Last changed on
Wed April 24, 2024 at 10:20 PM EDT
I come to the debate with a clean slate and imagine I have no prior knowledge on the topic, I expect debaters to be able to allow me to understand the topic by the end of the debate to make a clear choice.
In my opinion, the debate is used to look at both sides of the argument and perspectives of a topic
I expect debaters to provide logical arguments and back them up with evidence.
I want debaters to explain why topics are important and a step-by-step process in their argument leading to a conclusion.
Debaters should not leave gaps in logic that need to be filled to be able to understand how they have arrived at their conclusion
It is also important for debaters to explain why their argument matters and how the implied results of their argument will affect society.
good debater speaks clearly, and uses logical argumentation well, without becoming combative. True and accurate statements are highly valued. Rebuttal phases are used well and good points by the opposing team are all addressed. I prefer speakers to be clear and have a few excellent arguments to those speed speaking and trying to fit in as many mediocre arguments as possible.
For speech rounds, I'm looking for clear, enunciated speech with well-used pauses and intonation to help support the speaker's purpose.