Contents Contents 2 NCFCA Mission Statement 4 Debate Guide Overview 4 Other Resources 4 Competitor Ethics Statement 5 Competition Material Policy 5 NCFCA Core Values in Debate 6 Godly Wisdom 6 Redeeming Truth 6 Gracious Communication 7 Enduring Excellence 7 Constructive Community 7 Debate Competition Policy 8 Questions? 8 Debate Style Parameters and Resolutions 9 Lincoln-Douglas Value Debate 9 Team Policy Debate 9 Resolution White Papers 9 Use Permissions 9 Debate Rules 10 A. Delivery and Conduct 10 B. Evidence and Citations 11 C. Timekeeping and Speaking Order 13 Lincoln-Douglas Value Speaking Order and Times 14 Team Policy Speaking Order and Times 14 Appendix A: Definitions 15 Appendix B: Evidence Citation Guidelines 16 Example 1: Website Citation 16 Example 2: Journal Article Citation 17 Example 3: No Author or Publication Date 17 Example 4: Visual Source Information 18 Example 5: Full Citation Placed in a Footnote 19 Appendix C: Speaker Category Descriptions and Rubric 20 Speaker Point Rubric 21 Appendix D: Ballot Content 22 Lincoln-Douglas Value Debate Ballot Sample 22 Team Policy Debate Ballot Sample 22 Appendix E: Summary of Key Changes 24 ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 2 of 24
Download a Printable Copy If you choose to print a copy of this guide, please keep in mind that you will need to check back regularly for updated versions that may be released throughout the season. Version History 2024.01 Published June 27, 2023 ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 3 of 24
NCFCA Mission Statement to challenge and equip ambassadors for Christ to communicate truth with integrity and grace Debate Guide Overview Competitors must adhere to all of the following for debate events: NCFCA Mission Statement NCFCA’s Mission Statement expresses the purpose that should drive all NCFCA activity. League Handbook The League Handbook covers the overarching policies and rules for participation in NCFCA tournaments. Competition Material Policy The Competition Material Policy sets the standard for material used in both speech and debate competition. Ethics Statement The Ethics Statement is every competitor’s commitment to compete with Christ-like integrity. Debate Competition Policy The Debate Competition Policy covers tournament and season limitations on entries and partners. Debate Style Parameters & Resolutions The Debate Style Parameters define the roles of each team in Lincoln-Douglas Value and Team Policy Debate. Debate Rules The Debate Rules cover both Lincoln-Douglas Value and Team Policy debate. Other Resources Competitors are also encouraged to consult the following resources: ● The information appendixes included in this document ● Debate X-tra Resources in the NCFCA Resource Library found in the affiliate dashboard ● The Comprehensive Guides to NCFCA Debate found in the NCFCA Shop ● NCFCA Online Camp and Intensive recordings found in the NCFCA Shop ● League Updates, Competition Updates, and Education Updates on the NCFCA website. ● Judge training resources published prior to the beginning of competition season ● Training and coaching available throughout the season in the form of webinars, special events, and local clubs ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 4 of 24
Competitor Ethics Statement Competitors will be required to affirm the NCFCA Ethics Statement during the online check-in process for each tournament. As an NCFCA competitor, I am committed to the highest standards of academic integrity and ethical behavior in all areas of competitive forensics. I will comply with all tournament policies and rules. I understand that through my participation in NCFCA, I serve as a witness of Christ and will seek to reflect this in both word and deed at all times. Competition Material Policy Competition material in both speech and debate should align with the NCFCA mission and uphold each competitor’s witness for Christ. Great care and sensitivity should be given as sources and content for use in competition are considered and presented. ● While we live in a world that is often messy and broken, as Christian communicators, we value messages of redeeming truth. We have both the privilege and responsibility to discover, meditate upon, and communicate whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy in all areas of life (Philippians 4:8). This does not mean that every source or presentation needs to have an overtly Christian theme, but all dark themes must provide a redemptive element. ● Any speech or speech within a debate round which contains potentially intense or sensitive themes or examples must be preceded by this disclaimer: “This speech (or debate content) contains potentially intense or sensitive material." The speaker should then allow any time necessary for audience members to exit the room if they choose. ● Any speech or debate content which advocates a position counter to the Foundational Beliefs of the league will not be allowed in competition. (Please see the League Handbook for information on the Foundational Beliefs.) ● Vulgarity is never acceptable. Vulgarity includes explicit or implied language or gestures which are inappropriate, obscene, or profane. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 5 of 24
