Judging PF

Students debate pro or con

Specific speech times + prep times are included on the ballot

Overall persuasive in nature

Students will flip for sides and 1st or 2nd speaker

You will have two teams debate before you: they will flip for sides and then determine who is pro/con and who is the 1st/2nd speaker. Then students will trade off for speeches and debate a general resolution.

The resolution will provide each team of two the opportunity to argue contemporary issues in a form that is accessible to a general audience.

Each team will try to convince a neutral judge that they have better reasons for their positions.

Some evidence should be used to support their points during the debate.

Debaters may choose to focus on practical issues, philosophical issues or a combination.

In all rounds of Public Forum Debate, debaters must, at a minimum orally deliver the author(s)’ name (last) and year of publication. Please see the debate evidence rules for further information and clarification.

Both teams are responsible for directly responding to arguments made by their opponents.

Prior to the round in the presence of the judge(s), a coin is tossed by one team and called by the other team. The team winning the flip may choose one of two options EITHER:

1. The SIDE of the topic to defend (pro or con) OR 2

. The SPEAKING POSITION they wish to have (begin or end the debate).

3. Once the coin toss winners select their favored option, the other team makes a choice within the remaining option and the debate begins.

PF Ballot With Example Comments  (Please note these list the old speaking times.)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G52B_3BzibupBQduMcsZS1Q4p0OJzr_a/view?usp=sharing