What Are the Three Jobs of a Judge?
Job 1 – The Decision
- Do not discuss individual scores with other judges.
- Based upon each team’s arguments, evidence and clash, please select the winner on your own.
- No ties.
- ONLY if neither team meets their obligations, judges can award the “win” to the team with the best debate skills.
- In the event that there are an even number of judges, you may need to discuss your decision, but do not change your scores.
- Mark the winning team on your ballot
Job 2 – Speakers Points
- Please remember that each debater has a role; do not score based on the role, but on their performance.
- Complete the section of the ballot that deals with individual skills with the help of the judging rubric in your package.
- Rule of thumb: start with 3 as average and go up or down25 pts – practically impossible
20-24 – excellent debating skills
15-19 – good to very good skills
12-14 – below average skills
sub 12- possible but use sparingly - Submit your ballot to the Speaker.
Job 3 – Feedback
- Share feedback for each debater.
- Judges’ comments should be brief (1-2 minutes)
- Comments are not justifications. Your decision is final.
- Comments should be directed toward evidence, clash or presentation. Please be constructive.
Debaters appreciate advice on how to improve. - Not all judges need to comment.