In speech events, I am looking for accessible language and demonstrated preparedness on the speech topic. In debate events, I am looking for a clear and persuasive argument, and rebuttals that address specific claims. I appreciate speakers who are able to hold their audience captive and make concise points. I may deduct points if the speaking is too fast for me to follow.

Regarding time signals:

I trust speakers to keep their own time, however, I will also be keeping time and I will gladly give limited time signals if requested.

Welcome to Speech and Debate! I competed in high school debate for two years and am currently competing in Speech and Debate on the collegiate level. In high school, I competed in Congressional Debate, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu Speaking, Original Oratory, and Humorous Interpretation.

My credentials...

- I ended my career as one of the top 3 competitors in Congressional Debate in Mississippi.

- I competed in out-rounds at NSDA 2021 in Congressional Debate and P.O.ed on every level of competition.

- I was top 6 in HI at State Champs.

- I was State Champion in Original Oratory during the 2020-2021 MSHAA Debate Season.

- I STILL compete as a debater and speech kid!

Generally speaking...

- My pronouns are she/her!

- My email is madisonfbiggerstaff@gmail.com. Evidence? Loop me in! Questions? Don't hesitate to ask!

- Speech and Debate is an educational experience. Try to get something out of every round.

- Have fun! At the end of the day, the skills you acquire during your time as a debater are much more important than the trophies or wins.

For Congress:

- Clash with others in the chamber! Work to further the debate.

- Don't rehash! Bring up new points that haven't been introduced or attack/support points that were previously mentioned.

- Do NOT attack the speaker's personal looks or beliefs (unless you want this L).

- I love a good rebuttal speech. If you can demonstrate why the chamber should pass/fail a bill by addressing your opposing sides' arguments and take them down, I can tell you've been paying attention.

- PO will be in my top 8 if they are fair, clearly follow parliamentary procedure (there's wiggle room for a few mistakes, don't worry), and move the debate along. I'm looking for leadership! Being a PO isn't an easy task.

- Be yourself. Try not to give a "cookie-cutter" speech. I'm looking for originality and something that makes you different as a competitor. If you're yourself, you'll be your most confident and comfortable self. :)

For Public Forum:

- I can understand most competitors when speaking quickly. However, PF is supposed to be accessible, so tread carefully on spreading. If I cannot understand your contentions, it won't be flowed.

- Clearly define any terms in the resolution that may be interpreted in different ways.

- Defend your claims (I know, DUH). But, it is easy to get caught up in the main points of clash instead of dividing up your time appropriately.

- Use your crossfires appropriately. Don't waste any time.

- No long-winded questions/answers. This is interactive. Fair debates > Abusive debates.

Note: I'm big on no abuse in rounds. If you sound like Romeo during crossfire because you decided you must monologue, you aren't helping anyone (not even yourself). Even during your own speeches, there shouldn't be targeted remarks. Debate can be sassy, but shouldn't be disrespectful.

- Practice proper decorum and respect (unless you want the L).

- Explain it like I'm 12. If you can't tell me why I should vote for or against a resolution without using unnecessary jargon, I will probably default to the side that I understand better.

LD:

- My paradigm for LD is very similar to my paradigm for PF.

- Value and criterion are extremely important! Make sure you state these clearly.

Final Notes...

I don't ask for anything extra in rounds I judge. If I gave you a layout of how I wanted a round to go exactly, you wouldn't be your best self, competitor or not. I'm flexible. If you provide a good argument, support it without being abusive/rude, and do it with grace, you have a good standing in my books.

Lincoln Douglas Debaters: I love to see a strong and continuous link to your Value and Value Criterion throughout your case. I judge by the flow, and do not mind spreading, but will not be able to fairly judge the round if I cannot understand you while spreading. Please be aware of your time, and be respectful during cross. This is not a Presidential Debate. Best of luck, Natalie

In all debate events, I prefer quality over quantity. I don't care how much evidence you have; if I can't understand it and you don't bother to analyze it in a way I can understand it, it doesn't impact my flow.

I also get particularly annoyed when debaters ask for my paradigm and then completely ignore it. If you don't care what I think, don't make a pro forma gesture by asking.

In cross, allow your opponent to answer your questions. You may certainly politely thank them to keep them from going on and on, but butting in after 4 words is not okay. I take a dim view of rude debaters, and it definitely affects your points.

Debate is a persuasive and communicative activity. Use your voice and your logic to persuade -- not practice to be an auctioneer in the future.

I did debate all four years of high school. I competed in PF and Congress, as well as interp and limited prep events. I was the 2019 State Champion in PF and Duet Acting, as well as national quarter finalist in congress at NSDA in 2019.

Speaking and debate are both important to me. Do not get caught up in the speaking style of your opponents, just address their arguments.

Do not spread, and for PF your arguments should be accessible. It’s called public forum for a reason, and should be accessible to laymen.

When addressing your opponents be respectful. I understand this activity can get heated, but it should still be cordial.

LD should address value criterion as well as the points presented by your opponent. Do not let the debate focus on solely one or the other.

speaker points are determined by clarity and overall contribution to the debate.

Your links between evidence and points should be very clear. I don’t care how much evidence you have if you don’t explain it’s importance.

most importantly have fun and be ready to learn. Despite this activity being about competition the goal should be for you guys to learn and be exposed to new ideas. Have fun and be respectful!