National Speech and Debate Tournament

2024 — Des Moines, IA/US

David Farris Paradigm

Lincoln-Douglas
Lincoln Douglas Debate Judge Philosophy

Your experience with LD Debate (check all that apply)

Experienced LD judge

How many years have you judged LD debate?

2

How many LD rounds have you judged this year?

11-20

What is your preferred rate of delivery?

8/91 = Slow conversational style
9 = Rapid conversation speed
 

Does the rate of delivery weigh heavily in your decision?

N
 

Will you vote against a student solely for exceeding your preferred speed?

N

How important is the criterion in making your decision?

It may be a factor depending on its use in the round
 

Do you feel that a value and criterion are required elements of a case?

Y

Rebuttals and Crystallization

 

Voting issues should be given:

Either is acceptable
 

The use of jargon or technical language ("extend", "cross-apply", "turn", etc.) during rebuttals:

Is acceptable
 

Final rebuttals should include:

Voting issues
 

Voting issues are:

Not necessary

How do you decide the winner of the round?

I decide who is the winner of the most arguments in the round

How necessary do you feel the use of evidence (both analytical and empirical) is in the round?

7/91 = Not necessary
9 = Always necessary

Please describe your personal note-taking during the round

I write down the key arguments throughout the round
Additional remarks: Treating everyone with dignity is an important standard for myself and participants. My goal is facilitate an environment where competitors can bring their best to the debate. I look for structured arguments that build a solid case. For example in LD, I would look for the value, criterion and justifications. In selecting a winner I evaluate participants on their demonstrated skill in preparing and presenting their case. I do not mark people down for events or circumstances beyond their control. Please feel free to ask me questions.

Note: if you wish for your pronouns to appear the debaters you judge on text/email blasts, log into Tabroom, click Profile at top, and add them in the Pronouns field.