Platform events will be judged based on--in the order of priority--the originality of the piece; the quality of the delivery, including syntax, diction, and nonverbal communication skills; the content covered in the speech, such as its relevance to current events/personal life; and the significance, deliberate use, and credibility of citations (when applicable). You are more likely to be ranked higher by me if you give a more original speech with poorer delivery than a better-delivered but less original speech.

For interpretation events, you will be ranked higher essentially based on two criteria, again in order of priority: the separation of characters, the flow of the piece, and the ease with which I could tell what is going on; and the significance of the piece, be it personal, comedic, or dramatic. Whichever avenue you choose, do it well (when it comes to dramatic vs. comedic), and I will NOT compare the actual tones of the pieces, only the quality with which you deliver your chosen tone.

PF and other debate events will be judged principally on the complexity of argument and robustness of sourcing, with a secondary emphasis on decorum and quality of delivery. Cross-examination will be factored into my decisions somewhat heavily since you need to be able to defend your argument just as well as you constructed it.

I prefer if speakers wait for all judges to respond that they are ready before speaking. A balance between presentation and substance is a must. Say your sources clearly and explain with specifics.

NSDA endorsed speech coach.

For speech: I view judging speech events the same way that I view casting a play or musical. I have a problem: determining who is the best competitor in the event. The competitors have the solution. Be confident. Make a choice - even if it's not a great one. Present the best of yourself and your skills in that moment. Much like theatre, I want to see a well rehearsed piece with the "illusion of the first time."

I will strive to provide you with positives and areas for improvement.

For debate, I am looking for a clear, logical argument and line of reasoning, well supported with unquestionable sources. Deliver with the skills and confidence of a speech competitor. Solid counterarguments and a good defense/response to questioning moves you ahead in the rankings.

Smile and try your darndest!

I value structure, commitment, and creativity.

Good luck and have fun!!!

Written by son

I’m a doctor and a lay judge; I’ll take notes but I will not evaluate the round off of the flow.
Be nice and have fun!

aravulapati@gmail.com and caryprdebate@gmail.com

for chains ^

I'm a parent judge for speech. What I'm looking for in speech is fairly simple: well-prepared, having a clear idea and conveying your idea precisely to the audience.

Other previous experiences: I'm used to be a parent judge for Lay LD debate. I’m looking for clear but not too fast speeches, sharp questions and responses in cross examinations, and strong rebuttals. I'm also expecting well-prepared cards and at the same time being interested in how you are engaging your logical thinking in the debate. Besides all the debate techniques, respecting your opponent is also key to my judgement.

I am a lay judge. While I may not have direct experience in debate, I have an understanding of PF concepts and how the rounds work at a basic level. I have a Ph.D in communication, and I teach public speaking and interpersonal communication in college, so I value the importance of your communication skills, argumentation, and overall persuasiveness. Make your points clearly, engage with other's arguments respectfully, and have impactful communication.

Please time your own speeches and prep time. I will try to keep track, but I appreciate you doing it for me. I appreciate some level of moderate pacing of speeches as well.

Thank you.

Note:

This is her son and I'm a second year LDer. My Mom usually judges speech and she's never judged an actual debate round before so you're going to have to explain all jargon very well (even the basics: turn, link, internal link, de-link). Also be aware that she's brand new to flowing as well so make sure to have an off-time roadmap and to have clear signposting.

Overall, just go slow, signpost well, and weigh clearly and you'll get the W 30.