Debate Tournament Rules

Debaters must be respectful of their opponents.

Debate tournaments require structure in order for debates to run smoothly. Debating often involves participants becoming very passionate, sometimes even heated, about the given topics. Rules facilitate the flow of an event and ensure that each debate is judged in a fair and consistent fashion. Although there are many styles of debates, most follow a very similar set of rules.

Director

Every debate tournament must select a director for the duration of the event. The director is responsible for all of the rules and procedures of the tournament. If there is a disagreement concerning the rules, the director will be the one to resolve the situation.

Resolutions

The tournament must present resolutions to reflect the affirmative argument of the debate. The affirmative side will defend the resolution, while the other side will attempt to disprove it. The burden of proof is on the affirmative team; they must prove the resolution to win. The range of topics for resolutions can include anything from facts to values, as well as propositions for policies.

Time Limits

The speaker must remain in the time limit set by the tournament. When a speaker goes over the given time limit by more than fifteen seconds the moderator of the debate must stop them. Each side of the debate must be given equal time to speak.

Interruptions

Debaters must not interrupt or distract the team speaking. This includes, but is not limited to, loud whispering and rustling of papers. At the discretion of the judge, interrupting the opposite team can lead to a deduction in points.

Visual Aids

Debaters are allowed to use props or visuals aids to help prove a point. If one side introduces a visual aid, the other team is allowed to use that object as a part of their argument after that.

Accuracy

Debaters are expected to be capable of supporting any assertions of fact. A debater may be required to defend a fact with a source, should a judge request one. Any debater who is determined by a judge to have fabricated information will be reported to the director. The director has the authority to then disqualify the debater from the tournament.

Terms

The terms of the resolution must be defined before the start of the debate. Defining the terms is the responsibility of the affirmative side. The team must not use truisms to define the terms of the resolution. If the terms are not accepted by the judge, the responsibility is given to the other team.

Notes

Debaters are allowed to bring notes for prepared debates and are also able to make notes throughout both impromptu and prepared debates. The debater must not read directly from a paper while speaking, unless it is to reference a quote.

References

• Alberta Debate: General Rules for Debate