NCFCA Core Values in Debate The NCFCA Core Values are explained in our League Handbook along with supporting scripture; however, each value bears specific application to debate. Values involve heart issues that cannot be imposed by rules, but together, we can encourage and hold one another accountable for growth in the application of values we want to cultivate. The following guidance is intended to help competitors, coaches, club leaders, and parents better understand and apply the NCFCA Mission and Core Values in the context of debate. The Do and Don’t/Instead examples offered below are not rules, but they represent principles for worthy behavior. While they don't cover every scenario, they do represent some of the most common issues competitors must respond to and can provide guidance for growth in integrity and grace. Godly Wisdom Godly wisdom in debate means rightly applying knowledge, evidence, and support to arguments. Do research and accept coaching to truly understand complex debate topics. Don’t make bold, confident statements about topics you don’t actually understand. Instead, be humble about the limits of your own knowledge and understanding. Do make understandable arguments with evidence and support that fits the context. Don’t make arguments that you know are confusing or unconnected to the topic. Instead, seek to clarify information for everyone participating in the round. Redeeming Truth Redeeming truth in debate means valuing the truth and worth of your words above winning in any way that involves dishonesty or inappropriate content. Do choose topics and arguments that are worthy of debate and of your competitors’ and judges’ time and attention. Don’t bring up disturbing content for the sake of making a dramatic point or manipulating emotions. Instead, avoid dwelling on evil, and use caution and sensitivity to deal with topics that others may find troubling. Do answer questions and make arguments honestly even if the honest answer is “I don’t know,” or if the truth favors your opponent. Don’t say anything you suspect may not be true or make something up in a round even if you think it might help your side. Instead, prefer an honest loss to a cheap, dishonest win. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 6 of 24
Gracious Communication Pursuing gracious communication while arguing with passion requires self-control and a firm resolve to respect others even in areas of intense clash. Do commit to speaking in a way that honors and blesses all participants. Don’t try to embarrass, surprise, or undermine fellow debaters. Instead, be forthcoming with information and explanations, especially to help struggling opponents. Do treat partners, opponents, and judges with kindness, humility, and respect. Don’t use bored or scornful facial expressions or whisper at length through your opponent's speeches. Instead, listen attentively and politely, even after all of your own speeches are finished. Enduring Excellence Enduring excellence in debate is characterized by valuing and doing the hard work required for solid preparation and long-term growth. Do plenty of your own research and preparation to understand the resolution and its related topics. Don’t spend time strategizing shortcuts for easier wins or plan to rely primarily on the work of others. Instead, study in a way that will help you better understand complex issues in a balanced way throughout life. Do seek to be challenged by opponents, and be willing to seek feedback and constructive criticism. Don’t assume that you know better than parents, coaches, judges, or peers. Instead, be willing to humbly evaluate and accept corrections and challenges to your positions. Constructive Community Constructive community is built on authenticity, mutual respect, and transparency—both inside and outside of competition rounds. Do support those who are struggling and encourage those who lack confidence. Don’t gossip, shun, or participate in attempts to exclude others from fellowship or collaboration. Instead, be welcoming and willing to help everyone compete well. Do value collaboration, openness, and better debate rounds for everyone. Don’t use secrecy as a weapon or strategy. Instead, be willing to share enough information to allow all fellow competitors to prepare to compete well against you. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 7 of 24
Debate Competition Policy ● Debaters may compete in either Lincoln-Douglas Value or Team Policy during any given tournament but not both. ● Debaters may not change partners in Team Policy or Moot Court during a tournament. ● Debaters who qualify for either their Regional Championship or the National Championship in both Team Policy and Lincoln-Douglas Value Debate must choose one of these styles of debate in which to participate during that tournament. ● Debaters may compete in and qualify to the Regional or National Championship with different partners at separate tournaments during the competitive season in both Team Policy and Moot Court, but they must choose only one of their qualified partners in each event to compete with at the next level of tournament (either the Regional Championship or the National Championship). Questions? Try our FAQ Document for Answers Find answers to many common questions in our Debate FAQ document. Other Questions while Preparing for Competition Competitors, families, and coaches with questions regarding debate rules in preparation for competition season should contact the Debate Committee at [email protected]. Questions During a Tournament Questions regarding potential rule violations during a tournament should be submitted to Tournament Administration immediately following the debate round. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 8 of 24
