38th Annual Stanford Invitational
2024 — NSDA Campus, CA/US
World Schools Paradigm List
All Paradigms: Show HideI prefer teams with a clear and consistent line of logic with proper effort given to analyze ideas in a comparative manner. The teams should prioritize quality of the arguments over quantity.
Hey everyone, if you're reading this chances are I'm probably judging you so here some things I generally value in rounds. This will mostly apply to WSD as it was my event of choice for 4 years.
Things that make my job hard:
- Debating on margins (restrictive definitions, abusive framing)
- Not being comparative and charitable to your opponents
If this happens, I need reasons as to why I should prefer one interpretation over the other. If the debate comes down to two ships sailing in the night I can't resolve it without intervening.
Things that make my job easy:
- Clearly identifying the clashing material of the debate and weighing between and within those clashes.
- Weighing the framing of arguments and clash on a meta-level (things independent of layered rebuttal e.g. the role of the argument, why I should prefer a specific type of argument as opposed to another)
- Weigh the mechs/warrants behind the argument - tell me why your reasons matter more/are better than your opposition esp. in the case where there are shared impacts which happens more often than not simply due to the nature of WSD.
- Weigh impacts if they are differentiated.
- Be strategic. Don't carry down an unwarranted framing debate to the third speeches especially when there are far better ways to allocate time in terms of forwarding arguments, making good weighing, even-if statements, or just biting the bullet and engaging. More times than not if the framing is that ridiculous, I'll buy the ref coming from O1, it doesn't matter if your opponent sticks to a bad framework if I not leaning towards it anyway. Don't overcompensate! Good judge direction and being explicit from the onset will be more than enough to sway me in favor of your side.
A combination of the aforementioned stuff is the best way to get a decision you agree with from me. A lack of these things will result in a level of intervention that you probably won't like.
I'm not super authoritarian when it comes to style. If I can flow it and you signpost you'll do fine. I think the most refined speeches are a combination of content, strategy, and style, but I’d pivot more towards content and strategy rather than semantics and rhetoric.
True Principle Arguments are fun to see in action but they need to be properly extended and weighed against the practical otherwise I’ll just have a spot on the flow of a principle that was well established but poorly leveraged against other arguments. p.s. not enough to just say the principle matters more, there's need to be analysis i.e. if you're running a reparations argument examples of weighing line(s) could be:
- Practical benefits that place X group of people secondary are immoral because of the unique historical injustice committed against them (urgency)
- We ought to fulfill this principle because of this specific condensed harm that has affected a population for decades vs a marginal harm that affects people temporarily (intensity of harm)
all and all, trust yourself, debate well, and have fun
if you have questions you can reach me at ebenezer.g.appiah@gmail.com
Hi, I am a graduate who competed for Dripping Springs High School participating in mainly PF and Worlds.
Email:
brett.banks@utexas.edu- Add me to the chain, please!
Worlds:
I am a blank slate and treat this event as truth > tech. I have plenty of experience with this event so I know the ins and outs. This event is all about clash so please avoid being repetitive.
PF:
Tech > Truth within reason here. Add me to the chain.
LD/CX:
Very much traditional here, however, I am open to voting on anything. Just try to simplify any complicated arguments for me. I will almost always vote on the shortest path to the ballot.
Speech:
I honestly have no idea how to judge a speech event properly so just try to be fluent.
No preferences except for speed, speakers must be clear and concise.
Worlds School's Debate
This is the event I am most comfortable with, as I competed in this event for 4 years and spend a considerable amount of time judging/coaching WSD.
I will vote for the team that best proved their argument was true. For practical arguments, this means establishing characterizations, giving me multiple (preferably independent) mechanisms/links, and giving me clear impacts. For principle arguments, that means establishing that the principle is true and explaining to me why/how you fulfill the principle and why your opponents violate it. All arguments should be comparative (!), don't just critique your opponents world, actively/offensively tell me why your world is better. And of course, weigh your arguments (!) whether that be impact weighing, mechanism weighing, or metaweighing. Metaweighing is an easy way to get multiple paths to the ballot and score some strategy points.
It is not enough to prove to me that your world is "good" or that your opponents world is "bad", you must prove to me that your world is comparatively preferable to your opponents.
I very much prioritize content over style, as far as style goes all that matters is that you're speaking at a reasonable rate, your speech is easy to follow, and that you are not just reading off the paper but rather genuinely giving a speech. Can def score some extra points for good rhetoric/structure tho
PF/LD
I have judged PF/LD a decent amount 2 years, and will vote for the team with the least mitigated link chain and most strongly weighed impact, just debate good
If you ever have any questions or would like further feedback, you can reach out to me at diegocastilloo@icloud.com
If you get me as your judge in any event outside of these three, I am so sorry
Would prefer not spreading, but if you do then please send me a document.
I am a parent judge. I had some debate experiences in the past and I have also given many speeches to a variety of audiences in the past. It is important to ensure your arguments are sound, relevant and coherent. In addition to elaborate your arguments with evidence, ensure to address your opponent's points clearly and logically.
Speak clearly and in a reasonable speed.
Be on time, and dress appropriately.
Show respect to each other.
and finally, relax and have fun.
I look forward to seeing you at the tournament.
This paradigm is a little outdated in that I haven't gotten around to adding my prefs for other events so you can ask me in round. It hasn't changed much as far as LD or PF though.
Hi there, I've been judging debate (LD, PF, Congress, Parli, WSD) for about 6 years. I am tabula rasa when it comes to judging a round; don't expect me to know the topic. It is up to the debater to provide a framework that best upholds their arguments. I flow but if you spread, send me (and your opponent) your speech doc. That said, I don't want to look through pages and pages of your speech doc with a couple of words highlighted on each one. If you couldn't tell, I'm more familiar with traditional LD and have little experience in circuit debating. I weigh on framework and impact analysis. I like evidence and logical link chains with clear warrants. I like clash. I don't like falsified evidence, misleading evidence, disclosure theory or bad theory. I'm less familiar with K's, so make sure I can thoroughly understand them if you decide to run them. I'm pretty flay, so make your preferences accordingly. Please be respectful to one another. Being rude, disrespectful, racist, homophobic, and aggressive is not cool and will result in low speaks and/or loss.
Good luck everyone!
Hello! My name is Gi Colby. I have been on the speech and debate circuit for over 6 years. I competed in Extemp and Congress in high school, and now I compete in IPDA at the college level. Congress was my main event in high school, and I competed at the likes of Harvard and TOCs and was a finalist at GMU, Sunvitational, and Princeton. I am currently an assistant coach at Tierra Linda Middle School in California, and I work under Marty De to coach events like PF, Parli, Congress, World Schools, and informative events. My former school affiliation was Western High School, and my current university that I attend is the University of Florida.
But enough about my debate career, I would like to emphasize what I like in events.
For interpretation events such as HI and Duo, I like to be entertained. I am not so much of a technical judge with these events as I do not have much experience with them, but I do know the basics, and in general, I just want a well-polished piece that makes me feel something, and a speaker who is great as using gestures and their body language to put a piece together. I do not coach in these events, so I am not as experienced.
With informative and OO, which I do coach in, I like a piece that is meaningful and has a topic with depth. I also value organization and excellent speaking; in fact, I would go as far as to say that I value speaker quality over topic choice. I want you to change my opinion on something or teach me something new; that is the point of these events.
