Terminology
What is a ballot?
the sheet of paper or online location where judges write the results of an individual round of competition.
What does the chairman do?
A neutral and impartial party who oversees and enforces the conduct and rules of a debate.
Are teams allowed to shift their view points?
No, it is illegal for any team to switch their stance on a resolution/motion.
What is a round?
an individual heat of competition, where students are matched to (an) opposing contestant(s) in a particular room with a particular judge or panel of judges.
What is a resolution/motion?
the proposition or subject offered to debate.
How many speakers can a team have?
3
Can a team use social media, a blog, or YouTube video as a source for their research?
No, with the exception of YouTube videos, as long as they are from a reputable news source.
How many speeches are there in a debate?
4 or 5
What is a Rebuttal?
A speech that rebuilds arguments after attacks, refutes arguments of the opposing team, and summarizes the debate.
What is affirmative and negative mean within the context of a debate?
Affirmative is the team who argue in favor of the motion/resolution.
Negative is the team who argues in opposition of the favor.
How much time does a team have to prepare their opening statement?
15 minutes
What happens during the rebuttal segment of a debate?
Teams will have the opportunity to refute one another's arguments.
What is a refutation?
A direct attack on the opposing teams’ arguments (also known as “clash”).
Who is responsible for tracking time per round?
The chairman or judges.
Can a speaker from one team directly refute a speaker from the opposition?
No, speakers are not allowed to refute their opponents directly.
How many rebuttals are there?
2 rounds
What does Criteria mean in a debate?
The terms and parameters that set and define what the motion is and what is being argued.
What is an adjudicator?
It is a judge
When can you refute your opponent's rebuttal?
During the next round of rebuttals.
What is the name of the optional segment during a debate?
Cross-examination