Debate Style Parameters and Resolutions The NCFCA debate program is designed to challenge young people to communicate truth with integrity and grace. Each style of debate offers unique educational opportunities that promote organizational skills, logical argumentation, respectful refutation, and effective delivery. Lincoln-Douglas Value Debate One debater affirms the resolution while another opposes or negates it, demonstrating a clash of competing desirable values. This style of debate simulates the famous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. 2023-2024 Resolution Rationalism should be valued above empiricism. Team Policy Debate A team of two debaters affirms the resolution while another team of two debaters negates the affirmative position. This form of debate simulates argumentation in a legislative body. 2023-2024 Resolution The United States Federal Government (USFG) should significantly reform its domestic transportation policy implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Resolution White Papers The Debate Resolution Committees published resolution whitepapers during the process of offering proposed resolutions to the league for voting. These papers offer an informational starting point for understanding the resolutions. Use Permissions NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate invests significant time and resources in the development and wording of proposed debate resolutions and other debate resources. Our resolutions, white papers, sample cases, and guides are copyrighted intellectual property of NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate. No portions may be used, reproduced, or republished outside of our league without written permission from NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate. Please contact [email protected] for permission. Resolution wording may undergo minor amendment if deemed necessary prior to the start of the 2023-2024 competition season. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 9 of 24
Debate Rules A. Delivery and Conduct 1. Delivery should be civil and comprehensible. Conversational-style debate is valued. 2. Argumentation should be supported with what a general listener would consider logical reasoning. Analysis, explanation, and appeals to common sense are considered acceptable strategies. 3. Debate is primarily a verbal activity. Exhibits or visual aids are not permitted. 4. Debaters should each introduce themselves once all participants are present. 5. Only the Affirmative speaker for Lincoln-Douglas Value or 1st Affirmative speaker for Team Policy may briefly ask a general question about judging background and/or philosophy prior to beginning the AC/1AC. Asking specific questions about debate theory, asking multiple questions, or engaging in conversation with the judge about the debate round is not permitted. 6. Debaters may not interact with the opposing team while a speaker is presenting except for evidence exchange initiated by the speaker. 7. Tag Teaming is not permitted. Debaters must rely upon their own reasoning while speaking in the round. In Team Policy Debate, communicating with one’s partner in any way while the partner is presenting is not allowed. 8. Debaters may not discuss evidence or the round with the judge(s) outside of the round. 9. An observer may not attempt to influence the outcome of a round in any way. Electronic Device Use 10. Debaters may use electronic devices during the round but may not use them to research or to request, send, or receive information. during the debate round with the exception of evidence exchange and communication between partners during online tournaments as permitted by the rules. Online Tournaments 11. Internet access and a device with a microphone and a webcam are required. The camera and microphone may be integrated or external. 12. A single, stationary camera must be used (i.e., no zooming or panning is permitted). 13. Green screens, virtual backgrounds, or on-screen text may not be used. 14. Competitors may choose to stand or sit at a desk or table while presenting. 15. A minimum of the competitor’s head and shoulders must be visible whenever the competitor is on camera. 16. Other individuals may be present during a round but may not be visible on screen. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 10 of 24
