A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL FORENSIC LEAGUE
V O LU M E 87 I S S U E 8 Rostrum A P R I L 2 0 1 3 SPEECH & DEBATE: Student Voices and the Common Core
PLUS: High School Speech & Debate Activities and College Readiness Summer Forensic Institute July 7 - 13, 2013 at Western Kentucky University
WKU team members, and former NFL finalists, Austin Groves, Darius Wilson, Jamaque Newberry , Lataya Williams, Alexis Elliott, Ian Dowty , Tyler Rife, Emma Wilczynski, Lindsey White, and Sarah Brazier. WKU SUMMER FORENSIC INSTITUTE The WKU Summer Forensic Institute (SFI) off ers personalized, intensive study in four major areas for senior division, and three major areas for junior division students. Tuition includes all meals, dorm fees, and instructional material. WKU’s SFI challenges students to become the very best and then gives them the tools needed to be champions. I f you want to compete like a champion, you need to work with the champions at WKU’s SFI !
July 7 - 13, 2013 $700 - out of state students Application Deadline: July 1, 2013 $500 - Kentucky students The most aff ordable summer $300 - commuter students (no meals or lodging) forensic institute around!
Take advatange of early registration! $650 - out of state students Discounted rates if you register $450 - Kentucky students by May 31! $250 - commuter students (no meals or lodging)
For more information, contact Jace Lux - [email protected] - 270-745-6340 WKU Forensics; 1906 College Heights Blvd. #51084; Bowling Green, KY 42101-1084 www.wkuforensics.com UniversityUniversity ofof TexasTexas NationalNational InstituteInstitute inin ForensicsForensics
! !"#$%&'()&'*"#+,,"#,&#"'-.%,Join us in Austin, /&#'&+'*! Texas ,#/),#&'*"#&)+0 in 2013! , TheThe UTNIF competitive would season like to is once now again in full congratulate swing and we all encourage of the very you fine to competitors keep the andUTNIF coaches in mind. who gaveIt is never their tooall atearly last tosummer’s begin thinking NFL National about plans Tourn forament the future in Indianapolis,and what you Indiana. will do to prepare yourself for the highest levels of competitive excellence. Choosing the UTNIF’s rigorous course of practice and study is a Asgood the step culmination in the right of alldirection. the passion, Join usdedication, next summer and hardand see work for of yourself the season, why thethe NFL UTNIF tournament is one of thetruly largest repres andents most the bestsuccessful of our speechcommunity. and debate In 2013, the UTNIFworkshops will continuein the country. to do its Our part alumni in contributing have won toLeague the NFL’s championships long tradition and of excellencefinal rounds and in integrity the House, in speechthe Senate, and Publicdebate Forum,education. Policy Debate, U.S. Extemp, Extemp Commentary, Impromptu Speaking, Dramatic Interpretation, Humorous As you begin the new competitive year, we encourage you to keep us in mind. Interpretation, Poetry, and more. Join us next summer and see for yourself why the UTNIF is one of the largest and most successful speech and debate workshops in the country. Our alumni have won NFL championships and NFL final rounds in the House, the Senate, Public Forum, Policy Debate, US Extemp, Extemp Commentary, Impromptu Speaking, Dramatic Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, Poetry and more.
UTNIFUTNIF www.utspeech.net Dept.Dept. of of Communication Communication Studies Studies www.utdebatecamp.comwww.utdebatecamp.com 11 University University Station, Station, A1105 A1105 phone: (512) 471-5518 Austin,Austin, TX TX 78705 78705 [email protected]@austin.utexas.edu Chief Air Guitar Officer. Chief I’m Still Cool Officer. Chief Got Your Back Officer. Chief Life Officer.
You’re the boss of your life. Your own Chief Life Officer – responsible for what happens today and planning for tomorrow. That’s why Lincoln Financial offers products designed to help you protect the ones you love, and secure your future. Ask your financial professional how Lincoln can help you take charge and be your own Chief Life Officer. Take charge at lincolnfinancial.com/clo.
