Students compete in debate events such as Lincoln-Douglas debate and public forum debate, where opposing debaters or teams argue predetermined topics chosen monthly by the National Forensic League. In spontaneous argumentation the topics are created by the hosting school. In Congressional debate individuals compete in a group setting and students write and present their own pieces of legislation.
The debate competition also includes speech events such as oratory (a memorized original speech), impromptu speech, and extemporaneous speaking, which involves speaking on both national and foreign affairs. In dramatic and humorous interpretation events competitors perform published works from plays, poems, and novels.
“Critical to the success of the tournament is the work of volunteer judges who evaluate and rank the competitors on predetermined criteria unique to each event,” tournament organizers said in the news release.
A total of 20 judges are needed from the Moab community to supplement judges provided by participating schools.
“Judging a debate event is an inspiring, educational experience,” said GCHS debate coach Boyd Brian. “We expect good representation of the state’s finest debaters, and the competition will be intense.”
According to the National Forensic League website, “Beyond the improvements in their academic performance that prepare [the students] to excel in college, speech and debate students change in ways that influence every aspect of their lives. It gives them the social and academic confidence they need to grow as individuals, achieve educational goals, pursue meaningful work, and improve the lives of others – and our world.”
Judges are needed on Friday, Dec. 14 from 4 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. First-time judges will be asked to attend a one-hour pre-tournament training held during the week before the competition.
To sign up or for more information, contact Penelope Butterfield at the high school at 435-259-8931.