17. Debaters should keep their cameras on at all times except when experiencing significant technical difficulties. 18. Judges may use discretion to extend any portions of the round for a maximum of fifteen minutes in the case of technical difficulties only. Tournament Administration should be notified of any extended delays and will make decisions regarding the round. 19. Partners may share a device and/or camera in Team Policy. In Team Policy, debaters sharing a device are not excluded from the requirement to promptly provide evidence requested by the opposing team. 20. Within the competition room, Team Policy partners may access the private chat function when neither partner is presenting. B. Evidence and Citations Preparing and Delivering Evidence Citations 1. Evidence presented in the round must be properly cited and available upon request. 2. Sources for evidence presented in the round must be verbally mentioned in the delivery of the speech. 3. Evidence presented in the round must contain a full citation including source and date. a. The source includes all of the following items that are available: title of publication or website, URL, article title, author, and any other information required to expediently locate the cited material for verification. Sources for evidence must be verifiable via public means. b. The date includes the date first published if available, the date updated if applicable, and the date accessed if a publication date is not available. 4. Evidence presented in the round must have been compiled, cut, formatted, and printed prior to the round unless the evidence is read or summarized directly from a complete printed source which is present in its entirety with the debater during the round. a. For evidence read or summarized directly from a complete printed source, cutting and formatting will consist of bookmarking the page(s) containing the cited segment and marking the cited segment with pen, pencil, highlighter, and/or adhesive labels. b. The marked segment must be clearly readable. 5. Words may not be added, subtracted, or substituted in cut and formatted evidence. 6. If cut and formatted evidence includes words that are formatted to indicate that they are not intended to be read aloud in the round, those words must remain easily readable. 7. Common knowledge that is known to most people does not need to be cited in any way. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 11 of 24
Use of Evidence 8. Evidence must be presented in a manner consistent with its use and context in the original source material. 9. Distorting evidence is prohibited. Distorting evidence is representing evidence in a way that alters the author’s meaning and includes, but is not limited to: a. Using only a portion of the entire quote in such a way that it is no longer consistent with the author’s position throughout the entire article without making that clear to the listener. b. Changing words within the quote. This includes changing words like “might” to “will” or “could” to “is.” c. Summarizing a quote but presenting it as a direct quote from the author. 10. Fabricating evidence is prohibited and includes, but is not limited to: a. Asserting as fact information that cannot be found in a published source. b. Manufacturing articles, quotes, or dates. 11. Evidence used in a debate round, whether quoted or summarized, may not include language or explicit descriptions that are vulgar, heinous, obscene, or profane. Availability of Evidence 12. Debaters may request pieces of evidence and/or the specific text of a Team Policy plan presented in the round from the opposing team, but only during their own speech, cross-examination time, or prep time. a. Requests must be made verbally for both in-person and online tournaments. The chat function available during online competition may not be used to initiate requests for evidence. b. A copy of the evidence, in context, or the specific text of the Team Policy plan must be promptly provided. i. At in-person tournaments, a printed copy must be provided. ii. In online tournaments, the Online Evidence Exchange rules (below) must be followed. 13. Judges may request to review one or more specific pieces of evidence and/or the specific text of a Team Policy plan presented in the round for clarification or accuracy by contacting Tournament Administration at the end of the round. Online Evidence Exchange 14. Cut and formatted evidence must be exchanged within the competition room via the evidence exchange chat and/or the file upload function. a. Providing the link to a source does not meet this requirement, but the link may be included in the required citation. b. For any evidence read or summarized directly from a complete printed source, a photograph of the source’s title page or complete citation information must be made promptly available in addition to photographs of the page(s) marked according to rule B.4. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 12 of 24