With impromptu, extemp, and Parli, I like a speaker who can think on the fly and is casual about it. All of these events are centered around a lay judge, meaning that the judge has no clue what you are talking about, so I want you to be able to convey and explain the topic and its points effectively. I want to go out of a round as a judge and understand what you are saying. Specifically Parli, I value a team that can "have a conversation" with the other teams' points, meaning that they refute all of the other team's points while staying clear and concise. I also am more of a flow judge in Parli if we are speaking technical terms. Again, I value a good speaker in all events, but in general, I will rank high if you are put together, speak well, and have excellent linkage.
For Congress, SPAR, and PF, the topics that I know the most about, I value refutation. These are called debate events for a reason; if you debate well, have clash, and interact with other speeches in the round well, you have my vote. If you are the first negation in Congress, I expect you to have a basic refutation if you are on the high school level. I want a person who can argue well but also remain collected and composed. I will drop you if you yell at someone else in round. Specifically for Congress, I do not give the winning rank to POs, however, I do respect them enough to give an in-between rank. For PF, I want a well-structured Final Focus, and specifically in this event, I will consider individual performance as well as team performance.
For World Schools (as it is an exception to everything here),I do tend to value the things that you are judged on, like style, content, and strategy. I like a team that is put together, and works well together as a unit, but also has great refutation and a solid framework to the round. I also value speaking more here than at other events because a team that enunciates and has pauses in the right areas is a team for me that speaks great. Like Parli, I am more of a flow judge, but more accommodating to what is going on in the structure of this event. But overall, if you speak clearly, have great points that go with my flow, and you all work cohesively as a team, you have my ballot.
In general, what I value is a good speaker who is polite and fair, but also suited to their event, meaning debate events can argue well, informative events inform me as a judge, etc. Also, I don't particularly appreciate spreading in any event, so I will not tolerate that. I am not scared to drop you if you are rude because regardless of the event, everyone should have respect for each other as basic human beings. But, just to wrap things up, I want you to be passionate about what you are talking about and convey that passion to me. Best of luck!
First, arguments must contain reasons
Second, they must contain reasons that don’t contradict each other or assume the truth of the conclusion. The reasons provided in an argument must be relevant to the truth or merit of the conclusion.
Thirdly, these reasons should be acceptable to a mature, rational adult. The reasons should be sufficient in number and weight to drive to the argument’s conclusion.
Lastly, the arguments should anticipate and address any serious criticisms proactively, to rebut the criticisms and blunt the force of any counterattacks.
Debaters can use these principles to critically evaluate the arguments of theirs, and thus arrive at independent, well thought-out conclusions.
First, arguments must contain reasons
Second, they must contain reasons that don’t contradict each other or assume the truth of the conclusion. The reasons provided in an argument must be relevant to the truth or merit of the conclusion.
Thirdly, these reasons should be acceptable to a mature, rational adult. The reasons should be sufficient in number and weight to drive to the argument’s conclusion.
Lastly, the arguments should anticipate and address any serious criticisms proactively, to rebut the criticisms and blunt the force of any counterattacks.
Debaters can use these principles to critically evaluate the arguments of theirs, and thus arrive at independent, well thought-out conclusions.
My name is Camille, I was a debater for 4 years, I got 2nd at TFA State in Worlds, 10th at TFA State in Foreign Extemp, I was a Nationals qualifier 3 years in a row, TFA state participant 4 years in a row in 4 different events: Worlds, FX, DX, OO, and then Impromptu as well once at state.
These are my paradigms for different events!
World Schools:
Style wise: I prefer clear speakers, quick and well formatted pois, I can handle the sass and passion but do it without coming off as mean, be kind and respectful to all opponents. little note- take at least 1-2 points please.
What I'm looking for: Weighing, clear warranting, characterizations of what your world realistically looks like early in the debate, consistency down the bench, and I also want to see charitable higher ground engagement.
What I don't like: Framing debates and definition debates (Figure it out early and move on), bringing up new information in the later speeches, switching stances midway through round, pois that are over 15 seconds, speeches that end 30 seconds over grace period, waving down a poi midway through if its not too long.
Basically, I want to see all cases be prepared with characterizations, and little case issues being figured out early in the round!
Extemp:
Style: Clear speaker, conversational, have good hand gestures, and good pacing.
Speech: I love sources, so I would love to hear lots of them! Make sure you state a clear answer if that's what the topic asks you to do, and have good points that don't bleed into one another.
I have been debating and judging since 2013. As adjudicator I served as DCA for Spanish Worlds Ecuador 2021, PRE- EUDC Madrid 2021, Peruvian National Schools Debating Championship 2021 and other 20 tournaments. As a judge: I judged at AISDC 2021 and other 30 tournaments in the spanish circuit, judging relevant instances such as the Peruvian National Universities Debating Championship open final. Served as Chief Adjudicator for Colombian National Tournament (Format: Lincoln Douglas) Was granted the best speaker award at CMUDE (Spanish Worlds) in 2022, Madrid, Spain
Heyoo and Howdy, Its Jomi,
I have been Competing, Coaching, and Judging for going on 8 years now and I'm 21 so that says a lot about my wild amount of commitment I have towards this activity.
Mainly competed and coached extemp and congress so that is where my best critiques would come from since those are the events that I know the most about, however, I am proficient in knowing PF and LD since I have judged tons of elimination rounds for those events and have friends in the events so they teach me the game.
I would say no matter the event it always comes down to three solid principles for me
Logic without evidence
Quality of evidence
Speaking and execution of rhetoric
Logic without evidence meaning how solid on a logic understands deductive or inductive reasoning is the argument, to the point that at the least from a basic philosophical level can I consider that argument valid but not being true because that would require evidence.
Quality of evidence is what sets an argument to being a good argument because if your evidence is timely, relevant, and flows within the speech or case then that sets you apart from the round. Good evidence balances arguments, Bad Evidence breaks arguments
Speaking and execution of Rhetoric meaning simply how well are you conveying your speech and case in your delivery, even in Policy debate, if you want the judge to hear something import and round defining then you slow down and say it with conviction. How well do your voice and your inflections convey your narrative especially on the impact analysis which to me is the most important parts of arguments especially;y on a human level is to be important
Most of all, be respectful and courteous to your judges and especially to your opponents because if you are rude, condescending, sexist, racist, you know the deal if it's bad and I catch it, expect the worst result from me and expect for me to back it up. So just be a respectful person and we will be all good.
I'm a Blake debate alumna and now an assistant coach.
Worlds Schools debate was my main format, and I competed it for three years at the national level. Speech content: include the principle debate, rebuild / extend arguments from the first speech in the second speeches, and become more globalized for third and fourth speeches. Weigh - and early!! Speaking style: signpost.
As a secondary format, I competed in PF. I am very familiar with the format, and lay on most topics. Read dates, signpost, and I prefer cards / evidence over paraphrasing.
Be nice to each other! At the end of the day, debating is about learning and having fun.
EMAILS FOR EMAIL CHAINS: blakedocs@googlegroups.com and sierra@u.northwestern.edu
Background: I debated at Memorial High School in Houston for 3 years, graduating in 2018. I mainly competed in extemp in high school, and I qualified for TFA State in FX and the TOC in Extemp and Informative. I also qualified for Nationals in World Schools debate twice and reached the quarterfinals of World Schools in 2018. My main debate events were Public Forum and Congress, which I did on and off for the most part. I graduated from Harvard in 2022 with a degree in History, and I currently work for a LGBTQ rights nonprofit in Boston, MA.
I have judged on the TFA circuit in Texas since I graduated high school in 2018, judging disproportionately many tournaments in 2020-21 and then nearly every weekend in the 2022-23 school year. I consider myself most proficient at judging World Schools Debate and public speaking events, although I have of course judged many a round of LD or PF.
