a "reject the argument, not the team" impacted argument. I'm open to a wide variety of argument types as long as you can justify them as theoretically valuable.

Topicality - My topicality threshold is established by the combination of answers.

Good aff defense + no aff offense + solid defense of reasonability = higher threshold/harder to win for the neg.

Good aff defense + no aff offense + neg wins competing interps = low threshold/easy to win for the neg.

Counterplans - counterplan types (from more acceptable to more illegit): advantage CPs, textually/functionally competitive PICs, agent CPs, textually but not functionally competitive PICs (ex. most word pics), plan contingent counterplans (consult, quid pro quo, delay)

Disadvantages - Impact calculus is important. Especially comparison of different impact filters (ex. probability outweighs magnitude) and contextual warrants based on the specific scenarios in question. Not just advantage vs disadvantage but also weighing different sub-components of the debate is helpful (uniqueness vs direction of the link, our link turn outweighs their link, etc).

Kritiks - My default framework is to assess whether the aff has affirmed the desirability of a topical plan. If you want to set up an alternative framework, I'm open to it as long as you win it on the line-by-line. I most often vote aff vs a kritik on a combination of case leverage + perm. It is wise to spend time specifically describing the world of the permutation in a way that resolves possible negative offense while identifying/impacting the perm's net benefit.

I most often vote neg for a kritik when the neg has done three things:
1. effectively neutralized the aff's ability to weigh their case,
2. there is clear offense against the perm, and
3. the neg has done a great job of doing specific link/alternative work as well as contextualizing the impact debate to the aff they are debating against.

Performance/Projects - I’ve voted both for and against no plan affs. When I’ve voted against no plan affs on framework, the neg team won that theory outweighed education impacts and the neg neutralized the offense for the aff’s interpretation.

Other Comments
Things that can be a big deal/great tiebreaker for resolving high clash/card war areas of the flow:
- subpointing your warrants/tiebreaking arguments when you are extending,
- weighing qualifications (if you make it an explicit issue),
- comparing warrants/data/methodology,
- establishing criteria I should use to evaluate evidence quality,
- weighing the relative value of different criteria/arguments for evidence quality (ex. recency vs preponderance/quantity of evidence)

If you do none of the above and your opponent does not either, I will be reading lots of evidence and the losing team is going to think that my decision involved a high level of intervention. They will be correct.

Congress Paradigms:

Your speech should be thoughtful and touch on one to three key issues related to the legislation. Your time should be well balanced between all points. If you are spending significantly less time on one point than on your others, cut it. You aren't spending enough time developing it if your other points are significantly longer.

Your delivery should be slow and deliberate. It should be a conversational, extemporaneous style. If you bring a laptop up to speak from, you will be docked points. You should be communicating and speaking to the chamber and judges, not speaking at them. You cannot accomplish this if you are reading from a laptop.

You should have one to three reliable pieces of evidence per point. I don't believe you need to cite everything in your speech, but you should be able to name the source if asked/challenged.

If you are not the sponsor/author for a piece of legislation, you need to incorporate some element of clash or engagement with earlier speakers. Do not come up and give a completely pre-written speech that doesn't engage with the debate that has already been established. This isn't mini-extemp. You need to be engaged with the debate. If there have been more than 3 cycles of debate on a piece of legislation or the debate is heavily one-sided, someone in the chamber needs to motion for previous question or motion to table to allow competitors to write speeches to allow for a more even debate I shouldn't hear the same speech over and over with nothing new being presented.

What can/should PO's do to earn high ranks? A PO can earn high ranks by running an efficient and error-free chamber. One of the biggest issues I find with POs is their lack of active engagement with the chamber. It is the PO's job to keep the chamber running as quickly and efficiently as possible. If debate is getting repetitive, suggest motions. If there seems to be a confusion about procedure, don't wait for the chamber to figure it out. Suggest motions and keep the chamber moving. Have a strong knowledge/practice with your gaveling or time-signal procedures and precedence tracking. Explain them clearly and then stick to them.

I'm Tyler Crivella, current senior and President of Seven Lakes High School's Speech and Debate Team. I have competed in every event TFA offers except POI and DUO. Slay all day.

Loud sounds, eating, chewing gum, sniffling, gaveling, and other sounds will down you. I have hearing disabilities and your articulation and reasonable (but not overbearing) projection are crucial to my participation. If I put headphones on, do not adjust to speak louder, it means you are too loud and you should likely adjust.

Extemp: I have a modern view on how extemp should be run but still a pretty basic rubric in most rounds. For higher level extemp, I prefer speeches to be both comedic and dramatic: doing both in a speech is a lot more skillful than just one. No layered analysis unless you really, really think it'll work. Priorities are as follows:
1. Answering the Question
2. Quality of the Points
3. Quality of Analysis (Including background)
4. Stucture and Fluency
5. Presentation
6. Number and Quality of Sources

Debate: Consider me as flay. I'm not here for spreading and will just stop flowing. Talk to me before round if you want me to say clear or something of that matter. That being said: I have competed in PF, LD, WSD, and UIL CX. I evaluate the round based on only arguments in the round. Your evidence means nothing to me without methodology or application.

Congress: If you PO, do not expect a free break. In a round of great speakers, you will be ranked under them even with perfect PO'ing. Do not gavel as PO or I will straight up kick you out of the room. POs should run the room: asking for splits if needed, moving things along rather than a representative. I prefer two point speeches but I can ride with one argument speeches too. Refutation is a must if you are not giving the first three speeches and even those one should have some. Questioning is not a screaming match. More speeches ≠ better speaker. The "PO" and "two speech" meta is bad. I would rather the round hit four bills with good, short, and dense debate than a prolonged, dead round after twelve speeches on each bill. AGDs, fluency, stance, and general speech skills do actually matter; it's not just the flow. Amendments are a dead medium that should make a resurgence.

Speech: Don't adapt your speech for me unless it's a concern of volume/sounds, in which case that is existential to your placement. I will do time signals and if I mess them up, you will not receive any retribution or penalty. I suggest you ask me about how time signals will be given and about how the structure of the round will go if you aren't sure. Be a good spectator; no phones and no leaving during speeches.

Would like to see how you justify your points and counter your opponent's arguments. The emphasis is on debating skills and logical reasoning. Try to have a clear narrative and provide references / evidences in your speech, wherever required. Please do Not spread.

Have fun! :-)

i regularly compete in WSD, FX, OO, and DI

kinda familiar with judging PF and LD (i'm a lay judge though please speak at an understandable speed)

fake it till you win

I am a high school senior in my 4th year of PF.

I look for clarity of argument, always. As such, I will vote based on clarity of link into impact first, and then off of magnitude. If you can't draw me a straight line from beginning to end about your argument, then don't expect me to vote for you.

Additionally, extend for me. Anything not extended in summary and FF will not be weighed in my decision for you. No new arguments, and if it boils down to it, I will compare your constructive and rebuttal, nothing else.

The point of PF, at least in my rounds is to find a way for me to vote for you, I will always weigh a stronger defense of your case over attacking your opponents case because at the end of the day, you're showing me why your side is better, not why your opponent's side is worse.

I am a high school senior in my 4th year of PF.

I look for clarity of argument, always. As such, I will vote based on clarity of link into impact first, and then off of magnitude. If you can't draw me a straight line from beginning to end about your argument, then don't expect me to vote for you.

Additionally, extend for me. Anything not extended in summary and FF will not be weighed in my decision for you. No new arguments, and if it boils down to it, I will compare your constructive and rebuttal, nothing else.

The point of PF, at least in my rounds is to find a way for me to vote for you, I will always weigh a stronger defense of your case over attacking your opponents case because at the end of the day, you're showing me why your side is better, not why your opponent's side is worse.

Email: salikfaisal10@gmail.com

Experience/Background:

I primarily competed in Extemporaneous Speaking and Congressional Debate in High School. I've made it to TFA State twice and was an alternate to NSDA Nationals once in Domestic/US Extemporaneous Speaking from the Houston area.

Extemp/Speech:

I value analysis more heavily than the presentation, although there is a place for both. Don't try to force in a point or try to draw a connection that doesn't make sense just for the sake of adding another source or sounding more credible; I will notice this. Please don't fabricate sources; if I find out, this is a sure way to get you downed. I won't micro analyze every source you have, but I will look into it if I feel the need to do so. Quality of analysis always wins out in the end. Don't sound robotic in your speech and try to maintain a natural conversational style of speaking. It's fine if you're not the prettiest and most polished speaker, but make sure to communicate your analysis coherently and I can always appreciate a nice joke.

Congress:

Clever intros and pretty speaking are great, but your goal is to explain why to pass/fail legislation. I'm big on studies/analytics on the impact of legislation. I like clash and love great questioning; just make sure to be civil. POs should make the round flow smoothly and orderly, understand the process well, and show fairness and integrity in selecting speakers.

