ABOUT PUBLIC FORUM
FORMAT
- A partner event where you debate a resolution that changes every 1-2 months. The topics are wide and far ranging, and frequent changes in the topic allow debaters to analyze different issues throughout the year without feeling bored with a stagnant, unchanging resolution. For more information on past topics and topic areas for the upcoming year, click here.
- Public Forum, unlike the other debate events, places heavy emphasis on the traditional aspects of debate. Anyone, regardless of their knowledge of the topic or debate event, can judge you, and it is your job to appeal to them. In Public Forum, you gain the invaluable skill of understanding how to adjust your rhetoric and argumentation style to best persuade your audience.
FORMAT
- Before every round, both teams flip a coin to determine their side (Affirmative or Negative) and speaking order (1st or 2nd). If you win the coin toss, you get to choose either the side you prefer or if you want to speak first or second.
- Constructive (4min) - First Speaker
- Final Focus (2min) - Second Speaker
- Summary (3min) - First Speaker
- 2nd Crossfire (3min) - Second Speakers only
- Rebuttal (4min) - Second Speaker
- 1st Crossfire (3min) - First Speakers only