My email for any email chains is knfjudges@gmail.com.
WSD: Remember that WSD is not LD or PF, and I will not be "voting on the flow" the way that LD and PF judges do. I will generally try to stick to the 68-72 range for each speaker, although I've found myself going under that range more often than I've gone over. Of course, this means that you might not like my decision at the end of the day. To lessen the odds of that happening, here are some tips to maximize the chances of winning my ballot:
- For content: "The House" is understood to be the whole world unless specified otherwise. Therefore, your content score will not go above 28 unless you bring solid international examples to the table. Generally, the more empirical and the less hypothetical evidence you bring to the table, the better you'll tend to do.
- For style: I would say the easiest way to improve style points on my ballot is with speeches that have personality. Obviously, this will differ from speaker to speaker, but I have rewarded speakers who depart somewhat from the "clean speech without fluency errors" kind of model and bring humor, personal connections to the topic, anecdotes, etc. to the table.
- For strategy: Teams that are consistent down the bench, especially teams that have a consistent team line, will tend to do better in strategy. I also evaluate POIs here; generally, teams should take 2 POIs, usually at the transition between points that were elaborated on during the roadmap.
How would you describe WS Debate to someone else?
WSD is the prevailing international style of debate, where the debate changes every round, concerns issues on a global rather than a national scale, and invites teams to clash on the central set of issues presented at conversational pace rather than trying to win with tricks or arcane points.
What process, if any, do you utilize to take notes in debate?
I generally prefer to flow on paper with different colors of pens representing the two teams, although in a pinch, I will flow on Excel on my computer.
When evaluating the round, assuming both principle and practical arguments are advanced through the 3rd and Reply speeches, do you prefer one over the other? Explain.
I would say that, generally, a principled argument would carry my ballot - at the end of the day, if the team argues that I should care about the principle regardless of the practical effects, then I will probably buy that argument. That being said, I do not have any trouble discarding a principle argument where this type of framing is not employed. If a team advances a principle argument through the reply, but impacts it out to a practical impact, then I probably would not prefer the principle argument just because it is labeled a principled argument. If both teams advance principle arguments through to the reply, I would tend to evaluate the competing principle arguments first.
The WS Debate format requires the judge to consider both Content and Style as 40% each of the speaker’s overall score, while Strategy is 20%. How do you evaluate a speaker’s strategy?
Essentially, the question of strategy is whether the debater addressed the main arguments in the round. If they focus too much on dropped or irrelevant arguments, they would have a deduction in strategy. I also evaluate POIs here - if there is a lack of engagement in POIs, this category would be negatively impacted, whereas if a debater does particularly well with POIs, they might have this category bolstered. Finally, the team line also figures in my calculation here - a team with a consistent bench will do well in strategy, whereas a team with three speakers who feel like they're making separate and distinct speeches would not do well in strategy.
WS Debate is supposed to be delivered at a conversational pace. What category would you deduct points in if the speaker was going too fast?
Style.
WS Debate does not require evidence/cards to be read in the round. How do you evaluate competing claims if there is no evidence to read?
I tend to rely heavily on warrants and examples; a warranted argument will outweigh an unwarranted argument, and I will generally prefer advocacy with solid international examples rather than merely hypothetical points. Of course, the examples must support the point, rather than just being examples for their own sake.
How do you resolve model quibbles?
I tend to adopt a broad view - did the OPP's quibbles with the PROP's model successfully challenge their advocacy of the motion as a whole, or did the Prop's use of the model nonetheless prove the truth of the resolution despite the OPP quibbling with it? Frankly, I see a "quibble" as seeing the forest for the trees - in my mind, OPP teams should play hardball with the model proposed by the PROP.
How do you evaluate models vs. countermodels?
I would take a comparative worlds approach, but ultimately, look to whether either side either upholds or defeats the motion as a whole. The model vs. countermodel debate is not supposed to end up about the models - all models should be in service of each team's broader burden.
PF Debate: I want to see a clear claim/warrant/impact structure with clear weighing at the end of the day; I've frequently found myself wanting some brief framing analysis or meta-weighing throughout the round as well (especially on evidence quality and strength of link). I am not receptive to theory or kritikal arguments in PF (this includes disclosure theory, etc.). The more that the final speeches can give me clear voters and/or write my RFD for me, the better the round will turn out for you. Defense is not sticky (please carry it through the flow). Finally, please remember that this is public forum debate, not "shorter policy," so please avoid spreading, and touches of rhetoric are always welcome (and will be reflected in your speaker points).
LD Debate: I am open to hearing all kinds of arguments (I do not consider myself a traditional LD judge), but I simply ask that you explain your arguments well. If I cannot explain your argument in the RFD on the ballot, I will not vote for that argument. For Ks, make sure that the link is specific to the case and that the alt makes sense. I will warn you that I have heard many bad Ks in my life, and while I have voted for Ks in the past, that doesn't mean I automatically like every K that I hear. In addition, it's really no fun for anyone to hear rounds where the AFF has never heard of the K, and their only response is "the NEG doesn't have a value and a criterion so we should win." So try to remain respectful of your opponents as well.
Repeated from PF but... I really appreciate good meta-weighing (especially on evidence quality and strength of link), and the more that the final speeches can give me clear voters and/or write my RFD for me, the better the round will turn out for you.
Congress: I would say that I prefer content over presentation. When evaluating content, I look to the type of speech being given (constructive, rebuttal, and crystallization) and my expectations for each type of speech... Unfortunately, I have found that there are many constructive speeches given later and later in the chamber, and many so-called rebuttal or crystallization speeches that neither rebut nor crystallize. Please, please, please remember that this is congressional DEBATE and not congressional soapbox. I love clash and I hate repetitious arguments.
Relatedly, I really detest when chambers need to take in-house recesses at the beginning of items because nobody is prepared to debate. I believe that I have somewhat contributed to this problem by stating that I prefer well elucidated speeches over speeches that were extemped in the chamber. To be fair, I don't want to hear these speeches for the sake of giving a speech, but I am now of the belief that I should reward the representatives who are actually prepared to debate in my rankings. So do with that what you will.
Public Speaking: In extemp, make sure you answer the question in a well structured manner. Sources are also important to me; I read both foreign and domestic news on a regular basis, and BSing a speech is not the way to win my ballot. (For the record: I have checked sources that sounded fishy, and I have tanked speakers who have egregiously misrepresented sources. Misremembered the date or the publication for a source? Fine, I've done that before, and I'll give you the benefit of the doubt! Told me that Boko Haram has attacked Egypt or that a New York Times editorial praised El Salvador's Bitcoin experiment when, in fact, it panned it? Not OK!)
For all events, I enjoy humor; for the two platform events, I also like to hear a personal connection to the topic throughout the speech, as well as unique takes on common topics. Please elucidate the stakes for your speech so we know why it's important that we listen to you for 10 minutes about a given topic.
Interp: Contestants should not try to change their pieces for my ballot, but here are a few things. For all events: Does the introduction adequately contextualize the piece, and does it lay out the societal critique the piece brings to the table? Does the cutting have a clear narrative arc? Does the teaser adequately tease the piece? For DI: Do you have a range of emotions (positive)? Do you yell as a substitute for other emotions (negative)? For HI: Is the piece funny? Does the piece add to a societal conversation about its topic, or is it just comedy? For POI: Does the program's narrative make sense? Are the characters adequately distinguished from each other, and do the transitions make sense?
Hello!
I'm a Canadian with plenty of experience in WSDC and BP, so I'm familiar with round expectations and most buzzwords that might be used. With that being said, I prefer clearer speeches that rely less on technical jargon and more on clean analysis.