Debate:

I have some experience competing in Public Forum and have judged it plenty of times, so I know the event fairly well. I'm a fan of clash and questioning; just make sure to be civil. Good evidence and warrants are the gold standard for me. I like real-world examples and love statistics. In order to access your impacts, you must have a very good link. Wasting time and energy on hyperbolic impacts like extinction without solid links won't help you. In your final focus/ final speech, be very clear with your voters and weigh. If I have access to your case, I'm fine with spreading during constructive speeches. Slow down your pace in later speeches. If I can't understand what you're saying, I can't make a fair decision. I'm not a fan of K's, picks, theories, and other progressive techniques. If you're doing PF or WSD, stay as far as you can from this. If you decide to use these in LD or CX, you must be very good in your communication and position.

PARADIGM SHORT

1. Be nice and respectful. If you are highly offensive or disrespectful, I reserve the right to vote you down.

2. Speed is fine, but be clear and slow down in rebuttals. If you go top speed in rebuttals, I will miss arguments.

3. I prefer interesting and creative arguments. I will usually prefer truth over tech and decide on the most cohesive weighed argument. If I don't clearly understand, I don't vote. Tell me how to vote please.

4. If you do what makes you comfortable and throw a voter on it, you'll be fine.

MORE STUFF

I will vote on anything that is justified as a ballot winning position.

My flow is poor. The faster you go the more arguments I will miss. I am truth over tech. I will most likely not vote for a technical interaction that hasn't been heavily explained in the round. If you are grossly misrepresenting technical arguments to another debater, I reserve the right to not vote on those arguments.

I subconsciously presume towards unique arguments/funny, nice, and/or like-able people. This doesn't mean you will win, but if the round becomes unadjudicatable more often than not I'll decide your way.

I don't believe in speaker points. I will either give you the max (99.99999999999% of rounds) or you will get the minimum (reserved for doing something abhorent)

If you are oppressive, I reserve the right to not vote for you.

Please keep me entertained(two invested debaters is enough). I have severe ADHD.

Please make jokes. I find terrible dad humor jokes that fall flat to be the funniest.

email: jennagoodrich765@gmail.com

please add me to the email chain

I debated policy at the University of Houston. I have a full time non-debate job and have not kept up with this year's college topic so please make sure you are explaining your arguments

I do not have strong preferences for any type of argument as long as you give me a good reason why you should get my ballot. I am far more likely to be persuaded when you clash over warrants rather than card names. Extensions should explain the claim + warrant + impact!

Case debate:

- I like case debate.

- I think plan-specific internal links are very often shoddy. Nevertheless, debaters often ignore this and focus their attention on the impacts / internal links to the impacts. For instance, affs should be able to defend how their plan gets them to the same econ decline impacts read year over year, and negs should look to exploit the ambiguities in the aff's explanation.

Topicality/FW:

- You should probably be going for T. I think topicality has fallen out of favor, such that most policy affs aren't even topical anymore. I think T is often a very smart argument if you can execute on it.

- T/FW is about competing visions of debate. It's not enough to be right about whether the other team violates your interp, you have to tell me why your interp makes debate better. I know this is basic, but I feel like a lot of the time T debates can get lost in the weeds. The big picture is important.

Disads:

- Just like affs, I think the internal links in most disads are pretty bad. This should be a point of contestation.

- Disad debates can devolve into contextless card dumps. I am more persuaded by more direct clash.

Counterplans:

- I won't judge kick for you if there's offense on the CP. Maybe you can persuade me to, but I think that it should be a strategic choice whether or not the take the CP into the 2nr.

- I think aff teams don't read theory enough against the counterplan. However, I struggle to find a situation where I would drop the team as opposed to the argument. I won't vote on condo bad.

- The best counterplans come from the aff's own solvency advocate. This is usually an easy way to win the round on top of being a big flex.

Kritiks:

- I'm not as familiar with K debate but I'm not opposed to them. If you want me to vote on the alt, you have to explain to me what exactly that means for the round/world.

- Links are very important. Even independent of the alt, they can often be sufficient to win the round as a case turn. However, it is crucial that they are contextualized to what the aff actually does. Bad links are often shielded by the perm, while good links prove its inefficacy.

Theory:

-I won't vote on theory unless I think it's important for the round.

-Condo bad isn’t a real argument unless completely dropped.

riley.quinn.hardwick@gmail.com

DEBATE JUDGING PHILOSOPHY:

Each format has its own unique attributes, and you should always respect those attributes unless you explicitly read theory which compels me to respect your shirking of those attributes. I am willing to vote on unorthodoxy, but I have to have an important reason to vote on that unorthodoxy.

I am a former CX debater and a tab judge. CX is the format I'm most familiar with, but I have debated and judged virtually every format. When I say I am a tab judge, I don't mean to communicate that I won't evaluate claims based on my own knowledge and experience. If your case relies on my acceptance of your argument that the sky is red, you aren't going to win. I am a tab judge in the sense that you should not assume any one paradigm from me.

My philosophy is that each round has its own rules and must be evaluated depending on what emerges in-round. You should always tell me what is the focus of the round and why. Tell me what framework is most important, tell me what my role is, tell me what the role of my ballot is, tell me which voting issues are the most critical. Otherwise, I will make those decisions based on my own experiences and values.

It is not my job to automatically recognize an argument you are making or extend an argument on your behalf. I'm well-versed in a lot of the theory that might come up. But I prefer being exposed to new, niche, creative approaches and ideas. The caveat to that preference is I'm not well-versed in ideas I haven't yet been exposed to. Please loop me in.

Both traditional and progressive arguments are fine as long as you do them well. Don't ask me whether I prefer one argument over another, or whether I prefer one set of values over another. Maybe I do, maybe I don't. That's your argument to make. Context and evidence is everything, and it is very likely that I will prefer a sensible and empirically-backed argument over a sensible analytic. What I will say is that some arguments are extremely difficult (effectively impossible) to prove to me. For example, capitalism is a good or sustainable economic system, immigration causes overpopulation, the world is overpopulated, racism isn't alive and well, etc. I've seen ideas like those circulating in the debate space for a while. I don't know if debaters actually believe ideas like those, or if those are desperate grabs at a win, but don't run them on me. I would rather you collapse on ideas you are winning and prove to me why those are paramount voting issues than throw bigoted spaghetti at the wall and hope that breadth impresses me. It won't.

HOW TO WIN MY BALLOT:

You frame the round and my flow determines the W. In order to win my ballot, you must 1.) provide a framing mechanism or specify which framing mechanism should be preferred and why 2.) win offense to that framing mechanism and prove that your advocacy has the strongest link to that framework and 3.) provide an impact calculus.

I always use gateway issues (T, theory, framing) to help frame my decision. If those issues don't come up, or their clash lacks depth, I consider how well each team has met their burden and allow that to frame my decision. Notice that I say this is how I frame my decision. This alone will not win you my ballot. I vote holistically. You might win one important issue and lose every other issue on the flow, resulting in an overall loss.

Be considerate about how you construct your case, how you write analytics, and how you organize your speeches. I am a bit of a gamesplayer in that I track how the flow of your speech mirrors your opponent's flow. Spending the bulk of a constructive speech reading your evidence into the round without reading offense on your opponents' case or reading defensive arguments is poor strategy. Collapses should be intentional, not an accident resulting from mass concession.

Your advocacy suite should be strategically organized and directly communicated so as to make the decision abundantly clear for me. I want clear extensions, roadmapping, and signposting. If you are going to roadmap, give me a detailed roadmap of the distinct arguments you plan to cover in your speech. Do not tell me the order will be 'aff and then neg', or something to that effect. Those are literally the only two sides we will be discussing in any debate round. It's a given that you will cover one or the other at some point in the round.

INTERP EVENTS:

Formatting is important. Most speeches will have a brief introduction, a slate (contextualizing the piece, stating the theme, listing the title[s] and author[s] of the source material[s], and reiterating the central theme of the piece), complete the exposition, rise into the climax, and then fall into the resolution.

Physical presence is also important. You should have a roadmap, which means you should also follow the speaker's triangle. You should incorporate movement into your piece wherever possible or appropriate. Gesticulate generously and intentionally. Use your place in the room, your posture, your movements and gestures, facial expressions, and your binder to block different elements of your piece or characterize different characters. Utilize eye contact considerately as well.

Vocal performance is another consideration. Utilize vocal inflection, pacing, clarity, enunciation, accents (where appropriate), and volume to discern between different characters and different scenes. The intentional application of these elements can be used to juxtapose different elements, emphasize important ideas, and discern between different characters.

Physically move from point to point in accordance with the speaker's triangle. Use gestures to illustrate or emphasize points

The plot of your piece should be clear and easy to map. Whether you are utilizing one source or multiple sources, your piece should be paced and organized with lots of consideration. You should fully embody each character depicted, and there should be a clear distinction between each characters, each scene, each action, and each section in your piece.

SPEECH EVENTS:

Formatting is important. Most speeches will have a brief introduction, a roadmap, two to three supporting arguments, a restatement of the roadmap, and a conclusion. Stick closely to this organization and signpost generously throughout your speech. Use verbal transitions and the speaker's triangle to help map your speech.

