The Jon Fitzgerald Memorial Public Forum Debate League
2024 — NSDA Campus, MI/US
Public Forum Judge Paradigm List
All Paradigms: Show HideFor debate, I look for good arguments with clear evidence and analysis (very important) backing them up. I don't think just reading cards/evidence without explaining the links and connections between them is very useful. I value quality over quantity, but you should still give sufficient evidence. Speaking clearly is very much appreciated-- if I can't understand what you are saying, I can't flow it-- the same goes for speaker points.
Any sort of -isms or ad hominem attacks will not be tolerated. You should have basic respect for your opponents as well as the space around you. Please be civil during crossfires. Always ask your opponents if you can have a follow-up question. Please don't answer a question with another question or get really riled up during CX.
I look forward to good debate rounds where there is a lot of clashing and back and forth. While rebutting your opponent's claims is important, you have to flow through and defend your own arguments to win-- show me that especially in summary and final focus. Do lots of WEIGHING!! Tell me why I should vote for you and why your world would be better than the status quo.
If you read all of this, just say "boba" before the round so that I know you read my paradigm :)
1.Experience Level -I was not a high school debater myself. I competed in forensics 20 years ago and did well with it. This is my first year coaching and judging debate.
2.Preferences for Rate of Delivery and use of Jargon/Technical Language - I prefer a clear and conversational rate of delivery. I do not mind if it is fast(er) as long as you slow down and are clear when you state your framework, contentions, main argument, etc. This helps me to keep an accurate flow. If you are too fast or unclear then I have a hard time keeping up or I'm left wondering exactly your argument was.
I have found that jargon tends to somewhat distract from argumentation. Technical language is alright as long as it pertains to your argument and is used to help clarify rather than confuse.
3.Description of Personal Note Taking - When I flow I try to make sure that I at least get the framework, the contentions and the main/key arguments from each one. Those are the big things for me. I will also draw arrows from rebuttals to constructives or summaries to rebuttals, etc. to make sure that arguments are addressed/refuted and that no one drops one.
4.Argument over Style? or Style over Argument? or Argument and Style Equally? - I value structure and clarity. The less time I have to spend trying to catch up to or deciphering your arguments the more time I can spend actually analyzing the "meat and potatoes."
5.Specific Criteria I Consider - Were your frameworks, contentions, and arguments clearly stated and/or well defined? Were you able to show the impacts of each of your arguments? Did you clearly tie each argument or speech back to your framework? Did you address your opponents arguments without dropping them? The more systematic and methodical the better.
6.The Most Persuasive Speeches I Have Encountered So Far - Have had a clear framework and clearly stated arguments. They were not overcomplicated (2 contentions are good, 3 is alright, any more starts to get hard to keep straight). They addressed and refuted their opponents arguments in an orderly manner, and were able to tie everything together very clearly and succinctly in their summaries and final focuses.
7.Expectations for In-Round Conduct - We're all doing our best. Be respectful and friendly. Keep a cool head and try not to let yourself get carried away. It takes guts to get up there and do what you do. We've all experienced the dreaded freeze or blank, if that happens extend compassion and empathy where and if possible. I like to see sportsmanship after the round concludes. Handshakes, Fist Bumps, or other acknowledgements of "Thanks for Debating" between opponents and between competitors and myself are personally really appreciated.
Hey there
My name is Olowookere Ganiyat (she/her).Ihave experience in speaking and adjudicating at national, regional, and international levels in British Parliamentary, World Schools, Public Forum, LD, Asian Parliamentary, NSDA speech and debates, amongst other formats. I also have some experiences as a trainer and coach. So I very much understand the need to create a very empowering learning experience for participants and provide them with useful feedback. I am confident that I will be a good and impactful addition to your team of judges and educators.
Email address: ooganiya12@gmail.com
Conflicts: I don't have any
As a judge and educator, I prioritize creating an empowering learning environment for participants while providing valuable feedback. I value fairness, equity, and respectful engagement during discussions, and I encourage debaters to present their arguments thoughtfully and engage with opposing viewpoints respectfully.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION FOR ONLINE SETTINGS
In virtual debate settings, I emphasize clear and audible communication, I urge participants to ensure their microphone works well and to maintain an appropriate speaking pace.I understand that speakers often times have a lot of ideas to share during their speeches in a short stipulated time but please, don't speak excessively fast. Just as much as I would pay very close attention to speakers, I am most comfortable with audible and medium paced speeches.
Best wishes
Hello everyone! Here are just some things I'd want everyone to know before we start the round:
- Currently, I'm a varsity debater at West Bloomfield High School.
- Be respectful! I've seen and experienced disrespect during rounds and it's not acceptable. You shouldn't have to be disrespectful to get your point across.
- I don't mind speed, but please make sure you're enunciating your words (anything over 300 wpm is pushing it).
- Off-time road maps are kinda useless imo–if you're signposting you shouldn't have to do an off-time road map.
- Please include me in the evidence docs/email chains as well.
- If you have any questions before we start please let me know!!
Also, if you start your questions off with "Riddle me this.." during cross, I'll give you high speaker points. :)
REMEMBER ALWAYS TO HAVE FUN!!!!!!