Here are some other things I look for:
- Quality > Quantity: Please don't laundry list reasons why your argument might be true. One good reason will be much more convincing than 5 confusing reasons.
- Style: While I don't award wins/losses based on style, I do appreciate it, and good rhetoric can go a long way in making an argument more compelling.
- Weighing: Clear impacts and weighing metrics will make all of our jobs easier! If you explain why each argument matters (especially relative to other arguments), the debates will be cleaner, and I will be much happier when I deliberate.
I am a career Adjudicator experienced in various formats of debating such as British Parliamentary, World Schools, Asian Parliamentary, Australs, Public Forum, Policy debate and several others.
Please be respectful to other debaters while speaking because I am very strict in implementing rules because I always want all debaters to feel comfortable in their debate rooms despite meeting people from different backgrounds and beliefs.
Hiii!!! My name is Rubick (or Rubi for short) and I really enjoy judging speech and debate rounds. I am more of a debater but I also enjoy a good speech/interp round. I did debate all four years of high school and mainly focused on WSD (with a side of extemp), so that is what I am the most comfortable with. If I am judging a round, there are a few things that I am looking for;
In World Schools Debate
1. Which team proves and justifies their side the most? Making sure you prove your arguments to be true is highly important as it gives me an idea of what your side looks like. It also proves that you are able to defend your side and outweigh your arguments.
2. Provide framework and characterization for your side. It helps to know what to look for in your arguments and case.
3. If you have a principle argument, explain why your argument is true and how it can be fulfilled. If you have a practical argument, make sure to give links to your argument and clear impacts. You should be able to use your arguments and compare them to your opponents. Don't tell me their argument is non-unique without telling me why. Or don't tell me your arguments are better than your opponents without telling me why. Keep in mind that there is always a WHY to an argument. Always make sure to weigh your arguments!
4. If your speech is organized and there is clear signposting then it is easy for me to follow what you are saying. With that being said, it doesn't mean I will prioritize style over content but it can help you get more points. Make sure to sound conversational and not like you are reading off a paper. Try to engage with your opponents during refutation or during POIs. It should feel consistent throughout the bench and like every speaker is doing what they are supposed to do. Should not be like speaker 3 bringing up information to salvage the round that should have been brought by speaker 2 which by then might be too late and wouldn't really count anymore.
5. Your POIs should be strategic. Make sure to try to ask POIs during every speech and try to take 1-2 throughout your speeches. A lack of POIs can look like a lack of engagement with your opponents. This doesn't mean you should be barricading your opponents with POIs, you must always be considerate.
Overall, make sure to have fun and enjoy the debate. I expect everyone to be nice and respectful during the round at all times.
In PF/LF
Although I am no expert, I have a couple of years of experience judging and a few times participating in either event.
PF: I like to see argumentation. Which side best utilizes the most to respond to their opponents? It also means having well-developed arguments that have warrants and impact. I also look to see if there is interaction or clash. How can you explicitly respond to an argument made by your opponent? Otherwise, the unaddressed argument will take the higher ground. Keep in mind how you respond to an argument and how you discredit your opponent’s arguments. This will help me see who is advancing the most significant arguments in the round. Since this is a team event, I also look for team balance. Make sure team effort between partners is noticeable. There should be consistency between the two, make sure both bring the same rebuttal or almost the same. I should not hear new arguments during the last few speeches. Lastly, I would prefer no spreading, but if you normally talk fast, just try your best to ensure that whatever you say is understandable.
LD: I will vote based on the debater most successful in protecting their side. Regarding the structure of argumentation, I look for who is the better debater by advancing ideas while also engaging in their opponent’s argument. I enjoy good delivery, warrant, and impact. When it comes to framework-level argumentation, I want to know why your framework makes you win, and respond to the framework always; What do you value? What is your value criterion? Which framework is best to evaluate the arguments? I want you to make sure you explain your side and engage with your opponents as much as possible. At the end of the round, I am voting for the right side because of how much you tried to persuade me and how much you showed me your side outweighs the other.
In Speech/Interp events:
Extemp: Although I know you only have 30 minutes to research and memorize a speech and it can be very challenging for some, (trust me, I struggled with this event too) I want you to try your best to inform me or persuade me of whatever it is that you are speaking about. Your speech should be easy to follow. Have a beginning, middle, and end. I love a good intro that makes me want to listen to more, even better if you can tie it up with your conclusion and your arguments should help you answer the question you are given. After your speech, I want to feel like I just learned something new even if it is about an event that has been talked about for years now. First and foremost, be confident! Nothing else matters if you yourself don't feel good about what you are doing.
Others: Have fun while you are sharing a story. Make sure to feel confident and know you gave it your all. I might not know much but I know these might be stories from real-life people and you should make sure you are not just telling a story but teaching your audience why this story or moment is important. Most importantly, be yourself and stay true to who you are.
Regardless of the event, I will always enjoy a good round. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to my personal email at rubickhernandez@gmail.com
PF
Background: I've been debating public forum for 7 years. I'm currently a sophomore at Boston College.
I'm a flow judge. Please make sure to flush out your impacts for me, especially in final focus. I don't want to do your weighing for you.
If you're going to spread, that's fine, just let me know before you start speaking.
I don't flow cross, but I do listen to them, so make sure you're responding to your opponents clearly.
Please respect each other in round, especially during cross-examination. If you're rude to your opponents, you're not going to get good speaks, and you're probably going to get dropped.
Any type of arguments is okay with me, just make sure that you have clear link chains and impacts.
I'm tech > truth
Hi there, whoever is participating in Debate tournaments, Judges and debaters:
I'm a casual person, especially in debate. From my past experiences with the junior teams, I usually do my best to forget the prompt and listen to the kid's thoughts. (Personally, I believe that we all hold a bias the second we see the prompt. we are human at the end of the day.)
I want to know what you want me to listen to and follow! Make me think! Give me wild ideas that you know no one will ever say!
Wherever I judge, I want to make it a safe environment for both the debaters and judges. So that means. please respect each other.
Please work with your team and trust them, I do look for consistency in speeches.
My special preferences: I do look for deeper and different thoughts, giving me details that can affect my decision. I look for quality more than quantity. Give me some examples, real or imagined (as long as they are logical).
Background: Been debating all my life across multiple formats.
Appreciates:
- Exhaustive logical arguments, should be complete.
- Well-targetted rebuttals that display the speakers' ability to identify the core components of their opponents' cases
- Direct comparatives (our case vs their case) that display the speakers' ability to listen to and comprehend their opponents' cases in addition to pushing their own.
My credentials include:
- Open Best Speaker, Uhuru Worlds Debating Championship 2023
- Open PQF, Western IV 2023 and ESL Finals, Western IV 2022
I appreciate that debaters speak clearly and at a slower pace, with well articulated speech. I prefer evidence based arguments.
I judge based on the given arguments and how well they are backed up by analysis. Also, engagement and refutations are equally important.
Hii! I’m currently a freshman at Columbia University majoring in Political Science-Economics (at least I hope so haha). I competed primarily in World Schools, with a side hustle in Extemp. I was ranked #10 in the nation for worlds and was part of the Texas Debate Team.
WSD
I’ve competed in every speaker position so I understand most norms/expectations in this format. With that being said, these are what I value in the round:
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Clear argumentation and impact (i.e. link chain, warranting, examples are all reasonable and well-explained). Do not assume why your argument is important. Explicitly explain why I should care. I also need rational reasoning as to why your argument is realistic and applicable to the world. However, this doesn’t mean an excess reliance on examples. You just need to explain why actors/stakeholders usually act that way.