Physical presence is also important. You should have a roadmap, which means you should also follow the speaker's triangle. You should incorporate movement into your piece wherever possible or appropriate. Gesticulate generously and intentionally throughout your piece. Use your place in the room, your posture, your movements and gestures, facial expressions, and other elements to make your piece moving, memorable, and engaging. Utilize eye contact as well. Look at your judges and your audience-don't look through us.

Vocal performance is another consideration. Except on rare occasions when you may exercise a characterization, you should maintain even pacing, appropriate projection, varied inflection, vocal clarity, and a confident, conversational style. Avoid coming off as meek, stilted, confused, monotonous, etc.

For original oratory, make sure you clearly define your personal connection to the content in your introduction and conclusion.

For informative oratory, make sure your visual aids are simple, straightforward, easy to read, easy to decipher, and actually enhance your speech. Any attempts at humor are always a plus.

For any speech event, ensure that you are citing a healthy amount of sources in your speech. I like a balance between qualitative and quantitative evidence in the speeches I judge.

Content and presentation are equally important to me. I prefer three point speeches, but I will always prefer a holistically superior two-point speech to a superficial and sloppy three-point speech. The content should have depth and be logically organized.

New assistant debate coach this year--still learning the ropes of speech and debate in general and the judging for both.

I am primarily an AP English 3 teacher, and that informs my judging. Make your argument as if I am entirely unfamiliar with the topic.

I have only judged LD, PF and several speech formats at this time and am still learning the other debate types.

In judging, I look for:

-Logical consistency in your argument: your framework should carry through your arguments.

-LD - value/criterion/framework. I like to see the connections of how the framework influences your cases and argumentation.

-PF - I'm always looking for argumentation and clash.

-I value the quality of the argumentation over attempts to win points on technicalities.

-Speak at a normal conversational pace. Do not spread or rush your speaking--if I can't follow what you're saying, I can't fairly evaluate your argument, and this will work against you in terms of both speaker points and the overall quality of your argument.

You may find feedback from me in your online ballot after your rounds. As a general rule, I do not do orals.

Hi! My name is Aleena Joseph and I am a sophomore at Texas A&M University. In high school, I was an avid speech and debate competitor, particularly in Original Oratory, Informative Speaking, Public Forum, Dramatic Interpretation, and Humorous Interpretation. I was strongest in Original Oratory and Informative Speaking as a 2-time state qualifier for both, and a national tournament qualifier and attendee for Oratory. I competed heavily in Public Forum in my sophomore year and judged novice rounds in my senior year. My experience levels would match a flay judge, so I highly recommend articulating your arguments thoroughly. The easier it is for me to understand your arguments, the better your speaker points will likely be. I also critique your speaking heavily, so try your best to speak clearly with articulation and tone.

Basic Things I Appreciate In a Round (Debate)

- Good articulation and overall outstanding speaking

- Simple Termed Arguments

- Overall respect for each other. I do NOT tolerate mansplaining or any other disrespect in the round.

- WEIGHING IS SO IMPORTANT. I need to be convinced that your argument is the best for society as a whole.

- Have fun! I love when I see competitors having fun and enjoying their rounds.

- I likely will not disclose, but you can ask.

How I Judge Speech --

• Strong arguments with creative examples to follow
• Expressions and inflection get you major points with me!

Good luck! I’m super excited to judge your round!

If you have questions after the round, feel free to email me at aleenajoseph597@tamu.edu! Thanks!

I'm parent judge with no debate experience. Speak in a normal speed and tone. Please do not spread. At the end of the round I will vote for whichever side presents their arguments in a more persuasive and logical way.

Overall: I expect respectful debates, non-negotiable. Background is in CD/Extemp. Have judged everything but CX.

CD: If you are not the author/sponsor, I expect clash from every speaker. If you are author/sponsor, focus on explaining the bill. You don't have to speak on every bill, but you do have to actively participate in every topic (questioning, motions, etc). If you have spoken on aff, I expect you to question the neg and vice versa. Logic is weighed above presentation-- AKA having unique strong arguments is more important than presentation to me when considering who to break. But if you want the 1 in finals, you need both. Add to the debate, don't waste time rehashing arguments. PO: I expect efficiency and respect of fellow chamber members.

LD: don't spread. If I can't understand you, it is not going to be on my flow and will not be evaluated.

PF: definitely don't spread. I expect clear voters. Anything not extended will be dropped from my flow.

Extemp: Speech presentation and logic of arguments will be equally evaluated. Will fact-check.

I've done congressional debate for the past three years, I'm extremely experienced in the event and have pretty much competed at every level and tournament you can think of. I have a ton of experience in the debate space. Just remember to be kind and respectful.

Congress

Speech structure:
Honestly whatever you think fits the round the best. As long as it's organized in some way that is understandable to me idrc.

Argumentation:
Know what ur talking about. I will be flowing. I do check sources (don't cap I can usually tell)

Speaking:
Everyone speaks differently. As long as I can hear you and fluency is not an issue, you get the checkmark from me. Be confident, professional, and don't be afraid to show a little personality!

^^^ I will always rank the best speaker and the person I thought did the best from an argumentative perspective. Sometimes those are the same people, sometimes they aren't.

For POs: You start at my three and can only move up to my 2. You can move up or down based on how I think you are running the round. If you make too many mistakes I'm not opposed to giving you 9s. POing is a great and strategic way to break, but make sure you are good at it pls, otherwise it def hurts the round as a whole and can impact others' abilities to give x number of speeches.

PF/LD

Consider me a lay judge.

Speech

Be clear, speaking is more important here, even in Extemp. I'm forgiving to fluency breaks in extemp, less so in prepared events.

Rex Kidd

Add me to the email chain - rexwkidd@outlook.com

University of Houston Debate 2025

Online Debate

Speed - I am fine with spreading through the body of cards, but if you want something flowed (taglines, authors, analytics, etc.) you need to slow down, -75%-60% of top speed allowing me pen time to keep up with the debate.

Microphone quality- if I am unable to understand you due to microphone quality, I will give multiple “clear” warnings, but if the issue isnt resolved I simply will stop flowing.

I welcome arguments in all their forms. I mean this quite literally. Denounce modernity or impact turn innovation - within the parameters of debate, I don't care. My only request: whatever form yours may take, please be considerate and take the time to outline for me the claim of the argument, the warrants to support it, and the impacts of its significance. Even better, organize these arguments so the ideas are unambiguously clear; and at the end of the debate tell me in no uncertain terms why you win and why they lose. At the end of the day, I think debate is an enjoyable game with lasting subjective consequences. What these consequences are, and the extent to which they can become desirable or malignant, is open to interpretation. I believe this responsibility to interpret ultimately resides with the debaters, not the judge. I won't superimpose. I'll try my best to simply evaluate. Have fun!

Debate should be a welcoming and open space to all who would try to participate. If you are a debater with accessibility (or other) concerns please feel free to reach out to me ahead of the round and I will work with you to make the space as hospitable as possible. Have a fundamental respect for the other team and the activity. Insulting either or both, or making a debater feel uncomfortable, is not acceptable.

In general, I weigh probability of impact higher than severity of impact. For example, if there is a .01% probability of an extinction level event, but a 50% probability of a collapse of the US economy, I would be more likely to vote on the side which won't cause the collapse of the economy.

Speaking faster than normal is ok, as long as you speak clearly and enunciate. If I put down my pen, I can’t understand you and you need to slow down and/or speak more clearly.

Stand up when presenting.

If you are going to share documents, use tabroom. 

Experience heavily concentrated from high school competition and coaching in IEs. However, I've judged debate for about 2 years so I'm aware of most of the nuances of the craft. I have a lot of respect for you all who do it- and respect for those of you who really know the ins and outs and the tech-y stuff (that phrase in of itself should be indicative of my in depth debate knowledge).

I'm a Novice college policy debater, so treat me as a semi-lay judge. I LOVE K debate (red flag), and honestly could care less for T debate, why lie. I have been told I'm a "progressive" LD judge. I approach debate from my background and knowledge of policy debate.

I view debate as above all else, an educational and safe space for all to learn and to express their ideas. With that said, be respectful of your fellow debaters, and if anything in the round makes you uncomfortable- let me know. Speech and Debate is a powerful forum for me to hear your voice, your story and see your personality and narrative. Those aspects are paramount to me as a judge.

Err on the slower side with speed, and don't be messy with your spreading. My background is in speech so you gotta earn your speaks with me- especially if you wanna go fast. Be charismatic in your speaking and present clear and well-articulated arguments, don’t use too much debate jargon or run uber-complex theory. Convince me why I should vote for you.

I'm a flay judge leaning more towards flow. You can spread but please for the love of god and all things holy, remain coherent please, if I can't hear what you are saying I cannot evaluate it. K's are fine but i don't evaluate theory. Start email chains for every round and give all evidence and rhetoric before your speech. I don't want google docs - only pdf and word docs. I won't evaluate evidence sent to me as a part of my decision making unless you tell me to. Smart weighing, good arguments, and evidence ethics are your path to the ballot. I think grand cross is dumb but we gotta do it.

