Judges and debaters can use this ballot to keep track of your rounds’ arguments and feedback. We call the red and blue table a flow because it shows how the arguments run their course from one speech to the next. If you’re new, this video explainer might help.
You still have to submit your ballot on Tabroom, so copy and paste your feedback and RFD when done. If you’re a BDL coach or debater, please hit the submit button too!
Coolidge debates also include a 2-minute cross-examination block after each Constructive speech. This isn’t included on the flow because students are expected to land their points during the speeches themselves.
This format guide may help you identify the purpose of each speech. In a nutshell, students should be laying out their arguments in their first speech, responding to their opponents’ arguments in their second speech, and summarizing the debate in their third. No new arguments or evidence are allowed in a debater’s last speech.
Debaters each get 5 minutes of prep time during the round.
Coolidge debates emphasize accessibility and discourage arguments that are overly theoretical, dramatic, or spoken too quickly to follow. Here’s the official guidance if it helps.
Debate Ballot
Resolved: The United States federal government should abolish its Department of Education.