Life. Income. Retirement. Group Benefits. Advice. You’re In Charge SM
Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation and insurance company affiliates, including The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, Fort Wayne, IN, and in New York, Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, Syracuse, NY. Variable products distributed by broker/dealer-affiliate Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc., Radnor, PA. Securities and investment advisory services offered through other affiliates. © 2011 Lincoln National Corporation. LCN1109-2059283 www.nationalforensicleague.org In this Issue : Volume 87 : Issue 8 : APRI L 2 0 1 3
From the Cover Inside 32 Student Voices and the Common Core 4 From the Editor by Michele Lamons-Raiford 5 2012-13 Topics 38 High School Speech & Debate Activities and College 60 Diamond Coach Readiness by Craig T. Cobane, Ph.D. and Jace T. Lux, Ed.D. Recognition 65 Donus D. Roberts Quad Features Ruby Coach Recognition 9 Announcement of Pending Board Action 71 Welcome New Schools 10 Beyond Convention: Fulfilling the Promise 73 Academic All Americans of Tradition in the 21st Century 74 by Don Crabtree, Pam Cady Wycoff, and Bro. Kevin Dalmasse Student Service Citations 76 Coach Profile: 16 2013 National Tournament Overview Byron R. Arthur 44 Writing LD Topics with Your Students: 78 n District i Detail: A Lesson Plan by Joe Vaughan Eastern Ohio 48 OPINION: Why Every Debate Tournament Should 80 NDCA Coaches' Corner Break Brackets by Kevin Coltin by Jason Sykes 53 AASHTO: Transportation Funding 86 by Frederick “Bud” Wright District Standings 57 History and Development of “NFL China” by Stefan Bauschard 68 Interpretation: The Trick Is, There is No Trick by Travis Kiger and Ganer Newman
Did you know? All of our webinars are archived on our website to be viewed at a later date. Visit www.nationalforensicleague.org/webinar and scroll down for a complete listing of past and upcoming sessions!
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 3 From the Editor Board of Directors Don Crabtree, President Park Hill High School Dear National Forensic League, 1909 6th Avenue St. Joseph, MO 64505 It is a busy and exciting time here at the national office! Our staff (816) 261-2661 continues to work closely with our local hosts to prepare for the [email protected] Birmingham Nationals in June. Updated hotel and competition venue Vice President information can be found starting on page 16. Please also check our Pam Cady Wycoff, Apple Valley High School tournament website for helpful updates at www.NFLnationals.org. 14450 Hayes Road Apple Valley, MN 55124-6796 This issue of Rostrum also extends our conversation about Common Core State Standards— (952) 431-8200 this time, delving into student perspectives on speech and debate and the impact those [email protected] activities have on their lives. Two authors from Western Kentucky University, longtime partners of the League, share their insights about the benefits of high school speech and Kandi King 6058 Gaelic debate and the critical role these activities play in preparing students to be on the cutting San Antonio, TX 78240 edge of college academics. Whether you are struggling to maintain your program, or looking (210) 641-6761 to expand, I hope you will find these articles beneficial in making the case for speech and [email protected] debate with parents, school administrators, and community members. Tommie Lindsey, Jr. Finally, I invite you to read the proposal regarding the naming of our organization, which can James Logan High School be found on pages 10-12 of this issue. Our Board of Directors has been working diligently to 1800 H Street Union City, CA 94587 bring this information to you, and we are eager to hear your feedback during one of several (510) 471-2520, Ext. 4408 virtual public meetings this month. For more information, and to register, please visit us online [email protected] at www.nationalforensicleague.org/PublicMeetings. Pamela K. McComas As always, please feel free to contact my office at [email protected] or Topeka High School (920) 748-6206 with any questions or suggestions you may have. 800 W. 10th Topeka, KS 66612-1687 Sincerely, (785) 295-3226 [email protected]
Timothy E. Sheaff
Dowling Catholic High School J. Scott Wunn 1400 Buffalo Road Executive Director West Des Moines, IA 50265 (515) 222-1035 [email protected]
Bro. Kevin Dalmasse, FSC, Admin Rep Powering speech. Pittsburgh Central Catholic High School Launching leaders. 4720 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15213-2952 (215) 514-2859 [email protected] Rostrum David Huston Colleyville Heritage High School A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL FORENSIC LEAGUE 5401 Heritage Avenue 125 Watson Street | PO Box 38 | Ripon, WI 54971-0038 | Phone (920) 748-6206 | Fax (920) 748-9478 Colleyville, TX 76034 (817) 305-4700, Ext. 214 [email protected] J. Scott Wunn, Editor and Publisher SUBSCRIPTION PRICES Steven Schappaugh Individuals: University School Vicki Pape, Assistant Editor $10 for one year | $15 for two years Epstein Center for the Arts 3375 SW 75th Ave Member Schools: Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33314-0000 Emily Hoffman, Graphic Design Assistant $5 for each additional subscription (954) 262-4409 [email protected] (USPS 471-180) (ISSN 1073-5526) Rostrum is published monthly (except June-August) by the National Forensic League, 125 Watson Street, PO Box James W. “Jay” Rye, III, Alternate 38, Ripon, WI 54971-0038. Periodical postage paid at Ripon, WI 54971. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the The Montgomery Academy above address. 3240 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Rostrum provides a forum for the forensic community. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and (334) 272-8210 not necessarily the opinions of the League, its officers, or its members. The National Forensic League does not [email protected] guarantee advertised products and services unless sold directly by the League.
