Here is a summary of the debate events:

Debate: Debates are structured arguments or discussions with timed speeches. Students must prove their side of the issue within a given time frame and set of rules to guide the debate. Engaging discussion takes place as students cross-examine one another and a winner is determined based on the arguments presented.

Team Policy Debate: A two-on-two debate that focuses on a policy question for the academic year.

Lincoln Douglas Debate: A one-on-one debate that centers on the weighing of values held by individuals, societies, and governments. Debaters develop arguments based on a value's perspective.

Parliamentary Debate: A two-on-two debate designed to engage the audience with advanced debate and speaking skills. Meant for older students and lasting only 45 minutes, students receive a current issue topic 20 minutes before the round. They prepare arguments that reflect general and specific knowledge they have acquired throughout their education. A sample resolution could be: This house believes that change is not progress.

Evidence Standards

Debate Resolutions for the 2024-2025 season:

Team Policy Resolution

Resolved: The United States Federal Government should substantially reform its policy on health care.

Team Policy Debate Rules

Lincoln Douglas Resolutions

Triple the Value: 1st Resolution debated 10/1/24 - 12/31/24
Resolved: The acquisition of knowledge is an intrinsic good.
The other two resolutions 2024-2025 competitive season resolutions are:
Resolved: Mandatory national service is justified.
Resolved: In U.S. law enforcement, accountability ought to be prioritized over effectiveness.

Lincoln Douglas Debate Rules

Values of Milton Rokeach

Parliamentary Debate Resolution

Resolutions change for each tournament and each round.

Parliamentary Debate Rules