I qualled for TFA, TOC, and Nationals in PF. Have fun and live 365.

lawal.a.hanif@gmail.com

Email chain/questions: tuyendebate@gmail.com

Additionally, please add the following emails depending on your event:

PF: sevenlakespf@googlegroups.com

LD: sevenlakesld@googlegroups.com

CX: sevenlakescx@googlegroups.com

Pfers: Round should start at start time, that means first word should be spoken at start time. I will dock your speaks by .2 for every minute past start time that the first constructive has not been sent.

__________________________________________________

Background/Important info:

University of Houston (Policy debate '21 -'23), BCHS (LD ‘19-‘21), debate coach at Seven Lakes HS (‘23-Current)

Political science major with a focus in international relations/political theory and a philosophy minor.

***I will not vote on anything that happened outside of round - If you are about to debate someone that makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable please sort this out with TAB before round rather than making it an in-round voting issue. Commodification of racism, sexism, etc. any form of discrimination or violence for the ballot is bad. I do not want to see Twitter screenshots about what X debater said.

I apologize in advance for the horrific typos that may be in your ballot. I tend to quickly jot my thoughts down as to not keep tab/debaters waiting too long. I usually fix ballots after rounds, but the deeper we get into elims the less time I have. My ballot is usually just my oral rfd, but if you have any questions just send me an email.

_________________________________________________

GENERAL (for all debates):

Policy/Cap > Security/Set Col/Phil > Identity Ks > Tricks/LD Theory

^^^ Based on my level of experience with specific args - For the most part, you can run what you want and I will vote on anything, but your burden of explanation increases the further you move down the list above. That being said I would suggest that you do not over adapt. You are more likely to win running an argument you’re good at and know well.

Tech > truth in most cases - I think my role as a judge is to be an impartial arbiter and evaluate the debate skills of the debaters. For the most part, a dropped argument is a true argument. However, when arguments are equally contested, implicit biases and prior knowledge will inevitably lower the burden of proof for arguments that are more true.

I think almost everything is debatable, will vote on almost anything with a warrant and impact

Will evaluate the round exactly how you tell me to - The more weighing you do and the more judge instruction you give the less likely I’ll have to intervene to make a decision. If you do neither of these things do not be upset when I have to arbitrarily decide how to evaluate the round.

I will vote off the flow - I don't care how good your evidence is if you don't debate it well. I only flow the things said in your speech, but I will still follow along on the doc to check for clipping. (Horrendous clipping is an auto L)

Time yourself

-------

Specific Args:

My paradigm for LD, CX, PF are combined below. Read what applies and skip what doesn’t. If it is not here, assume I have no specific thoughts about it and that it is up for you to debate.

K --- I have and will vote on any K that is debated well, HOWEVER:

I prefer Ks that critique structures over identity Ks. Two reasons:

1. I am often unsure of what the alt to these Ks do. I have no idea what death drive, black ontology, etc means as an alt, however, I have voted on all of them before. I am just less familiar with these literature bases and am better for Ks like cap and security.

2. I think that the way some debaters run K args introduces new violence into the round that wasn't previously there. This makes me sad because I think K lit is interesting and great, but it’s implementation in debate has pushed me towards policy args. An articulation that is just an ad hominem is a losing one.

Ks on the AFF: All of the reasons above make me quite receptive to FW against K AFFs. Specifically, if you read a K AFF but cannot provide a reason for why your arguments should be negated then I am more likely to be convinced by FW.

Ks on the NEG: I like clash rounds and I am much more likely to vote for a K on the neg than a K on the AFF. Specifically if you run Ks like cap like a cp+da or security like a case turn. Ks which are able to interact with the aff on the fiat-consequences level have a much higher chance of getting my ballot than Ks that garner offensive from proximate violence impacts.

CP --- I default to judge kick if there’s no offense on the CP. Creative and niche CPs that actually solve are cool.

DA —- I'll evaluate them in the order of Impact > Link > Uniqueness when no other offense is present. I tend to default to evaluating the round like a policy maker. I can vote on risk of a link if it is contextualized to weighing, but I think it’s also possible to zero the link in rare instances.

Theory—- My threshold for voting on theory is relatively higher than for other args.

The greater the time constraints in the debate event the more I err towards the team defending against theory. In CX, theory is fine since there is enough time to develop arguments and thus I tend to view theory in CX as a legit strategic tool. In PF theory makes me want to cry.

Disclosure: I do not want to see your laptop screen after the speech. If you have screenshots/evidence of non disclosure you should put it in the doc. Things said/shown to me during the speeches are the only things I will evaluate.

------

Extra notes for specific events:

PF ---

Your best bet with me for PF is to run traditional or policy arguments.

If you send all the cards you are going to read before your speech and don't paraphrase I will boost your speaks and give you at least a 28.

You must start the prep timer if you want to ask a question outside of CX period.

I will judge the round like a policy maker under and offense defense paradigm unless you tell me otherwise. If there is no offense in the final focus you will probably lose.

Weighing - I notice that in most PF rounds, weighing doesn’t end up playing a large part in my decision making process despite the fact that the impact is the first place I look to when evaluating the round. This is because PFers tend to weigh in a vacuum- ie they do not tell me why, for example, I should prefer time frame over magnitude. They also do not contextualize the weighing to the amount of the impact that is actually accessed.

K:You can run it if you think you can explain it to me in 4 minutes but that is doubtful.

Defense is not sticky: I will only evaluate things that get extended throughout the debate all the way into the last speech.

LD ---

I ran phil and did mostly traditional LD in high school because my program was small, but I have done policy debate in college and have been judging on the circuit long enough for you to treat me like a regular tech judge. The only thing my high school experience affects is my familiarity with LD theory and tricks. - I will judge these rounds based on my knowledge of theory in policy.

I judge phil like an LDer and everything else like a policy debater. As in, I tend to switch back and forth between LD being about truth testing vs competing worlds depending on the content of the round. In a policy v phil round you should explicitly tell me how you want me to evaluate the round.

Phil: yes <3 love it but only when it is substantial. I think debates like Kant v Util are fun. I have a pretty good background for all the very basic and generic phils (Kant, Hobbes, any other enlightenment philosopher, etc.)

Theory/Tricks: I might be unfamiliar with some args you make. This means my capabilities to flow your 32 point analytical 1NC shell decreases.

----

Spreading: I don’t care how fast you go if you're clear, but if I don't hear you it's your fault. I will say clear if I cannot understand you.

Speaks --- I'll start at 28 and move up or down from there.

Speaks + : make good strategic decisions, are funny, creative, show good understanding of the topic/args, are efficient, organized. I reward the most speaks to debaters who are kind and make debate an enjoyable and welcoming space

Speaks - : Make personal attacks, are unorganized, don’t clash, waste time/steal prep

Attorney, and old CX and LD competitor and judge.

1. Mostly a tabula rasa judge (“clean slate”) which means I don’t try and insert my opinions and beliefs into the round. If the debater says “the moon is green” then I must believe that unless the opponent says otherwise. On the other hand, if you are running a low probability argument (like Nuc War), I'm not going to be easily convince of it.

2. Stock judge...I want to hear the stock issues debated...framework in LD, Topicality, Inherency, Solvency and Significance in CX.

3. I believe that this is a full body/mind exercise. In that vein, I expect for everyone to stand when speaking, judiciously use facial and hand gestures, as well as tone of voice, display proper etiquette (“is opponent ready?) and refrain from rude behavior.

4. Cross examination is a critical component of debate. In my opinion, perhaps the MOST critical, as it truly reflects the knowledge, thinking and skills of the two debaters. Students should spend almost as much time preparing for Cross as they do their constructive speeches. I expect a spirited cross.

5. As to LD, I don’t believe that values debate can be completely divorced from the real-world aspects of their decisions.

6. Spreading: Speed, tone and modulation of voice are all aspects of the art of persuasion. Vomiting out arguments in an unending, unbroken, and unmodulated stream of verbiage does NOT appeal to me.

Conflicts: University of Houston

Add to email chain: patrickleeqw@gmail.com

Hello debate community members. I debated for 4 years at Katy Taylor HS and 1 year at UT-Austin on the M4A topic. I welcome arguments in all their forms. I mean this quite literally. Denounce modernity or impact turn innovation - within the parameters of debate, I don't care. My only request: whatever form yours may take, please be considerate and take the time to outline for me the claim of the argument, the warrants to support it, and the impacts of its significance. Even better, organize these arguments so the ideas are unambiguously clear; and at the end of the debate tell me in no uncertain terms why you win and why they lose.

K debate: If the terms of your argument use jargon from the bowels of academia, and if said terms are not explained with the intention of forwarding understandability, then, in the spirit of competitive agonism, I suggest using clearer and shorter words, for there are plenty of them that are certain to capture the essence of your claims. But in the case that it is of your opinion that there simply exist no other adequate terms and only your words sufficiently capture the monumental complexity of your theorization, that is perfectly fine too - but know that your arguments must now live up the task of explaining that complexity, adequately, as a pre-requisite to evaluation.