15. Accessing links to evidence sources is not permitted during the round. 16. The evidence exchange chat may be used to: a. Copy and paste evidence. b. Share links to evidence stored in cloud-based files (e.g., Google Docs). The document owner must ensure that document permissions are set for open access. c. Confirm receipt of verbally requested evidence. 17. File upload may be used to upload documents. a. The recommended file types are .pdf or .jpg. Other acceptable formats include .doc, .docx, or .png. b. Debaters are responsible to ensure that they can download and open all of these file types on their device. C. Timekeeping and Speaking Order 1. Debaters must be present and ready to begin promptly or risk forfeiture of the round. Forfeiture is determined by Tournament Administration. a. In online tournaments, competitors experiencing technical difficulties that cannot be resolved within a total of 15 minutes risk forfeiture of the round. 2. Speakers must provide their own timepieces. a. The timepiece must count down and have an audible alarm. b. Electronic devices, such as phones, may be used for timekeeping, provided that competitors adhere to all other rules and limitations regarding the use of electronic devices. 3. Speakers who are presenting will time their own speeches. 4. The speaker asking questions will time cross-examination. 5. Speakers must adhere to prescribed speaking times and may not turn off the alarm and continue speaking. 6. Teams will track their own prep time and must report their remaining prep time to the judge(s) and opposing team at the conclusion of each prep time. 7. The speaking order, assigned speakers, and times shown below for Lincoln-Douglas Value and Team Policy debate must be observed for each style. 8. Up to three minutes of preparation time for Lincoln-Douglas Value and up to five minutes of preparation time for Team Policy may be used by each team throughout the round prior to their constructive and rebuttal speeches. Prep time may not be used immediately before cross-examination. 9. Switching the speaking order between partners (in-and-out speaking) is not permitted during a Team Policy Debate round. 10. Speakers must each participate in their assigned cross-examination roles, both asking and answering questions. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 13 of 24
Lincoln-Douglas Value Speaking Order and Times Speech Speaker(s) Time AC Affirmative Constructive Affirmative Speaker 6 min. CX Cross-Examination Negative Speaker asks questions 3 min. NC Negative Constructive Negative Speaker 7 min. CX Cross-Examination Affirmative Speaker asks questions 3 min. 1AR 1st Affirmative Rebuttal Affirmative Speaker 4 min. NR Negative Rebuttal Negative Speaker 6 min. 2AR 2nd Affirmative Rebuttal Affirmative Speaker 3 min. Team Policy Speaking Order and Times Speech Speaker(s) Time 1AC 1st Affirmative Constructive 1st Affirmative Speaker 8 min. CX Cross-Examination 2nd Negative Speaker asks questions 3 min. 1NC 1st Negative Constructive 1st Negative Speaker 8 min. CX Cross-Examination 1st Affirmative Speaker asks questions 3 min. 2AC 2nd Affirmative Constructive 2nd Affirmative Speaker 8 min. CX Cross-Examination 1st Negative Speaker asks questions 3 min. 2NC 2nd Negative Constructive 2nd Negative Speaker 8 min. CX Cross-Examination 2nd Affirmative Speaker asks questions 3 min. 1NR 1st Negative Rebuttal 1st Negative Speaker 5 min. 1AR 1st Affirmative Rebuttal 1st Affirmative Speaker 5 min. 2NR 2nd Negative Rebuttal 2nd Negative Speaker 5 min. 2AR 2nd Affirmative Rebuttal 2nd Affirmative Speaker 5 min. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 14 of 24
Appendix A: Definitions The following definitions are offered to help clarify how some common terms are used in NCFCA rules and in conversations concerning debate. Case The main substance of the assertions and/or plan set forth in a team’s first constructive speech of the round Complete Printed Source Can be a published book, pamphlet, tract, etc. May also be a printed copy of the complete (entire) text of a proposed or actual piece of legislation, journal article, magazine article, etc. Constructive Speeches The speeches in a debate round dedicated to introducing, building, and responding to arguments (See order and times) CrossExamination The period immediately following each constructive speech, during which the specified opponent is allowed to ask questions of the speaker (See order and times) Cut and Formatted Evidence Also commonly referred to as a “piece of evidence,” “evidence card,” or simply “evidence.” Cut and formatted evidence consists of three essential parts: 1. An exact excerpt of the text and/or a graphic that a debater plans to refer to in a debate round either by reading as a direct quote or summarizing 2. The surrounding context cut to the closest reasonable boundaries such as the beginning and end of the surrounding paragraph 3. A complete citation Generally, it also contains a tag line. See samples in Appendix B. Evidence Facts, documentation, or testimony of others whether directly quoted or summarized Support Generally, consists of any or all of the following: analysis, analogies, evidence, examples, explanation, logic, and appeals to common sense Team Policy Plan The words read during the first constructive speech that set forth the terms of a team’s proposal for how to change the status quo , including but not limited to any of the following: mandates, agency, funding, enforcement, and timeline. Rebuttal Speeches The speeches in a round reserved for responding to and extending existing lines of argumentation rather than introducing new arguments (See order and times) Refutation A competitor’s response(s) to counter an opponent’s assertions, arguments, or support Resolution The arguable assertion set forth as the topical starting point for all debates of a particular style during the current competition season (2023-2024 Resolutions) Tag or Tag Line Title or heading used to label a verbally delivered argument or a piece of cut and formatted evidence ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 15 of 24