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Sign-posting (Organization is a crucial element in elevating your style and content. Signpost makes sure that we’re both on the same page.
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Crystallization and Weighing. The hardest part of the RFD is deciding the winner (in most cases). To make my job easier, you must engage with your opponent’s argumentation (through refutation or clash). When weighing, you must be charitable (i.e. you can’t compare your highest ground to their lowest ground; it doesn’t help my decision). The latter half of the debate should be spent on crystalizing clashes and explaining why your side outweighs them.
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Consistent Narrative. Crafting a central narrative around your bench is crucial to elevating your content and strategy. Please do not contradict/throw your teammates under the bus. Make sure you guys communicate team strategy before the round.
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Engagement in the debate. This isn’t just offering POIs and accepting them. It’s being respectful towards everyone in the debate. I also encourage bench communication (but don’t be excessively loud).
On the other hand, I will dock speaks/get very annoyed at any of these:
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Framing debates. Models and definition disagreements should be resolved by the second speech at the latest. I am a rational judge and will accept the fairest interpretations for both sides.
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Barricading with POIs.
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Unengagement. Please make sure you clash with your opponents. Also treading the middle ground to co-op your opponents’ arguments makes the debate incredibly hard to adjudicate and doesn’t lead to fruitful discourse. There are some instances where the middle ground can be used, but I will need explicit clarification on what is your uniqueness.
Besides that, have fun and be nice to each other. My email is chinh.le@columbia.edu if you have any questions.
Hello, my name is Eric Lee, and I'm currently in my second year of University at the University of Calgary. I'm relatively new to judging but have experience judging with the 37th Annual Stanford Invitational.
When judging a debate or speech, I examine the effectiveness of the speech as well as how persuasive the contestants are during the debate. I look for effective speaking skills and how they contribute to how convincing the argumentation is to both me and the other judges around me. I ask myself questions of whether the speech was convincing to not only myself but to the average listener or judge who may hear the arguments and how effectively they are communicated to decide whether a team or a contestant has managed to convince me of their way of thinking in the debate, and has my vote for the debate.
In short, I'm looking for Teams that can concisely communicate their stance and maintain that consistency when arguing and refuting points.
Complex argumentation can throw me off at times, which during the nature of a debate is alright, but simplifying complicated arguments will help me in the long run, and likewise, the judging. Just make sure you don't oversimplify your (or your opponent's arguments) down to their components (Basic Example: Music is just a bunch of people hitting instruments together and singing about stuff). I don't like that.
For TFA State:
Interp: I am a pretty open minded judge when it comes to judging interp overall but there are a few things I look for in performances. Creativity and honesty will always be the most rewarded in my book because it is why we do what we do at the end of the day. Showcasing your own interpretation, but staying true to the core of the story is important to me. Character development and emotional shifts are super important especially over a digital platform to keeping us engaged with the story and showing us the meaning behind the words. Have fun with the choices you make as long as they are PURPOSEFUL, doing something that distracts rather than enhances makes us lose connection between what is happening in the story.
Speaking/Extemp: Big thing is show your own unique style and approach to speaking because this is what separates you from other. I am a big fan of humor, but PLEASE, I BEG do not make it feel forced or this is just awkward for both of us. In terms of depth of the speech, I like more than just surface level arguments and I want to see you get to the higher end issues and core problems effectively. Structure is important obviously to make sure we can connect all of the ideas and know how you are getting to what you are wanting to. Finally, have variation in your delivery, it is important to showcase the different levels and power of your arguments and statements and so we should feel very engaged with how you are saying and what you are saying.
Worlds School Debate:
School affiliation/s : Northwest High School
Hired (yes/no) : Hired for WSD
High School Affiliation if graduated within last five years (required): Northwest High School
Currently enrolled in college? (required) If yes, affiliation? No
Years Judging/Coaching (required) I have been judging for 5- 6 years.
Years of Experience Judging any Speech/Debate Event (required)
I pretty much started off my first year judging in interp and PF and then slowly incorporated all other forms of debate the following year.
Rounds Judged in World School Debate this year (required): Since August I have judged about 40 world school rounds around Texas.
Check all that apply
__x___I judge WS regularly on the local level
_____I judge WS at national level tournaments
_____I occasionally judge WS Debate
_____I have not judged WS Debate this year but have before
_____I have never judged WS Debate
Rounds judged in other events this year : 75 rounds including PF, LD, Interp, Speaking, and Congress.
Check all that apply
__x__ Congress
_x___ PF
__x__ LD
____ Policy
_x___ Extemp/OO/Info
__x__ DI/HI/Duo/POI
____ I have not judged this year
____ I have not judged before
Have you chaired a WS round before?
I have chaired multiple WS rounds before locally.
What does chairing a round involve?
Chairing a round basically is keeping the round in order and ensuring a productive and efficient debate. The chair is in charge of calling up the speakers, leading the RFD for the panel, making sure people do not ask questions during protected time (which I discuss students should keep their own timer at the beginning so we do not have this issue), and making sure a fair debate is occurring.
How would you describe WS Debate to someone else?
I would describe WSD as a form of debate in which you are arguing ideas and issues to show which side of the motion is the most logical. This is way different than Americanized debate where theory and jargon is utilized more, so it is focusing on the core issues of the debate. Worlds is suppose to make sense to anyone who is listening to the debate and therefore the arguments should make rationale sense to anybody.
What process, if any, do you utilize to take notes in debate?
I am fortunate enough to have a full setup for my computer. I have two monitors and on the main monitor I watch the debate, and the second monitor has my tabroom ballot where I am writing notes over each speech and speaker. I also in front of me use a notebook to flow the debate to make sure I keep up with what is being said in the round.
When evaluating the round, assuming both principle and practical arguments are advanced through the 3rd and Reply speeches, do you prefer one over the other? Explain.
This just simply depends on the topic itself. I am pretty open minded when it comes to arguments and do not have a personal preference as long as it is discussed why you chose what to advocate for. This clarity is needed to really emphasize why that approached is needed and it's on the debaters to tell me why it is preferable.
The WS Debate format requires the judge to consider both Content and Style as 40% each of the speaker’s overall score, while Strategy is 20%. How do you evaluate a speaker’s strategy?
I think strategy usually is overlooked in terms of how you want structure arguments. A speaker's strategy is how do you connect the claims you present and how you word things in order to be effective in elaborating on arguments presented by the other side. Picking the right way to argue things and how you say it are definitely things to be aware of for your strategy.
WS Debate is supposed to be delivered at a conversational pace. What category would you deduct points in if the speaker was going too fast?
First, I am glad to have not judged a WSD where someone was spreading, so let's keep it that way hopefully. If someone is just not effective with their speed and tone I usually deduct points from their style.
WS Debate does not require evidence/cards to be read in the round. How do you evaluate competing claims if there is no evidence to read?
As silly as it may sound, I usually vote on simply what makes sense. Since we do not have to have the 20 minutes of calling for cards (thankfully), I simply view whos reasoning and rationale makes the most sense towards the topic and arguments presented in the round. Show me your thought process through your speech and it usually comes down to who can prove their claims in a clear manner, rather than the throw everything at the wall and see what sticks strategy.
How do you evaluate models vs. countermodels?
I look at how effective and clear some model is to make sure it sets the foundation for your ideas. Make sure you think through your model to answer any potential questions individuals may have about it. I do not think all motions need a model or countermodel, so just make sure if you use one there is a purpose to it.