4 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org 2012-2013
Award ent of the Year Topics District Stud Nominations APRIL 2013 Public Forum Debate Resolved: The continuation of current Calling All Coaches! U.S. anti-drug policies in Latin America Remember to nominate your outstanding will do more harm than good. seniors for this prestigious award.
Download the nomination M ARCH / APRIL 2013 form and learn more online! Lincoln-Douglas Debate http://goo.gl/JBxqv Resolved: The United States is justified in intervening in the internal political processes of Only District Students of the Year are eligible to other countries to attempt to stop receive the National Student of the Year Award. human rights abuses.
2012-13 Policy Debate Submit Submit Resolved: The United States federal Public Forum Lincoln-Douglas government should substantially topic ideas topic ideas increase its transportation infrastructure investment in the United States. Remember, coaches and students can use our convenient, online topic submission forms at: www.nationalforensicleague.org/topics 2013 NATIONAL TOURNAMENT Storytelling Theme Thanks for your time and consideration! Americana Lincoln-Douglas topic ideas are due April 15 for consideration in the 2013-2014 academic year.
The National Tournament topics for Public Forum and Lincoln-Douglas Debate will be announced May 1, 2013.
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 5 NationalNationalNational Federation Federation Federation of Stateof State of High State High School High School SchoolAssociations Associations Associations National Federation of State High School Associations
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NFHSNFHS Coach’s Coach’s Manual Manual for for Speech Speech and and Debate Debate NFHSNFHS Coach’s Coach’s Manual Manual for for Speech Speech and and Debate Debate TheThe NFHS NFHS Coach’s Coach’s Manual Manual for forSpeech Speech and and Debate Debate is designed is designed specifically specifically for fornovice novice coaches. coaches. The The manual manual contains contains information information TheThe NFHS NFHS Coach’s Coach’s Manual Manual for forSpeech Speech and and Debate Debate is designed is designed specifically specifically for fornovice novice coaches. coaches. The The manual manual contains contains information information on aon number a number of elements of elements of coaching, of coaching, including including contest contest descriptions, descriptions, finances, finances, travel, travel, judging, judging, attending attending tournaments, tournaments, and and build- build- on aon number a number of elements of elements of coaching, of coaching, including including contest contest descriptions, descriptions, finances, finances, travel, travel, judging, judging, attending attending tournaments, tournaments, and and build- build- ing ingand and developing developing a squad. a squad. The The loose-leaf loose-leaf notebook notebook format format makes makes it easy it easy to addto add information information specific specific to yourto your state. state. Cost Cost is is ing ingand and developing developing a squad. a squad. The The loose-leaf loose-leaf notebook notebook format format makes makes it easy it easy to addto add information information specific specific to yourto your state. state. Cost Cost is is $20.20$20.20 plus plus shipping shipping and and handling. handling. $20.20$20.20 plus plus shipping shipping and and handling. handling.
