Paradigm

Dawn Pittman
Samuel W Wolfson High School

My expectations depend on the debate/speech itself, but here’s what I generally look for in a strong debater/speaker:
1. Preparedness & Support – A well-prepared debater/speaker is easy to spot. I want to see strong evidence, clear organization, and solid reasoning behind your arguments. If you can’t back up your claims, they won’t hold much weight.
2. Delivery & Confidence – Volume, tone, and the way you present your points matter. I’m looking for debaters who speak with conviction and control. If you stumble, hesitate, or seem unsure of your stance, it will weaken your argument.
3. Persuasion & Presence – The best debaters can make me believe them, even if I personally disagree. If you can sell your argument with confidence, logical reasoning, and strong delivery, you’ll have an advantage.
4. Adaptability & Poise – Debate is about more than just making your case—it’s about responding under pressure. If you can hold your ground, stay composed, and effectively rebut your opponent’s points, you’ll stand out.

At the end of the day, I reward debaters/speakers who are well-prepared, confident, and persuasive in their delivery. Make me believe you, and you’ll earn my ballot.