Speech & Debate Information

S/D Tab:  Room 201

Judges Holding:  Room 201

Hospitality: 105

If you are interested in being a judge for this contest, please contact Melissa Witt at mwitt@ptisd.org. 

We use paper ballots. If the registration numbers do not support a contest, we will cancel it by October 30.  Please note any conflicts with the academic schedule when cross-registering. 

General Guidelines - Event rules are included below. Please note the following for general practice:

• Do not enter a competition room until a judge is present

• All debaters will adhere to the Rules of Evidence followed by all three circuits (UIL, TFA, and NSDA)

• Internet usage is permitted in all debate events, Congress & Extemp 

• Students may use phones as timers

• Judging expectations: provide clear feedback, reason for decision, and DO NOT use phone during rounds, except to keep time.

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UIL Interp - Prose/Poetry will be reader's choice. We will not be enforcing UIL category restrictions, but if you have questions about UIL categories or other documentation requirements we are happy to help. Time limit will be 7 minutes with 30-grace period. Students will not be disqualified but may be penalized for going over time. 

Extemp - We will offer Informative & Persuasive Extemp. Students will have 7 minutes to speak with no grace period. Students will not be disqualified but may be penalized for going over time.

Debate Events - 

• CX Debate - Resolved: The United States federal government should establish national health insurance in the United States. 

• LD - Resolved: The use of nuclear energy is compatible with environmental stewardship. 

• Congress - Items from Region 7 & 8 UIL Dockets: 

  • Prelims: TBD

  • Semis:  TBD 

  • Finals: TBD

If you drop after the October 30th deadline, you will forfeit registration fees. Additional fees equivalent to the registration fee may be assessed for late drops that significantly impact pairings. Please contact Melissa Witt (mwitt@ptisd.org) as soon as possible with any drops. Drops after 6:00 PM on Friday, November 6 should be texted to Melissa Witt.