Policy Debate Technique

Topic  |  Labs  |  Theory and Practicum  |  Research Skills  |  Technique  |  Electives  |  Files

Speaking skills are multi-dimensional, including the art of cross-examining a speaker and the art of answering questions after having delivered a speech. In lab and in electives, we will approach speaking from many directions, including the presentation of evidence and the use of analysis in rebuttals to create a round-winning argument. Clarity will be stressed over speed and the development of sophisticated analysis will be emphasized over reading. We will also work on the unique skills necessary for each of the eight speeches in a given debate and each of the four cross-examination scenarios.

The skill of speaking, of course, goes hand-in-hand with the art of listening and adapting. Flowing and judge adaptation are also skills that will be honed and improved with focus, awareness and practice. Every student will have a number of full practice debates and a number of mini-debates and rebuttal re-works, as well as at least five tournament rounds and a minimum of one elimination round (everyone clears) with college-level judging.