Debate Events
Parliamentary (Parli)
Parliamentary debate is an extemporaneous format where teams of two receive a new topic 15-20 minutes before each round. Debaters must quickly prepare arguments without access to outside resources during prep time. Rounds consist of constructive speeches, cross-examinations, and rebuttals from both sides. Parli emphasizes critical thinking, quick analysis, persuasive speaking, and broad knowledge of current events and issues. Success requires the ability to craft logical arguments on the fly and adapt to opponents’ arguments. The format rewards articulate speakers who can think on their feet and possess a wide base of general knowledge.
Typical Round Length: 45-60 minutes
Typical Number of Students: 4 (two teams of two
World Schools (WSD)
World Schools Debate features two teams of three members each, the Proposition and the Opposition, debating a variety of international topics. Each round consists of eight speeches, with the first six lasting eight minutes and concluding with two four-minute reply speeches. Teams typically have 30 to 60 minutes for preparation. This format emphasizes effective communication, teamwork, and the ability to construct logical arguments while engaging in rebuttals and points of information. Competitors must articulate their positions clearly and persuasively, balancing ethical considerations with practical implications.
Typical Round Length: 56 minutes
Typical Number of Students: 6 (two teams of three)
Public Forum (PF)
Public Forum debate features two teams of two debaters each, engaging in discussions on current event topics selected monthly. Each round consists of a series of speeches, including constructive speeches, rebuttals, and crossfire questioning periods. Debaters are not assigned sides until the round begins, with a coin toss determining which team chooses their stance or speaking order. This format prioritizes persuasive speaking, critical thinking, and effective argumentation, allowing debaters to develop their cases while responding to their opponents’ points. The emphasis on clear communication makes it accessible for both competitors and judges, fostering an engaging debate environment.
Typical Round Length: 35-40 minutes
Typical Number of Students: 4 (two teams of two)
Lincoln-Douglas (LD)
Lincoln-Douglas debate is a one-on-one competitive format focusing on logic, ethical values, and philosophy. Each round features an affirmative debater supporting a given resolution and a negative debater opposing it. Speeches include constructive arguments, cross-examinations, and rebuttals, with strict time limits for each. The format emphasizes critical thinking, persuasive speaking, and the ability to analyze complex moral and philosophical issues. Debaters must articulate their positions clearly while responding to their opponent’s arguments, fostering skills in rapid analysis and argumentation on a variety of topics that change bi-monthly.
Typical Round Length: 40-45 minutes
Typical Number of Students: 2 (one affirmative, one negative)
Congressional (Congress)
Congressional Debate simulates the U.S. legislative process, with students acting as members of Congress. Participants prepare and debate bills and resolutions on various topics, delivering speeches for or against proposed legislation. The format includes authorship speeches, questioning periods, and subsequent speeches. Students are evaluated on their research, argumentation, delivery skills, and knowledge of parliamentary procedure. This event emphasizes public speaking, critical thinking, and the ability to engage in substantive policy discussions. A presiding officer, elected from among the students, manages the flow of debate and ensures adherence to proper procedures.
Typical Round Length: 2-3 hours per session
Typical Number of Students: 10-20 per chamber