At the end of the day, I think debate is an enjoyable game with lasting subjective consequences. What these consequences are, and the extent to which they can become desirable or malignant, is open to interpretation. I believe this responsibility to interpret ultimately resides with the debaters, not the judge. I won't superimpose. I'll try my best to simply evaluate. Have fun!

my email is ethanhwliu@utexas.edu

debated for Seven Lakes for 4 years

tech over truth

send docs before speeches if fast

feel free to call TKOs if you think its applicable

I am a parent lay judge. I prefer for deeper analysis into arguments, instead of repeating the same basic reasoning over and over throughout a round. I also don't carry any biases within the round over which arguments you run, but there's also a limit to how far you can push the logic of an argument. Going slow so I can follow is also extremely important in the round, and it's probably one of the main things I'm looking for. Comparison of arguments is good, and don't use any jargon, I'm not going to understand it. Crossfires are also something that I pay attention to, so make sure to respond to questions immediately, rather than sit there for a few seconds pondering the answer. Speaker points are also updated throughout the duration of the round, and continuing to speak well with good gestures and posture will also be important.

I am a traditional judge and go by the flow. I would like to see the consistency through the entire flow during debate rounds.

Please speak clearly, and do not rush! You'd rather get your point through me, not just throw out your points at me and your opponent(s).

Be polite during cross. Personally I read news everyday and I do research the debate topic for each month before I judge. I respect your opinions on each topic, your job is to explain your arguments logically and convince me!

Make sure your evidences are correct and up to date . I care both technics and truths.

Please track your time accurately. I will not track time for you during debate rounds, but I do pay attention to the time you would spend. If you spend more time as what you have said you would take, it is a cheating to me.

You are not required to send me the case doc. But if you prefer to do so,you can send it to my email: liugr@hotmail.com. I will use it during your case construction phase.

Email: diegoalopez83@gmail.com

Hey Howdy Hey! I’m Diego and I’m a policy debater at the University of Houston (Go Coogs!). This is my first year in debate and I’m super excited to be judging.

Some specifics when it comes to the round itself:

You can spread if you’d like, just keep in mind that for me clarity is more important than speed. If I can’t understand what you’re saying it’s obviously harder for me to flow the round.

Honestly, just write my ballot for me by telling me a coherent story (I’m a huge fan of organized and well-structured arguments). Totally give me a through explanation of your own arguments. However, don’t solely rely on your own evidence! I like judging debates with a lot of clash so be sure to interact with and respond to what the other team has said in the round.

Impact arguments are the ones that stand out the most to me. It would be great if you could clearly explain to me why your world is better than the opposing team’s world.

Finally, please be respectful to the other team. At the end of the day, debate is an extracurricular activity and I feel like we should all be having a good time with it. Don’t stress out too much and remember to have fun.

P.S. If you’ve actually taken the time to read this, tell me what your favorite Taylor Swift song/album is before the round starts

WAZZZAAAAAAAPPPPPPPP!

I'm John Lutterman, a senior PF debater at Seven Lakes High School.

Please add me to the email chain

johntlutterman26@gmail.com

For PF

Tech>>>truth

I'll evaluate stuff that's really stretching the truth, just please don't read something that's very blasphemously false like a card that states "The moon is a projection funded by Big Cheese Whiz" in a serious context. I'll evaluate it, but come on.........

My philosophy is that weighing works if the link works. If a contention's link doesn't work, how can it outweigh if the impact scenario won't happen?

In other words, I'd vote for a team with a clean link chain over a team that has a messy link chain but has conceded weighing.

I'll use comparative weighing to break clash, and meta-weighing is a w

(Please weigh comparatively PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE)

My preferred speed to listen to is slightly faster than conversational. It's clear and coherent, and makes everyone's job easier.

Also, please signpost!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

For LD

I don't debate LD, so I'm probably not familiar with what the current topic is. I understand how LD debate works, but treat me more lay than tech plspls.

Please signpost stuff you read!

Everything from the PF tab above also applies.

Please be good people!

If something happens in a round that makes the round unsafe for one or more people in it, including but not limited to racism, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia, and sexism, I'm going to stop the debate, give an auto L and the lowest speaks I can possibly give to the offending team, and I'm going to tab.

In a similar vein, I won't evaluate horrific arguments, like racism good or human trafficking good, and I'll deal with it as I have stated above.

Have fun, enjoy yourselves, and learn something new. I hope this was all helpful.

Peace out,

John Lutterman

speak good do good

Please do not speak very fast making it difficult to follow.

I prefer Speechdrop, but if you insist on using an email chain, add me: fedupblackgurl@gmail.com

4/12/2022 addition: The strangest thing happened to me last weekend. I have been judging since I graduated from Lamar HS in 2006. I use similar language on my ballots in every round, and a problem has never been brought to my attention. However, two coaches at an NSDA recently complained about the language used on my ballots. I am including that language here:

Comments for *the debater*

"Do you have a strategy for reading the AC? Because you sent me 35 pages and only got through like 24. Is the strat just to literally spread as much as you can? Would it not be better to structure the case in a way where you make sure to get through what is important? For example, you read the stuff about warming, but you did not even get through the "warming causes extinction" stuff, so you do not have a terminal impact for the environmental journalism subpoint.

New cards in the 1AR?! As if you do not already have enough to deal with?! This strategy is still making no sense. And then, you sent this doc with all these cards AGAIN and did not read them all. This is so weird to do in the 1AR because the strat should be really coherent because you have so little time. This was SLOPPY work."

RFD: "I negate. This was a painful/sloppy round to judge. Both debaters have this weird strat where they just read as much stuff as they can and I guess, hope that something sticks. This round could have gone either way, and I am in the rare situation where I am not even comfortable submitting my ballot. To be clear, there was no winner in this round. I just had to choose someone. So, I voted neg on climate change because it was the clearest place to vote. I buy that we need advocacy in order to solve. I buy that objectivity decreases public interest in climate change. I buy that we need advocacy to influence climate change. I buy that "objectivity" creates right-winged echo chambers that further perpetuate climate change. These args were ineffectively handled by the Aff. The other compelling line of argumentation from the neg showed how lack of advocacy on issues like climate change harm minorities more. I think neg did a good job of turning Aff FW and showing how he linked into SV better. This round was a hot mess, but I vote neg... I guess."

If I am your judge, these are the types of ballots you will get if you give me a round that it messy and hard to adjudicate. I should not have to say this because my reputation precedes me, but ASK ANYONE. LITERALLY ANYONE. I AM NICE. I AM KIND. MY BLACK MAMA RAISED ME WELL. I show up at tournaments and hug people and smile (even people on the circuit who are known to be racially problematic and even coaches who are known to be sore losers). I am literally good to everyone because as a Black woman, I do not have the luxury of raising my voice, making demands, or throwing tantrums. Actions that coaches in other bodies with other body parts are allowed to get away with are prohibited and result in career suicide for me and humans who look like me. So, if these ballots offend you, STRIKE ME NOW. Request that I not judge you/your students NOW. Do not wait until you get the ballot back and paint me into a villain. It isn't that I will not try to make my ballots less harsh. It is that IN MY QUALIFIED OPINION and in the opinion of many other qualified coaches and judges, the ballots ARE NOT HARSH. Communication styles are largely CULTURAL. And as a Black woman, I do not think that I need to overly edit myself just to make white people comfortable or happy. I have done enough to make white people love me, and my entire life, I have adjusted to their passive and overt aggression, including the white coach who most recently told me in a call that he "better not see my ass again at a tournament." I responded with an apology text.

I love students and I love debate. I am never tired of debate. I come to tournaments happy and leave fulfilled because debate is all I have loved to do since I found it. It is (or maybe was) my safe space and my happy place. *Ask me the story of how I joined Lanier debate as a 6th grader :)* Please do a Black woman a favor, and don't treat me like the world treats me. Do not read a tenor or tone into my ballots just because they are not fluffy or favorable. Unlike a lot of judges, I am flowing (on paper -- not hiding behind my computer doing God knows what), and trying to write down every single helpful comment I can come up with (and still submitting my ballot expeditiously to keep the tournament on time). As a result, I do not always do a great job of editing my ballots to make sure they don't sting a little. But students and coaches, if I say something hurtful, find me after the round. I guarantee you that it was not intentionally hurtful. You can talk to me, and I always smile when people approach me :)

Notice the parallels between how I write in my paradigm, in the "controversial" ballot, and in the new stuff I added above. If anyone would have taken the time to read my paradigm, they would know that this is how I ALWAYS communicate.

Students, TBH, a lot of the stuff I am writing on the ballots is not even your fault. Sometimes, as coaches, we do not know things or forget to tell you things, and that is ON US, not on you.

MY ACTUAL PARADIGM IS BELOW:

I don’t know everything nor will I pretend to. Please don’t hold me to such an impossible standard. But I read; I try to keep up with you kiddos as much as I can; and I’ve made speech and debate a priority in my life since 1999. So even though I don’t know everything, I know a lot.

Before you read my paradigm, hear this: Good debate is good debate. Whatever you choose to do, do it well, starting at a foundational level. At the end of the day, just know that I’m doing my very best to choose the best debater(s)/the person/team who showed up and showed out :)

General debate paradigm:

*I do not keep time in debate rounds, and I am always ready. If you ask me if I am ready, I will ignore you*

The older I get, the less I care about tech, and the more I care about truth.