I will take and assess argument based on its strength, on the truthfulness of the argument and how well established the process of explanation, also on how important and impactfull is the argument on the debate and to be as comparative as possible. I would also appreciate linear analysis with the spirit of the motions, frameworks and examples given, also clarity of speech delivery for maximum understanding. I would also highly appreciate engagefull debate, with well analyzed, concise and on-point rebuttal, and to not ignore your opposing bench case.
I'm a Canadian university debater with a background in British Parliamentary debate, and that naturally colours my preferences in terms of argumentation - although I am generally quite amenable to the expectations of the particular format I am adjudicating. I find argumentation that is well substantiated with structural analysis over examples to be more compelling. I favoiur terminal impacts that are utilitarian in nature over broad claims of principle harms, although if principle arguments are presented I prefer if they are weighed with clear appeals to moral intuition in order to give a metric by which they are adjudicated. Style, which I weigh appropriately in contexts where that is the expectation such as WSDC, I value less highly than argumentation and am amenable to a wide range of rhetorical styles.
Hello!
I am Esther Olamide Olayinka, a graduate of University of Ilorin Nigeria. I am an advanced level judge and debater with over 2 years involvement in debating. In these years, I have experienced/ participated in over 200 rounds of debating in BP, LD, WSDC, AP, PF and Policy Debates.
I have no conflicts and you can always contact me through olamideakanbi2000@gmail.com
Simply, I value and take note of arguments that are well analysed and impacted. I don't really have a preference for speaking styles or speed as long as you're comfortable with it and your arguments doesn't violate equity policies. Please within rounds, ensure you keep to time, abide by the tournament's policies and respect both I and other speakers in your room.
Finally, I find comparative arguments to be very persuasive. Good luck in your rounds. Thank you!
I'm Gerson Oviedo Soto, a 20-year-old college student from Lima University and I've been interested/involved in judging Speech and Debate since I started my career as a debater (2 years and a half ago) and specially focused on BP and WSDC tournaments to provide all the feedback I can to school students in strategy, style and to remain motivated to continue participating in these wonderful sports that give us a unique opportunity to raise our voices around all the world, to all the circuits, even the LatAm circuit which I come from.
What I'm looking for in a debate:
Under any condition I'll let students attack or discriminate others and I'll reach to an equity officer as soon as possible, it's truly important to maintain the order and respect all the time, we all can win a debate and continue the discussion free of anger, with no reason to attack the person instead of the argument. Equity is important to learn, not to punish, no one should ever fear to talk to the Equity team, so in case someone has to approach to Equity or talk to them, is not to penalize your behavior, but instead to improve it and avoid it as well.
I am very unwilling to accept or believe in an argument that contains misogynistic, sexist, xenophobic, homophobic, or any other kind of premises that threaten the integrity of people's protected identity or attributes. For me, such arguments tend to be very unpersuasive.
Speaking fast is okay, but please ensure that it does not reach to the point of being completely unintelligible, not because I'm going to give you an automatic loss, but instead I'm going to be uncapable of taking notes and that means nuances or some explanations might be missed.
Style is considered important, although I do believe that the most valuable part of an speech is the argument and its content, so for me the style is not a criteria to define a winning team/speaker, I take style as an implicit benefit to demonstrate an argument.
Speech Judging: I can judge any speech event across all levels!
I would sincerely appreciate if students could self time, so I can prioritize taking notes.
School affiliation/s - please indicate all - None
Hired - yes
If HIRED - what schools/programs in Texas do you work with if any: none
High School Affiliation if graduated within last five years - n/a
Please list ANY schools that you would need to be coded/conflicted against - none
Currently enrolled in college? grad school University of Texas at Dallas
College Speech and Debate Experience - parliamentary debate
Years Judging/Coaching - 4
Years of Experience Judging any Speech/Debate Event - 25
Rounds Judged in World School Debate this year - lots
Check all that apply
_XX___I judge WS regularly on the local level
_XX__I judge WS at national level tournaments
Rounds judged in other events this year
xx_ PF
xx__ LD
xx__ Extemp/OO/Info
xx__ DI/HI/Duo/POI
Have you chaired a WS round before? yes
What does chairing a round involve? facilitating between speeches
How would you describe WS Debate to someone else? equal burdens
What process, if any, do you utilize to take notes in debate? flow
When evaluating the round, assuming both principle and practical arguments are advanced through the 3rd and Reply speeches, do you prefer one over the other? Explain. I think there needs to be a balance of both.
The WS Debate format requires the judge to consider both Content and Style as 40% each of the speaker’s overall score, while Strategy is 20%. How do you evaluate a speaker’s strategy? for strategy it's a matter of addressing the arguments in the round and how well they adhere to the norms of their speech order.
WS Debate is supposed to be delivered at a conversational pace. What category would you deduct points in if the speaker was going too fast? style
WS Debate does not require evidence/cards to be read in the round. How do you evaluate competing claims if there is no evidence to read? which side presents more compelling logical warrants as to why something is true.
How do you resolve model quibbles? whichever side does a better job of explaining why we should prefer theirs
How do you evaluate models vs. countermodels? whichever side does a better job of explaining why we should prefer theirs
*updated 10/17/20*
Hi, welcome to my 30 second tutorial called, 'Answering Arguments Wins Debates.' Notice I didn't say 'repeating arguments wins debates,' because it doesn't. You have to listen to your opponent's argument, and then craft a response that shows why your side of the resolution is comparatively better regarding this issue. Telling me their argument isn't well-warranted isn't enough. You have to provide me with a warrant for why your side of the debate wins that point.
Now onto the stuff about me...
NO SPEED IN DEBATE. If it's faster than you would talk to a parent or teacher, don't do it. I will say clear once, then I will take off speaker points if I have to say clear again. I find speed problematic for two reasons. 1) it does not promote an inclusive debate space, because participants who are new or rarely compete cannot truly participate. 2) it is completely ableist to assume all of your competitors and judges will be able to meaningfully understand your speech. A decade ago I experienced a bipolar break, and since then my brain doesn't work as fast, and my ear-to-brain interaction isn't what it used to be. That doesn't mean I am stupid. It just means that I need to hear things at a normal, conversational speed.
***Whether it's prelims or elims of LD, PF, or worlds, at the point that you disregard my ability to participate in the round, you will not win my ballot. You might think you can win the other two ballots in an elim round, but it's not a great idea to have a 50% chance of winning/50% chance of winning/0% chance of winning when you could go slower and have 50% chance of winning each judge.*** Please note that I rarely am put in policy rounds, but sometimes I am needed. In prelims I expect a slower round. In elims, I will not be offended if you go your regular speed, but you have a greater chance of winning my ballot by going slower, as pointed out above. If you are in LD, PF, or worlds I WILL be offended if you go faster than my preference, and offending judges is not a great look.
In terms of argumentation, I will consider anything that isn't offensive. If you're trying to make an argument based on debate jargon explain it to me. Just because you think you sound cool saying something doesn't mean I am going to vote on it. I do not vote off tricks on the flow. Not every dropped argument actually matters. On the flipside, don't ignore arguments. LISTEN to your opponent. Respond to them.
I vote more on the big picture - overall impacts, overall strategy. I want to see you show why your side of the resolution is comparatively better than your opponent's. I do not like overwrought impacts. I am going to buy the impact about a million people that has a high probability of happening and a strong link chain over an existential impact that has a shady link story. If you think your opponent's impact is ridiculous, I probably do, too. Point that out to me so I can vote on yours instead. Every time a debater makes an argument that extinction level impacts have a zero percent probability, an angel gets its wings and Tinkerbell can fly again. You want to save flying paranormal creatures, don't you? Then be the person who isn't impacting to extinction.
