Last changed on
Wed June 26, 2024 at 8:18 AM CDT
Hi! I've had past experience with all speech events besides interpretation and informative, and I've done/do both Extemps, Public Forum, and Congress.
Extemp:
Delivery:
For online, just try and watch the camera. It's tempting to look at yourself to see how it is, but that makes your eyes look unfocused on the camera, and that'll raise suspicions.
I'm old, so I like Extemp Walk, but it isn't required.
Stutters aren't too big unless they're frequent, but swaying/pacing/fidgeting leaves a big mark about you in my head.
For a general style, don't act like you're completely formal; be slightly conversational, engage me and act like you know your topic.
Content:
ANSWER THE QUESTION PROPERLY! Don't duck or dodge around it.
Needs proper (sub)structure, analysis and relations to your umbrella are a must. Nothing too big in content preference.
I need sources, best 2 per point, with at least year if you can. Analyze statistics, don't just point them out.
If there's any hint of personal opinion when it isn't necessary (sexism, racism, etc) you aren't winning the round regardless of the rest of your speech.
PF:
Spreading is ok until it reaches the point where you aren't able to articulate 35% of your case/speech. Then the judges can't hear anything and it gets hard to judge.
Weigh clearly and specifically, I as a judge need to know exactly why I should vote you. Use juxtaposition directly between your case and that of your opponents.
Utilize prep time; hearing an unprepped rebuttal from a confident speaker isn't going to cut it for me, you can definitely do better if you use at least 10 seconds or so to collect your thoughts beforehand.
No thoughts on theory, Ks, etc.
You can ask questions but I'm not going to change my decision.
I'll do my best to give a verbal disclosure at the end of each round.
Public Speaking:
Confidence is key, any topic can win a round as long as it's presented persuasively and with sufficient research.
Mostly looking for the same delivery I look for in extemp, except stutters will be taken into account more seriously because of the nature of the event.
Congress:
Please don't spread.
Clash is key; I don't wanna watch a boring round.
If you are PO, I expect near flawless performance; you should know what you're doing.
If you're restating a previously brought up argument, add something to it. Don't just say it again for the sake of it.
LD:
I have experience but not as much as other events.
I'll mostly follow the same rules I have for PF, as the only noticeable difference is the number of debaters in the room.
For email chains or questions, reach me at abezhang9@gmail.com
Good luck and have fun!