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Judging Criteria ~

A few things to look for...the list is not exhaustive!

Analysis:

Definitions

General knowledge of topic

Penetrating analysis of crucial issues

Is interpretation sound and reasonable?

Evidence & Reasoning:

Facts, statistics & authorities

Thorough research

Relevant research

Use of sound logic

Organization:

Effective introduction & conclusion

Well structured

Logical & coherent

Development of theme

Smooth transition from issue to issue

Effective use of time

Co-ordination with colleagues

Delivery:

A) Voice-

• Strength

• Effective use of rate, pitch and expression

• Good enunciation

• Good control (esp. effective use of pauses)

B) Language-

• Proper grammar

• Advanced vocabulary

C) Deportment-

• Good posture

• Gestures (effective or distracting?)

• Good eye contact

• Natural or contrived?

Refutation & Defence:

Ability to use logic to refute arguments of opponents

Ability to use logic to defend their position

Ability to focus on crucial issues

Recognition of fallacies

Anticipation of opponents

Collected & organized, not flustered

Uses info. from opponents to bolster their position

Spirited point-by-point attack

Attentive listener & accurate note-taker

Basic Debating Skills:

Parliamentary-

• Familiarity with rules

• Intelligent use of points of order/privilege

• Effective heckling

• Ability to handle heckling while speaking

Cross Examination

• Organized series of questions

• No speech-making or arguing

• Valuable admissions elicited

• Courtesy & respect for witness

• Effective use of time

• Effective control of witness

• Fair but effective questions

• Direct, honest answers

• Skilful responses

• No questions in reply

• Reasonable qualifications

• Co-operative & respectful

• Ability to use exam period to bolster own points

Penalties:

• Inappropriate conduct

• Objectionable language

• Severe personal attack on another debater

• Falsified evidence (proven false by opponents)

• Irrelevancy

• Reading of speech and/or memorization of speech

• Unfair tactics

• Poor teamwork

• Unfamiliar with rules