What is Big Questions?

Big Questions is a form of debate designed to open students’ minds and encourage them to engage in life discussion that may not align with their previously held beliefs. Whether or not students change their opinion, the rich experience of this debate event will advance their knowledge, comfort, and interest in learning more about the subject matter based on the intersection of science and philosophy.

The MHS Speech and Debate Team has received approval from our district/school and the National Speech and Debate Association to host this event April 20, 2024 at MacArthur High School, 4400 E Gore Blvd. Lawton, OK, 73507.

TOPIC:

Resolved: Belief in the supernatural is incompatible with belief in science.

Check out the Big Questions Topic Papers for an overview of the two topics proposed for the 2023-2024 season.

THIS IS NOT A NATIONAL QUALIFYING TOURNAMENT! THE WINNERS IN EACH DIVISION WILL RECEIVE CASH PRIZES, NSDA POINTS, BRAGGING RIGHTS AND TROPHIES, BUT THIS TOURNAMENT IS A FUNDRAISER/INTEREST-BUILDING EVENT THAT DOESN’T RESULT IN A QUALIFICATION FOR THE NATIONAL TOURNAMENT.

Essentially, we want students to try their hand at debate, do some research about an interesting topic and test their ideas through a series of rounds both arguing in favor of the topic and against the topic. Students will prepare and practice cases supporting and negating the topic ahead-of-time. A debate round involves presenting the case, defending it from attacks, attacking your opponent’s case and asking and answering questions. All levels of experience are welcome and have great chances for success, AND we are more than willing to train anyone who is new!

SCHEDULE:

March 28- After school workshops begin for all levels of competitors. Sessions will be from 3-5 p.m. at MHS. All participants are encouraged to create a tabroom.com account.

April 14- Registration due

April 20- We will have three rounds at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.;

break for lunch and tabulate results for a

1:30 semi-final and

3 p.m. final round.

Awards will be at 4:15 p.m.

We plan to host 1 on 1 and invite middle school students to participate if desired. We will use this year's topic. We have a donation for a cash prize for the winner. We might also tabulate a city sweepstakes award.

GOAL- 30 students to participate from at least three schools.

INFORMATION ABOUT THE FORMAT/TOPIC CAN BE FOUND HERE-

PARTICIPANTS WILL NEED:

• pre and post survey completion

• To participate in 3 rounds minimum

• To bring lunch or money to buy concessions (please let us know if you need help)

• Judges to accompany them. Parents can participate, but we ask they complete judge training here.

• We encourage business casual attire, but it’s not required

• Flowing paper, pencils, possibly a chromebook/computer and a copy of their case

REGISTRATION FORM:

If possible, create a tabroom.com account and register for the debate-580 Big Questions Cash Grab

Fill out here - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdO5cFsSDh5EKNjLHJnoxSeimd36HlfIIdz8Pa-emzZWIDgcg/viewform