Lastly, be respectful of me and of your opponent. If I am cringing by how rude you are in CX, you won't be getting high speaks. I don't vote for bullies. I vote for debaters. If you have questions about how to get better after the round, you can ask me. If you want to re-debate the round, I will not be tolerant. You had a chance to communicate to me, and if you lost, you lost. I am not going to change my mind, and arguing with me will just mean I will be in a bad mood if I ever have to judge you again. I judge often enough you want to be the person I smile when I see.
In Moore's judging paradigm, the emphasis is on creating a debate environment that values clarity, fairness, and innovative thinking. The guidelines are as follows:
1. **No Spreading:**
- Avoid rapid-fire delivery or excessive speed. Prioritize clear and deliberate communication over speed.
2. **No New Arguments in the 3rd/Reply Worlds:**
- Maintain fairness by refraining from introducing new arguments in the final speeches or replies. Focus on developing existing points and responding to opponent positions... You will automatically lose.
4. **No Debate Jargon: In WORLDS!**
- Communicate in a manner accessible to everyone. Minimize the use of specialized debate terminology to ensure clarity for all participants and judges.
5. **Lower Speaks for Lack of Clarity:**
- Clear and articulate communication is paramount. If a speech lacks clarity or is difficult to understand, it may result in lower speaker points.
6. **Talk Clearly, Enunciate:**
- Emphasize the importance of clear and articulate speech. Enunciate your words to enhance comprehension and ensure that your arguments are conveyed effectively.
7. **Do Not Call for Cards:**
- Avoid explicitly requesting evidence cards during the debate. Focus on the substance of arguments and analysis without relying on external sources.
8. Tired of Ism's as Arguments (Uniqueness Gets You Points): Yes racism is bad, we all agree, these arguments are no longer unique. they are dull and boring and you will lose me.
- Move beyond generic ism arguments. Emphasize uniqueness and provide nuanced analysis to strengthen your case.
9. **New Ideas:**
- Encourage participants to bring innovative and unique ideas to the debate. Foster creativity and originality in argumentation to enrich the discussion.
10. **No Political/Religious Polarization:**
- Maintain a balanced and respectful discussion. Refrain from engaging in extreme political or religious polarization, and focus on presenting well-reasoned and moderate perspectives.
By adhering to these guidelines, Moore aims to create a debate space that values clarity, fairness, and the exploration of fresh and unique ideas while discouraging practices such as spreading, excessive use of debate jargon, and political or religious polarization.
Debate speeches are meant to be persuasive and talk about the current status quo and the problems that different stakeholders face. Debate cases usually revolve around vulnerable stakeholders who are either going through or will go through difficulties as a result of a decision or situation. A well-constructed case will have sensible arguments backed by proper reasoning and importance. The speech should be concluded with impacts.
Hello everyone! I've had a some experience in debate from high school, but am not familiar in Worlds. I am persuaded by logic and speaking skills. Please remain respectful throughout the round and try to keep jargon to a minimum.
I listen to the debate in front of me and hope that you are respectful, courteous, and inclusive with how you approach your opponent and the debate space (ie: please don't argue in favor of indefensible things, like racism, sexism, etc.). I flow each round, but am also fine with you consolidating or responding to the big picture if that's what you want to do (and if you want to do a line by line instead, that's fine, too).
A little about me: I have been a part of the speech and debate community for over 20 years, as a competitor, coach, and now state association leader. I've coached and judged every event from LD to CX to WSD at all different levels. Have fun, learn a lot, and be a good community member in round and I will, too.
⬅️Also, that is my dog, Petey. He serves no purpose other than hey, you might be a little stressed reading paradigms before your round and *look at his little face*.
Current Coach at University HS Charter, former competitor at George Washington High School. NSDA national finalist, semifinalist, top speaker.
General:
Flow Judge. Will do flow judge things. Add me to the email chain, willryan@g.ucla.edu (or preferably, use speechdrop.net)
Generally tech>truth, but I have my limits. I will vote on truth before voting on presumption unless a team explicitly goes for a presumption warrant.
Keep it relatively reasonable on speed. This is an oral communication activity, understanding what you are saying is still very important. I accept speech docs for evidence, but won't flow off of them. I'll call clear if you are too fast.
I presume to whoever doesn't have the burden of proof. Explain why that's you if you want to win on presumption.
Debate is good and fairness is an intrinsic impact, and I am incredibly unlikely to pick up K teams that argue otherwise. These are views which I am highly unlikely to change.
Pet Peeves:
Don't say a debate is messy if it wasn't actually messy. I find it irrationally annoying.
Don't use cross to make arguments that you should be making in your speeches.
LD:
Consider me a moderately prog judge. I vastly prefer a smaller number of well warranted positions to a high number of blippy positions, so I'm much more likely to vote for 1NC strategies that focus on 1-2 offs max if you are going for the K or theory, or 3-4 offs if you factor in DAs. That's not a hard limit or anything, but be aware of the risks of me missing something for going for more than that.
T is a part of the game, be prepared to hit it. I'd prefer it is reserved for instances of genuinely unfair cases, but given that I am about 40 years behind the curve of T being read as a time suck I doubt that will ever happen.
I'm fine with K positions as long as they are reasonably accessible and well warranted. I have a pretty decent knowledge of postmodern and critical political philosophy and metaphysics (especially queer and feminist studies, I'm slightly less familiar with afropessimism and postcolonial studies). I'm less well versed with a lot of critical disciplines in IR and environmental studies in particular, so please be extra clear on a lot of these arguments if you are reading them. If you are reading some kind of K argument it needs to be absolutely crystal clear what exactly me voting does to your method or how it enacts any kind of change in the debate space. Lastly, I am incredibly skeptical of "K outweighs fairness" arguments, since presumably if the other team concedes the kritik, you expect me to vote for you-but if I don't value fairness I don't see why it should matter if I just arbitrarily decide to vote you down. That is to say that fairness is obviously maximally important to the debate space, so minimally be prepared to explain why your argument is fair.
Trichotomy is a voting issue that I am shocked more teams don't go for. If you run policy arguments on a value topic I'm highly sympathetic to T/Trichot responses.
PF:
Weigh.
Frontline in second rebuttal.
See LD for opinions on Kritiks and Theory. TLDR: Sure, why not.
IVI's seem very silly to me. Read a full theory shell if you want me to vote on some kind of procedural issue.
Please share speech docs before or after a speech so that we don't have to go through the burdensome process of calling for a dozen specific cards. If more than a single piece of evidence is called for please just share an entire doc of all of the cards you read in your speech.
WSD:
WSD is my favorite format so I will hold debaters to a high standard of performance. I will be very happy if I can see a nuanced debate and will likely award high points.
My stance on number of POIs is that 1st Prop sets the tone for the debate. So if 1st Prop takes 2 POIs, all other speeches should follow that trend. Same if 1st Prop only takes 1. I expect Opp teams to reciprocate at whatever level 1st Prop sets.
I marginally prefer all speeches to take 2 POIs, as I feel it makes the round more interactive and gives more clash during the Opp Bloc Speeches, but I will accommodate whatever the competitors set.
The prop should defend a reasonable interpretation of the motion and the opp should defend a reasonable inverse. Countermodels that are just "the model plus" are abusive and I will vote them down. Conversely, prop models that are just "we fiat the most perfect version of this policy ever because we said so" are very silly and I will likely not buy them.
Huge points for creative and unique argumentation. I hate when debates are stale and predictable, so unique stances can definitely give you a strategic edge. If you are willing to commit from 1st speeches to a creative position, you are likely to get major credit.