1. ARGUMENTATION: Line-by-line and big picture are two sides of the same coin. It’s crucial not to drop arguments (but I won’t make the extension or fill in the impact for you. It is your job to tell me why the drop matters w/in the larger context of the debate). At the same time, the line-by-line is a lot less useful when you don’t paint the picture of what an Aff or Neg world looks like.

2. EXTENSIONS: When extending, I like for you to extend the claim, warrant, and the impact. I’m old school that way.

3. WEIGHING: Weighing is crucial to me. A bunch of args all over the flow with no one telling me how heavily they should be evaluated is a nightmare.

4. FRAMING: I understand that not all the debates have framework per se, but do tell me which impacts to prioritize. That’s helpful.

5. VOTERS: I like voters. I’m old school in that way too.

6. SPEED: I am generally fine with any level of speed and will indicate if this becomes an issue. I do appreciate that PF is designed to be a little slower, so I would like it if you respected that.

7. SPEAKS: If you cross the line from snarky to mean, I will dock your speaks, esp if your opp is being nice and you are being mean. I will also dock your speaks if you do to much unnecessary talking (e.g., constantly asking if I am ready, saying "Threeee.... twooooo....one" and "tiiiime....staaarts....now" or any similar phrase.) Basically, just run the round and make all your words count rather than just talking to hear yourself talk or nervously rambling.

LD:

1. STYLE: I’m indifferent to/comfortable with the style of debate you choose (i.e, “traditional” v. “progressive”). This means that I’m fine with value/vc framing as well as pre-fiat “framing” args (or whatever you fancy kids are calling them these days) like ROB/ROJ args. I love a good critical argument when done well. I’m also fine with all policy-style arguments and appreciate them when properly and strategically employed.

2. FRAMING: framework isn’t a voter. It’s the mechanism I use to weigh offensive arguments. To win the round, win/establish framework first; then, tell me how you weigh under it.

3. IMPACT CALCULUS: Offense wins debate rounds. I vote on offense linked back to the standard. Weigh the impacts in both rebuttals.

Policy/CX:

1. POLICY-MAKING: generally, I vote for the team who makes the best policy.

2. TOPICALITY: While I default reasonability and rarely vote on topicality, I do appreciate a good competing interp. I will vote on topicality if your interpretation blows me away, but I do need coherent standards and voters. Don’t be lazy.

3. THEORY/KRITIKS: I’m a sucker for philosophy. Give me a well-contextualized alternative, and I’ll be eating it all up.

4. IMPACTS: I respect the nature of policy debate, and I realize that hyperbolic impacts like nuclear war and extinction are par for the course. With that said, I love being able to vote on impacts that are actually probable.

5. TOPICAL CPs: No, just no.

PUBLIC FORUM: your warrants should be explicit. Your terminal impacts should be stated in-case. You should extend terminal defense and offense in summary speech. Give voters in the final focus.

HOW TO WIN MY BALLOT: I am first and foremost a black woman. I don’t believe in speech and debate existing in an academic vacuum. If you want to win my ballot, tell me how your position affects me as a black woman existing in a colonial, white supremacist, patriarchal, capitalist, heteronormative society. Show me coherently that your advocacy is good for me, and you’ll win my ballot every time.

PUBLIC SPEAKING AND INTERP:

I judge based on the ballot criteria.

I like to see binder craft in POI.

I like a good teaser with lots of energy.

I do not like ACTING in the introductions. That should be the REAL YOU. Showcase your public speaking ability.

I like pieces to fall between 9:10-10:10 time range.

EXTEMP SPECIFICALLY:

I like a good AGD.

Restate topic verbatim.

Most important thing in extemp is directly answering the prompt.

Three main points preferred.

I like at least 2 sources per main point.

Do not get tangential.

Do not be stiff, but do not be too informal.

No colloquialisms.

STRONG ORGANIZATION (Intro, 3MPs, and a Conclusion that ties back to intro.)

I LIKE ALL THE STANDARD STUFF.

For Interpretive Speech Events (POI, DI, DUO, HI) I prefer a clean presentation of book etiquette in the events that a black book is needed. Clean page turns and blocking with your black book is preferred.

Clean and syncopated blocking and use of tonality and vocal expression is preferred. Also scenes from exposition to rising and falling action should be well expressed with a variety of emotions and transitions should be clearly articulated in a way that connects audience with characters and literature.

For Debate (CX, PF) I'm a solvency person. Show me plan text and why it matters and how it translates into tangible results that can either maintain or improve the SQ. Overall, as long as AFF and NEG stick to STOCK Issues, I believe it will enhance the overall debate and educational outcomes. I'm open to Kritiks as well.

(LD, WSD) how does your presentation make the world a better place both practically and theoretically. Whichever team can uphold its criterion and prove how the world is a better place under the construct of its case will win.

For INFO, OO, EXTEMP, I prefer quality sources and clean speaker transitions throughout the speech.

Im a lay judge speak slow and give good argumentation.

I need docs to understand and articulate arguments send them to shail21_21@yahoo.com

Thanks and I hope for a good debate!

Content:

I will evaluate the debate primarily on the basis of content. This means that I will be looking for debaters who have a deep understanding of the resolution, can present their arguments clearly and concisely, and can respond effectively to their opponents' arguments. I will also be looking for debaters who can use evidence effectively to support their claims.

Speaking:

While speaking is not as important to me as content, I will still evaluate debaters on their speaking skills. I will be looking for debaters who speak clearly and at a reasonable pace, and who are able to articulate their arguments in a way that is easy to understand. I will also be looking for debaters who are respectful of their opponents and the judges.

No theory, kritiks, etc.:

I will not be evaluating debaters on their ability to argue theory or kritiks. I believe that debates should be focused on the resolution at hand, and I do not want to encourage debaters to use technical arguments to avoid engaging with the substance of the topic.

No evidence manipulation, paraphrase:

I expect debaters to use evidence fairly and accurately. I will not tolerate evidence manipulation or paraphrase. If I find that a debater is manipulating or paraphrasing evidence, I will view this as a serious violation of the rules of debate.

Hi! I'm Allison and I competed in PF for two years and competed in Original Oratory for two years as well. I don't have much experience judging LD so please be sure to make your argument as if I am completely unaware of your topic.

General

- Tech>Truth

- If you plan on spreading send the doc and avoid going too fast as we are online

- Add me to the email chain (allisonnguyenn7@gmail.com)

- Slow down on taglines

- Signpost

- Clarity>speed

- Decide the round for me by weighing your impacts under the winning framework

Argument Prefs

- in LD, I'll be judging off of value/criterion/framework. I want to see a clear framework that's well explained and illustrates the connections of how your FW influences your argument.

Speaker Points

25: You were offensive/rude

26-27: Need to improve

27-28: Below average

28-28.5: Average

28.5-29: Above average

29-29.5: You should break here

29.5-30: You have a solid shot at winning the tournament

Hi! I'm Allison and I competed in PF for two years and competed in Original Oratory for two years as well. I don't have much experience judging LD so please be sure to make your argument as if I am completely unaware of your topic.

General

- Tech>Truth

- If you plan on spreading send the doc and avoid going too fast as we are online

- Add me to the email chain (allisonnguyenn7@gmail.com)

- Slow down on taglines

- Signpost

- Clarity>speed

- Decide the round for me by weighing your impacts under the winning framework

Argument Prefs

- in LD, I'll be judging off of value/criterion/framework. I want to see a clear framework that's well explained and illustrates the connections of how your FW influences your argument.

Speaker Points

25: You were offensive/rude

26-27: Need to improve

27-28: Below average

28-28.5: Average

28.5-29: Above average

29-29.5: You should break here

29.5-30: You have a solid shot at winning the tournament

Neither speed nor file justifies lack of clarity. Slow for tags and, especially, authors if you're going fast.

I can understand and vote for anything with warrants & clear explanation

Do not clash and refute from after constructives until the absolute end of the debate. I need voters and/or weighing to vote for you

LD/CX:

Varying degrees of knowledge on diff philosophy/high theory, up to you to risk finding out whether our knowledge intersects,

but anything w/ warrant/explanation

PF:
Line-by-line, weigh

Ask in round for more specifics

Lay parent judge.

For interp and speech events, speaking is most important.

For debate, content outweighs speaking

My name is Jose Ortuno and I am a political science major at the Univerisity of Houston. I am happy to be a part of UH's debate team and hope to compete in many rounds for them in my final year of undergrad. I am a novice debater who had no prior experience with debate until the fall semester of 2021, but I am looking forward to being able to apply my knowledge to future tournaments as both a judge and a competitor.

My email is j133ortuno5c@gmail.com for e-mail chains, document forwarding, etc.

As previously stated, I have limited experience, but I a fan of organized, well-structured arguments that are able to leave me with a strong impact. Conciseness is key to me. Thank you.

I'm a relatively new judge in debate, < 1 year of experience.

I would prefer a relatively slower speaking speed, and for important arguments to be explained clearly throughout the round.