Appendix B: Evidence Citation Guidelines Evidence is a critical part of both Lincoln-Douglas Value and Team Policy Debate. Because debate rounds take place within a fixed time frame with no immediate access to verify the information presented, it is imperative that competitors exhibit the highest degree of academic integrity by citing essential source information verbally, by reading quotations verbatim, by differentiating the words of the author from the rhetoric of the speaker, and by having evidence with full citations readily available for inspection by the opposing team or judge(s). The sample formats below serve as models, not mandates, for source citations. Example 1: Website Citation Tag Line: Set apart in bold font and identifies key content. Full Citation: Set apart in reduced font and includes available information. Verbal Citation: Set apart in larger font and underlined; includes the source (required), publication name, and date (encouraged, but not required). Direct Quotation: Indented and set apart in quotation marks. Words that will be read into the round are indicated by bold font, and words that will not be read aloud are included in smaller font. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 16 of 24
Example 2: Journal Article Citation Tag Line: Set apart in bold font and identifies key content. Full Citation: Set apart in reduced font and includes available information. Verbal Citation: Set apart in larger font and bolded; includes the source (required), author credentials, publication name, and date (encouraged, but not required). Direct Quotation: Indented and set apart in quotation marks. Words that will be read into the round are indicated by underlined font, and words that will not be read aloud are included in smaller font. Example 3: No Author or Publication Date Tag Line: Set apart in bold font and identifies key content. Full Citation: Set apart in reduced font and includes available information. Verbal Citation: Set apart in larger font and underlined; includes the source (required) and date accessed (encouraged, but not required). Direct Quotation: Indented and set apart in quotation marks. Words that will be read into the round are indicated by underlined font. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 17 of 24
Example 4: Visual Source Information Tag Line: Set apart in bold font and identifies key content. Full Citation: Set apart in reduced font and includes available information. Verbal Citation: Set apart and underlined; includes the source (required), and publication date (encouraged, but not required), and indicates the information comes from a graphic. Summary of Visual Source Information: Set apart in brackets (rather than quotation marks) after a note to signify that the words to follow convey a summary, not a quotation. Graph/Chart/Visual: Complete graphic with legends and/or captions. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 18 of 24
Example 5: Full Citation Placed in a Footnote Tag Line: Set apart in bold font and identifies key content. Verbal Citation: Set apart in larger font and underlined; includes the source (required), publication name, and date (encouraged, but not required). Direct Quotation: Set apart in quotation marks. Words that will be read into the round are indicated by underlined font, and words that will not be read aloud are not underlined. Full Citation: Set apart using a footnote corresponding to the quoted block of text and includes available information. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 19 of 24
Appendix C: Speaker Category Descriptions and Rubric The descriptions on this page explain what excellence in each speaker point area would look like. Most debaters will achieve some of these goals in each round, but very few will display all of these attributes. To see descriptions of what different performance levels might look like in each category and how to assign scores, please see the Speaker Point Rubric on the following page. Delivery (see rubric) ● Speaks with confidence, clarity, and poise ● Uses voice, volume, and gestures to enhance speeches ● Presents arguments convincingly, understandably, and winsomely ● Speaks without distracting gestures or mannerisms Organization (see rubric) ● Presents arguments, evidence, and support in a logical order ● Identifies and distinguishes important points clearly ● Connects lines of argumentation with clarity and accuracy ● Uses speaking time effectively Evidence and Support (see rubric) ● Presents