For all debate

-> Speaker points reflect the argumentation and presentation of the debate, and awarded speaker points will reflect the overall round winner, the comparative performance of the debaters, and the overall presentation.

LD

-> I attach greater weight to values arguments than case arguments, and a well-argued value/value criterion will put a competitor in a much better position to claim the round.

-> Aff and neg both bear responsibility for advancing their own values and contentions in the face of clash. However, aff must always affirm and neg negate the resolution. Higher levels of clash will garner more speaker points.

-> Please present road signs and clearly state the tag lines of cards.

C/X

-> The aff has the burden of proof to advance the resolution. Neg can maintain status quo and successfully claim the round through negation.

-> Impact calculus is always appreciated, and clear taglines are essential in C/X. If the tag line is not clearly listed and I miss the argument being advanced, that is a serious problem that affects voters.

-> I weight dropped arguments more heavily in C/X than in LD.

kplunkett@stmdhs.org for cases/cards

Traditional judge, I prefer no spreading or Ks. I won't take off for them, but I encourage you not to! I have judged policy rounds but am by no means a policy judge, if it's possible to debate a little slower that's appreciated, but I understand that you may not have a case cut short enough to make that happen.

• The easiest way to earn speaks is to clarify the voting issues and prove how and why you outweigh. I'll weigh the round based on the criteria you give me, so be sure to give me a metaphorical rubric!
• I'm a tabula rasa, so I'll vote exactly how you tell me. Hit your framework/V/VCs early and often.
• I like to see claim-warrant-impact. I flow what you say, not what I think you mean.
• Spreading will not affect your speaks, but I prefer conversational speed and good delivery. Quality, not quantity, for arguments.
• Cards should be clearly cited and available for review should there be a conflict over source validity or context. Clipping will not be tolerated.
• Signpost - reference the contention # or subpoint in speeches and CX.
• CX is for questions, not rebuttals.

Hello!

I did not think I would be writing one of these anytime soon, but here I am!

I am a current student at LSU and debated for three years in high school, but have transitioned to more of an Extemp/Impromptu kind of guy. I also have a good grasp of acting events, but never did them myself.

For Debate Events:

Don't spread please, for my and your opponent's sake.

Articulate your case well in the 1AC and 1NC, with solid arguments and frameworks established for rebuttals.

Pre-Speech roadmaps are the best way to go, so you and your opponents don't get lost in the flow.

Have fun, be respectful, and be quick on your feet!

For IEs/Acting Events:

Most importantly: let your personality shine!

For memorized pieces, make sure it's clear for me to understand the piece and that you have a good grasp of it before you perform.

Extemp/Impromptu, seem well prepared and organized with your thoughts.

Always have an organized structure.

I will provide time signals, let me know whatever you prefer!

If you have any questions either before or after the round, please let me know, I'm here to help and am not your enemy!