I expect teams/individuals to keep track of their own time in terms of speeches/prep.

tylerpfeifer1@gmail.com - email

I expect teams/individuals to keep track of their own time in terms of speeches/prep.

Be clear in your thoughts and layout the structure of your speech confidently

Be conversational in your speaking and go slow.

Context: I'm a new parent judge that has only judged a handful of rounds, and while I have completed the Adjudicating Speech and Debate course by the NFHS I'm still learning multiple aspects of speech and debate. 

For: Speech 

For all the Speech, people. YOU must be respectful of others in your room, don't be nervous, stand confidently and give your speech to the best of your ability; it can get nerve-racking at the front of the room. Just know I'm judging you for all the good things you do, not the bad things!

Interp, Poetry, Duo Interp, Duet Acting

Delivery- I want to know if you have honed your speaking abilities and if you have practiced. It's easy to tell how much work you have time into memorizing and perfecting every part of your speech. Don't let a little stutter or stumble trip you up. A little mistake like that won't be the thing that holds you back. Your Presentation should be WELL prepared.

Passion- I want you to express yourself as much as possible. Truly embrace your piece and make me feel it. I want to cry, laugh, or reminisce at the end of your speech. If you can make me feel your speech and piece, I will feel significantly more connected to your piece.

Piece- It should be unique. It should be something you can relate to and a piece you have a connection with. Make sure your story is coherent and that it flows well. Overall ill be focusing more on your presentation, but if the piece isn't good, then neither will your speech.

Informative and Original Oratory 

Delivery- I want to know if you have honed your speaking abilities and if you have practiced. It's easy to tell how much work you have time into memorizing and perfecting every part of your speech. Don't let a little stutter or stumble trip you up. A little mistake like that won't be the thing that holds you back. Your Presentation should be WELL prepared.

Research- It should be clear to me that you have a deep understanding of what's going on. Whether that comes from your tone or content, it should be well thought out and, more importantly, well-researched. I don't want you just to give me a lot of facts and expect me to give you a high rank. Carefully weave it within your speech so that it flows well. I want to learn something new during your speech!

If you have any questions, please let me know!

For: Debaters

I am a new parent judge. Consider me extremely lay. 

Speed- I don't like speed. A conversational pace is preferred. Nothing faster than 165wpm at most.

Kritik/Theory/Disads/Add-ons/Framework- I don't debate, nor have I ever done debate. I won't be able to evaluate these arguments, so DON'T make them.

How to get my vote- Tell me WHY I should vote for you. Don't assume that I will grasp any argument made; I won't, so explain them; I evaluate everything from basic content to cross-fire to presentation. I enjoy it when the debater is persuasive and can stay calm and collected. Of course, debate to the best of your ability, stand confidently, and do your best.

Cross Fire- Be kind to each other; I will be accounting for crossfire during my ballot.

Speaker Points-  I will give points if you follow the other aspects mentioned. I don't want a rude or condescending tone, BE RESPECTFUL to everyone in the round, whether that's a spectator or your opponent. Don't say anything racist, sexist, ableist, or homophobic I will down you and give you the worst speaker points I can give. Debate well and be confident. Explain everything, and you will get better points.

If you have any questions that aren't answered, please let me know!

Hi guys! My name is Sophia Pirani and I've been a part of the Speech and Debate Team for the past four years- I competed in Varsity Public Forum for three years and Original Oratory for one. For debate rounds, I will flow the round and follow along with your arguments but it is important that you articulate and EXPLAIN your argument. I value if you make the round easy for me to judge and lay out your case so I can easily follow along and find a clear path to vote from.

Some things I believe you should do in a round:

- Even though I can follow along, I prefer you do not spread. Spreading makes it difficult to fully explain your arguments and evidence and leaves gaps in my understanding of the topic.

- Make sure you properly articulate and speak clearly and loudly so I can understand what you're saying. I will give you high speaks if you do so.

- No speaking over each other during round. This means in crossfire if a person is asking a question let them finish speaking before you respond. I do not tolerate any disrespect towards your opponents.

- Make sure you give me a CLEAR BALLOT to vote from. If you continue to reiterate your arguments in your speeches and emphasize the information you want me to remember, then I will vote for you.

- Provide me with a roadmap before every speech so I can flow properly.

- Make sure you WEIGH THROUGHOUT THE ROUND. When you weigh your arguments and explain to me why YOU HAVE THE MOST IMPORTANT CASE, then I will vote for you. However, don't just say we outweigh on magnitude or probability and expect me to understand it. Explain why you do and compare it to the opponents argument to tell me why I should prefer your argument.

- Remember to have a good time in round! Please ask me any additional questions if you have any before the round starts and keep your time throughout the round. I will as well but if your opponent goes over time and I do not catch it, indicate it to me so I know when to stop flowing.

- I will provide comments in the comments section to give you feedback on what you can improve. I will also not disclose during round but I will release my results right after.

Thank you and good luck to you all!

Hi guys! My name is Sophia Pirani and I've been a part of the Speech and Debate Team for the past four years- I competed in Varsity Public Forum for three years and Original Oratory for one. For debate rounds, I will flow the round and follow along with your arguments but it is important that you articulate and EXPLAIN your argument. I value if you make the round easy for me to judge and lay out your case so I can easily follow along and find a clear path to vote from.

Some things I believe you should do in a round:

- Even though I can follow along, I prefer you do not spread. Spreading makes it difficult to fully explain your arguments and evidence and leaves gaps in my understanding of the topic.

- Make sure you properly articulate and speak clearly and loudly so I can understand what you're saying. I will give you high speaks if you do so.

- No speaking over each other during round. This means in crossfire if a person is asking a question let them finish speaking before you respond. I do not tolerate any disrespect towards your opponents.

- Make sure you give me a CLEAR BALLOT to vote from. If you continue to reiterate your arguments in your speeches and emphasize the information you want me to remember, then I will vote for you.

- Provide me with a roadmap before every speech so I can flow properly.

- Make sure you WEIGH THROUGHOUT THE ROUND. When you weigh your arguments and explain to me why YOU HAVE THE MOST IMPORTANT CASE, then I will vote for you. However, don't just say we outweigh on magnitude or probability and expect me to understand it. Explain why you do and compare it to the opponents argument to tell me why I should prefer your argument.

- Remember to have a good time in round! Please ask me any additional questions if you have any before the round starts and keep your time throughout the round. I will as well but if your opponent goes over time and I do not catch it, indicate it to me so I know when to stop flowing.

- I will provide comments in the comments section to give you feedback on what you can improve. I will also not disclose during round but I will release my results right after.

Thank you and good luck to you all!

I value weighing, signposting, politeness during cross, and proper extensions. If it boils down to it, I will vote solely based on link clarity.

30 speaks if there's a chief keef reference somewhere in your speech.

Hi, I am a parent judge.

Keep debates grounded. Presentation is REALLY important to me. Explain things in layman terms.

Public Speaking Events: Structure and presentation is important. It should feel like a conversation but not like I'm talking to a friend either so no informal language or tones

Oratory/Informative: I am not opposed to performance pieces when they are natural. If the "interp" feels forced, fake, or mechanical, it throw the speech off for me. Performance pieces should be for a purpose and a gimmick.

Interp Events: Blocking and conviction is key. Just because you have movement does not mean you have blocking. For example walking/running around the room is not blocking unless the script scene really calls for that. Blocking and transitions between character should be clean and clear. Literary merit is just as important as performance and when it comes down to breaking a tie between two amazing performances, I will go with the selection that has the most literary merit.

POI: Binder usage is fine but should be with purpose. Using it as prop for the sole purpose of having a prop is not okay. While I understand that most people memorize their performance this is not supposed to be performed that way. If you are going to memorize your performance do so with a sufficient number of page turns and block in reading from or at least look for a moment at your binder. If you never appear to read from it I will drop your ranking because you have given me a DI/HI. Additionally I am not a fan dropping images or words from your binder from visual effect. The only time I think this is okay is if it is a direct photo copy of the images in the original script or the only words you have spoken while on that page. Outside of this you are using the drops as a prop which is not allowed.

Mix of stock issues judge and tabla rasa- prefer a clear, traditional debate but don’t mind if teams run a kritike or counterplan with sufficient evidence and clear argumentation to back it up

Speech style- I prefer speech clarity over speed reading. A succinct argument that doesn't spread is preferred.

Argument- No preference for argument as long as it is backed by evidence and fits within status quo of possibility.

Sources- Credit will be given for most contemporary and credible sources presented in argument. Repetition of sources and linking to argument is preferred method of citation.

Looking for a good, clean, and respectable debate. Courtesy and good sportsmanship matter towards overall scoring.

How I Judge -

1. I am a flow judge; speaking clearly and concisely is best

2. I deliberate on overall presentation - mainly on argumentation, impactful refutation, and rhetoric.

Other -

1. Please don't bring philosophical debate, it's unnecessary and detracts from the main focus of the round.
2. Go at a medium pace, while speaking. Content should be clear.
3. I do not disclose results in round
4. Please don't contact me through Tabroom after the debate asking personal question (i.e. how did you/we do). RFDs will be posted shortly after the debate.

