As a judge, I believe in a balanced approach that values both technical skill and persuasive delivery. My focus is on how well you support your arguments with evidence, your logical reasoning, and your ability to communicate effectively.

Hi all,

I am a new judge andI prioritize several key elements during evaluations:

1. Clarity and Pace: Effective communication is crucial, so I expect speakers to articulate their points clearly and at a moderate pace. I encourage participants to enunciate each word and avoid speaking too fast, ensuring that their message is easily understandable to the audience and judges.

2. Content: While delivery is important, I also assess the substance of the speeches or arguments presented. I look for well-researched, insightful content that demonstrates a deep understanding of the topic at hand. Participants should provide relevant evidence, examples, and analysis to support their claims and effectively convey their message.

3. Organization: A well-structured speech or debate argument enhances clarity and comprehension. I evaluate how speakers organize their thoughts and ideas, looking for logical progression and coherence throughout their presentation. Clear introductions, transitions between points, and concise summaries are essential for effective communication.

4. Engagement: Engaging the audience is a key aspect of successful communication. I appreciate speakers who demonstrate enthusiasm, passion, and confidence in their delivery. Eye contact, gestures, vocal variety, and body language all contribute to creating a compelling and memorable presentation.

5. Adaptability: Flexibility and adaptability are important qualities for effective communication. I value participants who can respond thoughtfully to questions, counterarguments, or unexpected situations during debates or Q&A sessions. The ability to think on one's feet and adjust strategies accordingly demonstrates skill and composure under pressure.

Overall, as a judge, I prioritize clarity, content, organization, engagement, and adaptability when evaluating participants in speech and debate competitions. By emphasizing these key elements, I aim to encourage and reward effective communication skills that will serve students well in both academic and real-world contexts.

As a first-time parent judge for Lincoln-Douglas debate, I value clarity, logical arguments, and respectful engagement. Since I may not be familiar with all debate jargon, please explain your points clearly and avoid excessive technical language, and also avoid speaking too fast. I will focus on the overall persuasiveness of your case, the structure of your arguments, and how well you respond to your opponent. Delivery matters, but content is key. I expect debaters to show good sportsmanship and respect toward each other. Please signpost throughout, so I can follow your reasoning easily. Ultimately, the debater who provides the most convincing, well-supported argument will earn my ballot.