David Chamberlain
English Teacher and Director of Forensics - Claremont High School, CA
20 years coaching forensics. I usually judge Parliamentary debate at tournaments.

In Parli debate I don't like being bogged down in meta debating. Nor do I appreciate frivolous claims of abuse. I always hope for a clean, fun and spirited debate. I trust in the framer's intent and believe the debaters should too! Logic, wit and style are rewarded.

In PF debate I certainly do not appreciate speed and believe debaters must choose positions carefully being thoughtful of the time constraints of the event. This is the peoples' debate and should be presented as such.

In LD debate I prefer a more traditional debate round with a Value + Value Criterion/Standard that center around philosophical discussions of competing moral imperatives. I understand the trend now is for LD Debaters to advocate plans. I don't know if this is good for the activity. There's already a debate format that exclusively deals with plan debate. LD is not one-person policy debate.

Speed:
I can flow speed debate, but prefer that debate be an oratorical activity.

Theory/T:
I enjoy Theory debates. I don't know that I always understand them. I do count on the debaters being able to clearly understand and articulate any theory arguments to me so that I can be comfortable with my vote. I prefer rounds to be centered on substance, but there is a place for theory. I usually default to reasonability, and don't prefer the competing interpretations model. It takes something egregious for me to vote on T.

Points:
I usually start at a 27.0 and work my way up or down from there. Usually you have to be rude or unprepared to dip below the 27.0.

Counterplans:
I don't think it makes sense to operate a counterplan unless the Aff has presented a plan. If the Aff does go with a Plan debate, then a Counterplan is probably a good strategy. If not, then I don't understand how you can counter a plan that doesn't exist. If this is the debate you want to have, try Policy debate.

Critical Arguments:
The biggest problem with these is that often debaters don't understand their own message / criticism / literature. I feel they are arguments to be run almost exclusively on the Negative, must have a clear link, and a stable alternative that is more substantial than "do nothing", "vote neg", or "examine our ontology/epistemology".

Politics / DAs:
I really enjoy Political discussions, but again, LD is probably the wrong format of debate for the "political implications" of the "plan" that result in impacts to the "status quo" to be discussed.

Congressional Debate: Show a good understanding of the bills presented and make a clear argument of your stance. Engage in the debate with good questions that challenge opposing sides, and be prepared to answer questions form the opposing side that challenges your stance. Be confident in the arguments that you present, but also respectful to your opponents.

I value clear communication and appreciate a regular speaking speed. Please avoid spreading because if I can’t follow your speeches, I’m unable to judge you fairly as well. I also would really appreciate any and all acronyms to be explained clearly, even if it’s something that might be common, just to make sure I’m on the same page as you. Thank you!!!

This is only my second year coaching, so please consider me a lay judge with very little debate experience. It's best for you to not assume I have knowledge of the topic and to give as much background as possible. It's important for you to connect your arguments clearly, refute when necessary, and don't speak too rapidly or I may miss some of your points. I will take notes, but would appreciate you emphasizing what you want me to hear when it comes to your framework. I am more swayed by morality and mitigating lives lost than other "fancy" debate tricks. Simple language explaining why you should win could do more to get me on your side.

I ask that you remain respectful to your opponent and to me when I make my decision. Good luck!

Email: egonzalez@fjuhsd.org

Greeting debaters! I look forward to a day of engaged and informative debates. I expect debaters to remain professional and cordial despite the passionate positions they may be asked to take. I will listen carefully to arguments and maintain objectivity, checking my personal opinions and unconscious bias regarding the topic at the door. I will be noting each speaker's efforts regardless of whether they won the specific argument. Good luck and have a good day!

I always appreciate a well researched debate topic and structured arguments. Evidence is also important. However, contestants should not try to rush the opening simply because they have so much to say and there is so little time available.

I do pay attention to the presentation style, including strategic pauses, body language, and vocal variety used to stress the key points. Reading from you notes is acceptable, but if you enhance presentation by making eye contact with your opponent and audience, it is a plus.

Good luck, may the strongest win!

Do not read fast from your cards (meaning spreading is discouraged and disfavored). If I can't follow your speed read, it does not help your side.

Be articulate.

Make arguments easy to follow.