Speech and Debate Final
What is the penalty for using electronic devices to receive outside competitive information?
Contestants will be disqualified from the tournament and forfeit all rounds and merit points.
What position are debaters expected to take while speaking?
Debaters are expected to stand at the front of the room facing the judge.
What is the minimum standard for oral citation when introducing evidence?
Debaters must orally deliver the primary author's last name and the year of publication.
What is strictly prohibited regarding electronic devices and outside communication?
Devices may not be used to receive competitive information from non-competitors.
What is the total preparation time allotted to each PF team?
Each team is allowed a total of 3 minutes of preparation time during the debate.
When must full written source citations be provided?
If requested by an opponent or judge.
What competitive activities are permitted using internet access on electronic devices?
Internet access may be used to retrieve files, exchange evidence, research arguments, and for partner-to-partner communication.
Are formalized plans or counterplans permitted in PF Debate?
No, formalized plans or counterplans are not permitted.
What must happen if a debater uses paraphrased material?
The debater must meet the same standard of citation and accuracy as if the entire text were read.
What is the penalty for 'distortion' or using 'non-existent evidence'?
The offending debater(s) will lose the debate and be disqualified from the tournament.
Who must ask the first question in the regular Crossfire rounds?
The speaker who spoke first must ask the first question.
What is the goal of Public Forum Debate (PF)?
To convince a neutral judge that their two-person team has better reasons for their positions on contemporary issues.
What are the times for the Final Focus Speeches?
2 minutes each for the second speaker of Team A and Team B.
What are the times for the Summary Speeches?
3 minutes each for the first speaker of Team A and Team B.
How long are the two Crossfire periods between the main speeches?
3 minutes each.
What are the times for the Constructive Speeches?
4 minutes each for the First Speaker of Team A and Team B.
Who participates and who starts the questioning in the Grand Crossfire?
All four debaters participate; the speaker who gave the first summary speech must ask the first question.
How are the side (pro/con) and speaking position determined?
A coin is tossed; the winning team chooses either the side of the topic or the speaking position.
Who comprises a Public Forum entry?
A team consists of two students from the same school.