appropriate evidence, examples, and/or reasoning to support arguments ● Explains the relevance and importance of evidence and support ● Describes the reliability and quality of evidence and support appropriately ● Offers clear citations for all outside support presented, whether quoted or summarized Refutation (see rubric) ● Demonstrates understanding of opponent's arguments and which arguments are the most important ● Responds to arguments with appropriate counter evidence, examples, and/or reasoning ● Explains the relevance of the clash between opposing arguments with clarity ● Appropriately evaluates the quality of opponent’s evidence or support Cross Examination (see rubric) ● Asks relevant questions in a respectful, clear, and concise manner ● Asks questions that clarify issues, build consensus, or expose weaknesses in reasoning ● Appropriately develops key points exposed in cross-examination ● Answers questions respectfully, clearly, and concisely Conduct (see rubric) ● Behaves graciously and respectfully throughout the round ● Presents arguments with honesty and consistency throughout the round ● Characterizes opponent’s arguments fairly, respectfully, and accurately ● Uses constructive and rebuttal speeches according to their intended purposes ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 20 of 24
Speaker Point Rubric Please use the guidance below to assign accurate scores for each area for the speakers in the round. The default score for areas that were not remarkably strong or weak should be three (3) stars. Very Weak Area Area that Needs Work Good in this Area (default) Very Strong Area Exceptional in this Area 1 ☆ 2 ☆ ☆ 3 ☆ ☆ ☆ 4 ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ 5 ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Delivery ( See full category descrip on ) Marked by poor or distrac ng mannerisms, volume, rate of speaking, ar cula on, pronuncia on, gestures, or habitual movements. Suffers from less than ideal rate, volume, flow, ar cula on, and/or pronuncia on; physical delivery lacks energy and/or eye contact. May include some distrac ng habits. Speech is delivered at a generally good rate and volume with a few ar cula on or pronuncia on issues. Physical delivery has some eye contact and energy. Rate, volume, flow, ar cula on, and pronuncia on are solid. Physical delivery is energe c, professional, and engaging. Excep onally smooth, engaging, interes ng, professional, and courteous delivery. Rate, volume, pronuncia on and ar cula on are excep onal. Organiza on ( See full category descrip on ) Speeches are disorganized and/or evidence is presented in a haphazard manner. Speeches appear to have some structure but lack an overall connec on between points. Speeches, evidence, support, and arguments follow a general outline. Speeches exhibit good organiza on of arguments, evidence, and support. Speeches show superior organiza on of arguments, evidence, and support throughout the round. Evidence and Support ( See full category descrip on ) Serious omissions, mishandling, or misapplica on of evidence, examples, or logic necessary to support arguments. No ceable gaps in evidence, examples, or logic used to support arguments. Evidence and support do not always relate to the issue at hand. Most points supported by good evidence or reasoning, though some evidence or reasoning may be somewhat confusing or misapplied. Consistent use of relevant evidence, examples, and logic to support the major points in the round. Presents interes ng and understandable evidence, examples, and/or reasoning in support of every major argument. Refuta on ( See full category descrip on ) Consistently misses or seemingly ignores arguments being made by the opponent. Displays some ability to iden fy and counter the opponent's arguments. Correctly iden fies most of the opponent’s arguments and makes reasonable and though ul arguments in return. Quickly and accurately makes sense of the opponent's major arguments and consistently responds with solid argumenta on. Excep onally skilled in iden fying core issues and presen ng persuasive rebu als to important arguments. Cross Examina on ( See full category descrip on ) Unprepared or unwilling to ask or answer many ques ons. Ques ons and answers are vague, unconvincing or disrespec ul. Not well prepared to ask or answer many ques ons. Ques ons asked may be confusing or miss the point. Answers may be vague or unconvincing. Asks some good ques ons, gives some effec ve answers, and is generally respec ul. Asks probing ques ons, gives compelling answers, and is generally very respec ul. Asks excellent ques ons that expose or weaken the opponent's arguments. Answers arguments persuasively and is always very respec ul. Conduct ( See full category descrip on ) Displays rude behavior which may include sarcasm, personal a acks, raised voice, disdainful demeanor, arrogance, or abrasiveness. Displays less than ideal manners and/or is somewhat abrasive. Speaker is generally well-mannered and polite. Displays proac ve courtesy and respect throughout the round. Excep onally gracious, winsome, and respec ul to all par cipants throughout the round. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 21 of 24