A good laugh is never unappreciated, and will bump style. Even a cringe worthy joke is likely going to be endearing, we are all nerds doing politics for fun, after all, so why not go for it :). (That said obviously know context, a super serious motion may not be the best time to crack a joke. All I'm saying is when applicable, try to have fun.)
I judge debates on the metrics agreed upon or best justified in the round. I prioritize principle consistency and logic when adjudicating.
I am an average, reasonable human with tonnes of debating experience, but I will not bring in my own knowledge. I am willing to be persuaded by your logic and delivery and am open to answering any questions you might have about how I reached the results.
I am a diamond level coach, who has been judging over 25 years. My background has intersected with most events throughout my experiences. I started competing on the college circuit in policy debate in the 90's and from there moved into Lincoln Douglas. After a year and a half I made the switch to platform events and I am nationally recognized in Duo, Dramatic, Poetry, Prose, POI, and After Dinner Speaking. TIFA which is the college version of TFA, I have been two time back to back Duo State Champion, as well as state Champion in Poetry.
In Debate:
Good debate is just good debate, so make sure you are clear, give weighing mechanism, link into the resolution, K's are fine but make them clear and understandable if you are going to include them. Speed is ok, just know when you need to slow down at times to solidify your case and make sure you are clear. Be assertive, not aggressive there is a line and make sure you know the difference. I also like purpose behind arguments, so please do not waste time just to run something because you think it is cool, trendy, or funny, as some adult may not share your thoughts on the choice. Debate is a wonderful event, that we have some many amazing tools to use, so please be respectful of this from of discourse.
World Schools is a great crossover event and it is one that I have been supporting at the national level for sometime, and very excited to see the growth of this event. That being said, I am a purist and I want it to stay World School Debate. I am looking for strong substantives, clear burdens, and for the model to be used properly and effectively, if you choose to provide one. Further, make sure you protect and defend the model. Please use POI's likewise be sure to give POI's, at least one to two. Use the key areas strategy, delivery, and content to ensure that you have left no points behind in the debate. You are building a narrative that must compel me to prefer your world view and meet your burden. Clash is crucial, so good coverage is essential down the bench.
Congress: I like well constructed speeches that are not read to me, referring to speech is fine, leave room for clash as this is debate, so I want to see you engage with the chamber. Stay active, the round is long so keep pressure with good questioning to stay relevant in the debate. I also welcome humor, if tasteful and done well.
Platform Speaking: (Extemporaneous, OO, Info, Imp)
I expect to solid speech structure with full introduction, transitions in body, and conclusion. The analysis should have some depth and should make a strong connection to your topic. Fluency should be smooth and if you have the occasional break, just work to not make it a big deal. I know being online can be difficult and there may be things that distract you where you are performing remotely, so that is understandable. Engage with the audience, your speech is for them, whether OO or Extemporaneous, you created a speech to tell it to us, so don't forget that. I know in Extemporaneous it can be tempting to have your speech on your screen, just know when you read a speech it is different and that connection with your audience can be lost, so I would rather have you perform to me, than read. Also, in Extemporaneous you need sources to ground your analysis, I also like a variety of good and challenging sources as opposed to the easiest finds. Pacing yourself is important, so is time management as you move through your points and finally do not rush. Three key things for me:
*Solid and fluent Delivery
*Clear Structure that supports your topic and adherence to time management throughout that structure
*Variety of sources, preference at least 5 as it is important to document and ground your analysis
Interpretation:
Interpretation is a personal favorite. I am open to all innovation and ways to bring your story to life. I do want to see a strong cutting that allows for you to build and reach a climax that will change your character in some way. If you are weaving POI, poetry, or Prose, make sure you structure your weave to give your program a climax that is clear. I have been a theatre director for over 20 years, so I love blocking and characterization as they are a part of breathing life into your interpretation. I like specificity and nuance, the text gives us so much as performers to work with. I like to see your performances as a collection of choices that ultimately allow the audience to experience the authenticity of your piece. I like purposeful gestures and mime work, but not just because it looked cool. I love moments, so make sure to be thoughtful in creating them, but hold them so we do not miss them whether in recording or live performance. At the end of the day, I am one of your biggest fans, so perform for me...allow me to get to know your character, to laugh, to cry, and most of all to experience why you chose to tell this story.
Interp Specifics:
Author's Intent-I am a writer and I believe it is important that the intent of the author is considered and respected. I do not mind if it a piece is cut, just that it doesn't violate the overall message of the author.
Introductions-I like to see purpose driven intros, that have pertinent information I need to know. I do not like introductions to exceed 30-45 seconds, or to become a performance art piece themselves. If I should know about conditions, flashbacks, time elapse that would help better inform my experience, then it should be in the introductions. If you choose to do an intro for humor only, and do not give us any information then I hope it is really funny, because you sacrificed the time you could have educated your audience. I am ok with humor in HI.
Blocking-Yes! Dream big and block bigger....I am ready for whatever you have come up with please engage us, build environments, and use your space in ALL events.
Binder work-Yes! See above, I love it! I want you to explore, so nothing is too much as long as well executed.
Characterization-I believe the story is paramount in any event. Please be thoughtful and authentic, organic over technical any day of the week. I like to be in the moment with you, so challenge yourself and your audience through believable and honest performance.
I competed in Extemp and Worlds for Plano West and graduated in 2023.
I'd like to see 1) warranting and 2) good clash. This means arguments with reasonable and well-explained impacts; i.e. tell me why your impact occurs, the extent to which it occurs (the degree of harm/benefit), and why it is unique to your side. In terms of clash, I will feel more compelled to vote for you if you weigh both mechanisms and impacts (e.g. why your mechanism is more likely or, assuming both mechanisms work, why your impact is more important).
If you have any questions, ask before round. Good luck!
I've judged in the Canadian University circuit for a while. I like cases with clear mechanisms that engage and weigh out against the other team. In general, I award wins to whichever team contributed to a higher quality of debate overall. Feel free to speak fast, although I might not flow everything if you try and speak as quickly as physically possible for a human to speak. I won't credit anything that isn't said in the round, so if a team hasn't engaged with one of your points please do point this out for me or else I may not notice. I will not read evidence unless it becomes a point of contention, so if evidence is bad please tell me why. Off-time road maps are appreciated. Any type of theory is completely fine with me.
Experienced in 3v3 Debate formats and BP
I don't appreciate (but will not dock) off-time road maps, kritiks, theory, and jargon.
My students have had a 100% success rate into entering USA Debate (currently occupying 3 of 31 spots). I used to travel around the world debating and winning (back when tournaments were only in-person). I am a coach at AlannahDebates.Com . I have judged finals for multiple tournaments. I would prefer it if you treated me like a lay judge.
WORLD SCHOOLS JUDGING
https://www.debating.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2006/08/NZ-Schools-Debating-How-to-Judge-Guide.pdf
PARLIAMENTARY JUDGING
https://www.csun.edu/~dgw61315/judging.html
If you are going to go Max Verstappen, I can effectively flow up to 350 WPM.
INDIVIDUAL SPEAKER SCORE
Content (40%): Depends on how many lines of flow I make for your speech. I don't flow any ineffective points.
Style (40%): Besides the linked WSD guide's description, I enjoy non-equity-violation jabs and jokes. Eg. saying your opponent's argument is as clear as your future is okay, saying your opponent's skin is as clear as your future is bad!
Strat (20%): Primarily how well you time/portion yourself. Any strategic actions such as consistent/effective POIs, not contradicting your teammate, strong framework, consideration to burden.