TL;DR: warrant, collapse, implicate, weigh, extend consistently and don't be offensive/rude. Add me to the email chain: Alina.shivji1@gmail.com

SPEED

Go as fast as you want, and I’ll flow it. If you’re unclear, I’ll say clear twice and then put my pen down. After that, what I can follow is entirely based on your clarity.

PROGRESSIVE ARGUMENTS

Feel free to read them. That said, these arguments don’t typically function well in PF due to time constraints. So, I do prefer substance in PF. If you do debate progressively, note that crossfire and flex prep serves as accountability on your advocacy. My default is reasonability. If you want me to approach these args from a different standpoint, tell me.

Feel free to read arguments about any of the -isms. But, make sure in the process, you’re not otherizing. For example, if you are not a Muslim woman who identifies with the LGBT+ community, don’t read arguments about it. Also, if you are reading any arguments concerning sexual harassment/assault/suicide/etc., I expect a trigger warning BEFORE the round.

EXTENSIONS

I have a high threshold for extensions. I expect you to extend the internal links to the argument as well as the impact. In other words, just tell me how you get from point A to C before you extend the impact. If you don’t, I’ll still evaluate the arg but I’ll be less inclined to vote for it.

Defense is sticky until it’s frontlined

FRONTLINING

respond to offensive responses ie turns and terminal defense before you access weighing in the second rebuttal

WEIGHING

Tell me WHY the extended argument matters more than your opponents. If your opponents give me a different mechanism than you to prefer their argument, explain why your mechanism should be evaluated first (metaweighing).

Don’t introduce new weighing in second FF unless your opponents made a critical weighing concession in GCX. The only other exception to that rule is when neither team has weighed up until the second FF.

INTERVENTION

I try not to intervene as much as possible. If there’s no offense in the round and its a policy-oriented topic, I’ll default neg aka the status quo. If it's not a policy-oriented topic, I'll default towards what's most probable.

I won’t call for evidence unless you tell me to. If the evidence is miscut, I won’t evaluate it and I will penalize your speaks for it.

TECH > TRUTH

If you didn't say it in the round, don't expect me to evaluate it regardless of how "true" the argument may be. That said, use common sense and have good judgement. If you say something incorrect, it won't influence my decision, but I will call you out after the round.

IMPLICATE!

The link to an argument matters but if you don't tell me HOW it fits in the round, I won't know what to do with it. So, tell me what argument serves as turns/terminal defense, why, and what that means for you/your opponents in the round.

Please speak clear and at a medium pace. Participants to manage the clock.

Looks for clarity in arguements, promptness in rebuttals, logical prgression of thoughts while talking and in responses, and knowledge/ understanding on the subject matter.

Results and feedbacks will be posted in Tabroom.

I. General Philosophy:

• I value clear, concise, and respectful communication.
• I judge based on the quality of arguments, not the quantity.
• I am open to various styles and approaches, but I expect strong evidence and logical reasoning.

II. Debate Specific:

• Burdens of proof: I expect the affirmative to establish their case and the negative to challenge it.
• Theory: I am open to traditional theory arguments, but I will not vote on frivolous or abusive ones.
• Weighing: I appreciate clear explanations of why your arguments are more important than your opponent's.
• Evidence: I value credible and well-sourced evidence, such as academic journals, expert opinions, and reliable statistics.
• Impact: Explain how your arguments make a real-world difference and why they should matter to the audience.

III. Speech Specific:

• Delivery: I evaluate vocal variety, clarity, eye contact, and overall stage presence.
• Content: I assess the depth of research, clarity of organization, and effectiveness of argumentation.
• Originality: I appreciate unique perspectives and engaging approaches to the topic.
• Engagement: I value the speaker's ability to connect with the audience and evoke emotional response (if applicable to the speech type).

IV. Additional Notes:

• Feel free to ask me questions during the round to clarify any expectations.
• I will maintain professionalism and impartiality throughout the round.

V. Preferences (Optional):

• Speed: I prefer a clear and understandable speaking pace, but I am flexible within limits.
• Visual aids: Feel free to use visual aids, but ensure they are clear, relevant, and not distracting.

Speak in a normal speed and tone. When you speak fast, it comes off very monotone. Debate is a conversation about specific topics. Be CONVERSATIONAL in your speaking. It's not about who gets the most information, but about who has the best information and presents it best. DO NOT SPREAD!!!

Please make sure your cameras are turned on.

Please don't tell me how to vote. You may SUGGEST how I should vote. But, when one says "you must vote in favor of (insert side here)," it sounds more like a demand.

arjunsurya473@gmail.com

Did PF & LD in high school, now do NPDA now at Rice.

Fine with most arguments, just be be clear and slow down on Ks/theory. I'm not super sure how norms are in LD so if you're going to go for an argument be very clear about what the link story is in the rebuttals and do enough weighing so I know how to evaluate it.

I don't have any particular preference for RVIs, Spec, Condo, or anything really. Just make clear arguments about why you should win with it. For Ks, I'm familiar with cap/futurism/Baudrillard/Lacan/Hauntology/ but you should still explain the alts to me like I'm a PFer because I low key don't really know what most of these arguments mean even when I read them.

I don't really know what a judge kick is but from my understanding I would err on the side of not doing that in front of me. Just collapse normally or do weighing to get out of an argument.

DEBATE EVENTS

I am a LAY judge

Please explain your arguments at a conversational rate. If you talk too fast, then I won't be able to understand what you are saying. If I can understand your argument, then that will be favorable. Also, please sign post and tell me what points you are going for and why that's good. DO NOT BE TECHNICAL.

Don't be rude during Cross Examination- I will reduce speaker points and probably drop you. Give your opponents the ability to speak.

I won't evaluate progressive arguments such as theory, kritiks, etc.

I am a speech and debate coach. I consider speech events to be an excellent way for student's to have real-world practice in conveying their thoughts and beliefs. I enjoy listening to speech events that show a speaker's range as it pertains to vocal tonality, personality and knowledge. I look for clear preparation and organization through details brought fourth in the introduction, body and conclusion. Sources should be clearly stated and expanded on. I want to hear content on social, political and educational topics that revolve around current events. Adding in personal touches when appropriate are also appreciated. I consider debate a communications event. Please present your arguments using a professional and conversational style. I prefer a traditional style of debate and am big on speaker clarity. I’m okay with a speaking pace a bit faster than ‘normal’ conversation but avoid monotone speaking and inhibited breathing! Do not spread. Better evidence is more important than more evidence. Sources matter! Evidence isn’t an argument; it should support arguments. Be sure to extend your arguments, especially after they’ve been attacked. Take advantage of Cross-ex to set up arguments for the rest of the round. Topics reflect concerns in our society, so take it seriously and do not waste my time with case approaches that do not consider the framers’ intent. My vote is based on the arguments you and your opponent present. Please don’t be jerky or rude – it will cost you speaker points!

• Don't be offensive and be respectful to people( respect their pronouns, names, etc).
• Make it a productive debate but also have fun!
• Feel free to ask any questions after round if we have time!

PF and LD

Don't spread and make sure that everything you say is loud and clear; make sure to speak slowly, so I don't miss anything.

My son does debate at Seven Lakes HS.

I will write notes/"flow" to the best of my ability.

I'd prefer if speeds were conversation paced as i may not be able to follow debates that are too quick.

New arguments made in the last speeches will not be evaluated.

Please speak with confidence.

Please respect the opponents, judges, and spectators.

Hi, I debated four years on the national circuit for Seven Lakes from 2018-2022.

gtoc 3x, nsda 3x, nsda finals

zhang.justi@northeastern.edu

Update for Harvard 2/17: im pretty serious about the "speed" line in my paradigm. i wont assume you said something if I didn't hear it/flow it in speech. I generally find myself voting for teams that do a better job with explanation and warranting rather than going super fast. I was never really a fast debater in high school, so I'd much prefer judging debates <250 wpm.

I will not flow off of or look at a doc. I do, however, want to be on the chain to expedite looking for evidence if necessary.

Defense -implicate the defense I won't do it for you AND weigh the defense against their case.

Turns -please extend warrants for turns and implicate them.... also weigh the turns against their case.

Weighing -Please make it comparative and interactive.

Frontlining - second rebuttal should frontline everything, no sticky defense.

speed - if I can't understand u and miss warrants, I'm not ghost extending them for you. So go as fast as you want at your own risk.

Progressive Arguments -I feel somewhat comfortable evaluating almost all progressive arguments. With that being said, I am very receptive to reasonability arguments and "we can't engage" answers as well.

msc-

• am okay with and would prefer to cut grand for a min of prep but up to debaters.
• please try to setup the email chain ahead of time so we can save time
• will not entertain post rounding.
• ill give speaks adjusted by division. for instance, an average varsity speech may receive a 28-28.5 in the varsity division, but that same speech may receive a 29-29.5 in JV etc.

Hello, I am a parent judge. Send speech docs for every speech including rebuttal to flyoverbluesky@gmail.com

Don't be mean or I'll lower speaks.

Assume I don't know anything about the topic.

Debaters, enjoy the debate!