Appendix D: Ballot Content Lincoln-Douglas Value Debate Ballot Sample This form is provided for reference and practice. It shows what judges will see for this event in the electronic ballot system. Affirmative Speaker Negative Speaker Speaker Rank ☐ 1 st ☐ 2 nd Speaker Rank ☐ 1 st ☐ 2 nd Speaker Points (1-5) Speaker Points (1-5) Delivery ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Delivery ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Organization ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Organization ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Evidence & Support ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Evidence & Support ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Refutation ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Refutation ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Cross-Examination ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Cross-Examination ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Conduct ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Conduct ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Total Total Comments Comments Decision ☐Affirmative ☐ Double Loss ☐ Negative Reason for decision Judge Date ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 22 of 24
Team Policy Debate Ballot Sample This form is provided for reference and practice. It shows what judges will see for this event in the electronic ballot system. 1 st Affirmative Speaker 1 st Negative Speaker Speaker Rank ☐ 1 st ☐ 2 nd ☐ 3 rd ☐ 4 th Speaker Rank ☐ 1 st ☐ 2 nd ☐ 3 rd ☐ 4 th Speaker Points (1-5) Speaker Points (1-5) Delivery ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Delivery ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Organization ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Organization ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Evidence & Support ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Evidence & Support ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Refutation ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Refutation ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Cross-Examination ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Cross-Examination ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Conduct ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Conduct ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Total Total Comments Comments 2 nd Affirmative Speaker 2 nd Negative Speaker Speaker Rank ☐ 1 st ☐ 2 nd ☐ 3 rd ☐ 4 th Speaker Rank ☐ 1 st ☐ 2 nd ☐ 3 rd ☐ 4 th Speaker Points (1-5) Speaker Points (1-5) Delivery ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Delivery ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Organization ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Organization ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Evidence & Support ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Evidence & Support ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Refutation ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Refutation ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Cross-Examination ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Cross-Examination ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Conduct ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Conduct ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Total Total Comments Comments Decision ☐ Affirmative ☐ Double Loss ☐ Negative Reason for decision Judge Date ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 23 of 24
Appendix E: Summary of Key Changes The following summary highlights key changes in the debate guide for the 2023-2024 season. This summary should not be considered a substitute for careful study of the 2023-2024 Debate Guide. Category Notable Changes Core Value Descriptions ● The section on Core Values has been customized in this guide to improve understanding of what the NCFCA Core Values look like in the context of debate. Electronic Device Use ● A.10 reworded and consolidated for clarity Preparation of Evidence ● B.4 reworded and subpoints reorganized for improved clarity regarding the optional use of complete printed sources in rounds versus excerpts or portions of complete sources that must be cut and formatted prior to the round ● B.5 Added ● B.6 Moved from Evidence Use section to Evidence Preparation section Definitions ● Team Policy Plan definition updated ● Complete Printed Source definition added Speaker Point Categories and Guidance ● “Delivery and Persuasiveness” category changed to “Delivery” and “Conduct and Integrity” category changed to “Conduct” ● Category Descriptions updated ● Rubric—back by popular demand—and updated to encourage better distinction between ratings Minor Changes Updates to clarify wording and improve organization may not be specifically noted above. 2023 Debate Guide For reference and comparison, the 2023 Debate Guide remains available in the Debate X-tra Resources document in the Resource Library on the NCFCA website. ©NCFCA Christian Speech & Debate | V 2024.01 | June 27, 2023 | Page 24 of 24