I am a veteran science teacher who currently teaches AP Environmental Science and AP Physics as well as Earth and Space Science. However, this is my first year judging so please be patient with me if I make any newbee mistakes. In regards to fast speaking, on a 10 point scale from Eeyore to professional auctioneer I can usually follow along up to a 7, but may not understand you if you don't speak clearly or change topics without appropriate transitions. Finally, I may be unfamiliar with specific moral jargon so please explain any terms in your framework that aren't commonly used outside the context of LD debate. Finally, I appreciate a well organized and logical argument with clearly stated framework and contentions.

I'm a newer judge for debate, however, I'm familiar with the structure and some jargon. I'm fine with speed as long as you enunciate and your opponent and I are can understand you. As a competitor, it's your burden to prove why I should vote for you as well as why you're more correct. That being said, explain fully what you're talking about (don't assume that I know what you're talking about). I prefer that opponents fully extend arguments and impacts because that is what I'll be voting on at the end of the day. Overall, be polite (such as not being rude during questioning or disruptive during speeches) and explain uniquely why you should win.

This is my first year of judging for Speech and Debate and my first time judging Lincoln Douglas. However, I have not debated myself, but I have been training with the Speech and Debate coach of the Huntington High School team. I will be looking for a clear value and value criterion which backs up the resolution, as well as solid contentions which reinforce the value and value criterion. Never assume that as a judge I know what you are talking about in your case so explain the details clearly. Speed is fine as long as I, the judge, can understand every word you say, however if your opponent is not ok with speed than do not go for it, especially in a traditional LD round.

Hi!

My name is Kelly, I use she/they pronouns.

My main event was LD, but I've competed in many different speech and debate events. I coached LD while I was in high school and now. 

Across the board, no matter what type of debate you do, I expect you to be respectful to your fellow competitors, audience, and judge(s). Even if you make the best arguments, if you are disrespectful, it is unlikely that I will vote for you or I will deduct speaker points. A good and fair debate can still happen while maintaining respect. 

Be aware of your time. You should be keeping track of your own time during speeches. I will also be timing for official purposes, however, I should not have to stop you. In order to manage your time better, I would suggest signposting and using your prep time wisely.

I'm fine with spreading, I tend to be a fast talker myself; however, if you are speaking so fast that I cannot understand you then I won't be able to judge the round...So keep that in mind. It is better to say less and speak slower than to say more and speak so fast that nobody can understand you. 

While I do try to do my research about the topics so I have a general understanding before judging, I am definitely not doing the level of research that I used to when I was a competitor. It would be a good idea to avoid jargon or complex ideas unless you are going to explain them. Generally, most of your judges won't know much about the topics you're speaking on. It is easier to convince the judge if you are speaking in terms and explaining to them in ways that they can understand. You are trying to convince your judge and if your judge doesn't understand what you're talking about then they're probably not going to vote in your favor.

LD specifics:

The more evidence you have the better! Although, LD is a philosophical debate in some senses, facts, and evidence can and WILL bolster your arguments (make sure you are using credible sources though). 

Don't forget about your value and value criterion! This is the part of LD that makes LD unique. It should not just be stated at the beginning of your case and then never mentioned again. All of your contentions and arguments should link back to your value and value criterion. Framework debate is a good spot to have those more philosophical debates. Ultimately, your whole case is built on your framework, so if your framework is flawed, your opponent can make a good case against you. 

I love a good cx. This is the one point in the debate where you get to interact with your opponent so use it to your advantage! I want to see good leading questions. By CX I can usually tell who my ballot is going to. 

Ultimately just have fun! I'm excited to see what you all can do!