DVDsDVDs and and Videos Videos DVDsDVDs and and Videos Videos VideosVideos are areavailable available on aon variety a variety of topicsof topics including including Public Public Forum Forum Debate, Debate, Lincoln Lincoln Douglas Douglas Debate Debate and and Original Original Oration. Oration. Coming Coming soon: soon: free free unlim- unlim- VideosVideos are areavailable available on aon variety a variety of topicsof topics including including Public Public Forum Forum Debate, Debate, Lincoln Lincoln Douglas Douglas Debate Debate and and Original Original Oration. Oration. Coming Coming soon: soon: free free unlim- unlim- itedited online online access access to numerousto numerous video video examples examples of policyof policy debate. debate. itedited online online access access to numerousto numerous video video examples examples of policyof policy debate. debate. ToTo order order any any of of these these materials, materials, call call NFHS NFHS customer customer service service toll toll free free at at ToTo order order any any of of these these materials, materials, call call NFHS NFHS customer customer service service toll toll free free at at 1-800-776-34621-800-776-3462 1-800-776-34621-800-776-3462 oror order order online online at at www.nfhs.com. www.nfhs.com. oror order order online online at at www.nfhs.com. www.nfhs.com. Whitman National Debate Institute
WNDI 2013
Policy, LD, Public Forum July 21-August 9, 2013 (3 week Policy or LD Session) July 21-August 2, 2013 (2 week Policy or LD Session) August 2-9, 2013 (1 week Public Forum Session)
1. Individual attention 4 to 1 staff to student ratio and the vast majority of your time will be spent in small labs with four to eight people, not in huge faceless lectures and oversized classrooms.
2. Practice debates and drills In policy debate, you do 6 drills and 11 debates during the first two weeks; 4 practice debates with staff and a 5 round tournament during the third week. In LD and Public Forum, you do debates every third day plus drills daily culminating in tournaments.
3. Evidence and Arguments for Success Our staff research before the camp and you supplement staff research so you won’t go home with a few paltry pieces of evidence and you won’t spend endless hours as a research slave. You’ll leave with hundreds of pages of evidence.
4. Beautiful location and housing Whitman is located in Washington State. Modern, comfortable classrooms feature fast wireless Internet access with multiple computers and an excellent library. Residence rooms are comfortable, showers are private, and the lounges bring people together for fun.
5. Family feel with a great staff People at our camp feel connected, not isolated. You’ll work with our fantastic staff: Alex Zendeh (2nd, CEDA Nats), Katie Bergus (NPTE Top 15), Paul Montreiul (NDT 1st Round), Nigel Ramoz-Leslie (NPTE 2nd Place), Page Joki (NPTE Top 15), Nick Griffin (CEDA Nats 17th place), Lindsay VanLuvanne (CEDA Nats Elims), Carly Johnson (NPTE Top 25).
6. Transportation to and from the airport Whitman is easily accessed via plane or bus and we have shuttles to and from the Pasco and Walla Walla airports. We also have travel discounts for those living 450 or more miles away.
7. Cost Effective Compare prices. You will not find any camp that provides the individualized attention, quality of staff and instruction, and amenities we provide at anywhere near the price. See our web page for details.
ONLINE REGISTRATION, SEE OUR STAFF, AND MORE INFO AT: www.whitman.edu/debate/camp/ FORENSICSth INSTITUTE Dixie State University 225 S. 700 E. Camp in Policy Debate, St. George, UT 84770 Lincoln-Douglas35 Annual Debate, Steve Bringhurst Public Forum, and Individual Events (435) 652-7901 [email protected] JulySUN 21–August COUNTRY 3, 2013
— The Policy, LD and Public Forum programs offer an interactive learning environment for students of all levels (beginning, intermediate, advanced). Learning is targeted to both national circuit debaters and regional competitors. The instructional staff includes accomplishedThe Program collegiate and high school coaches as well as current Dixie State College features a “state of the art” computer lab. collegiate debaters who are former NFL, Catholic and TOC National 12 •Critiqued All evidence Rounds is shared. (tournament) qualifiers and finalists. • Every student has access to a computer and monitored Researchinternet. Facilities — Carol Shackelford (Bingham High, UT); Mike Shackelford (Rowland Hall, UT); Natalie Brisighella (Sky View High, UT); — Each student will receive three (3) hours of Travis Cochran (Southwestern U., TX); Kendra Doty (Idaho State); transferable college credit (COMM 2020). Matthew Gomez (Weber State, UT); Kirk Knutson (the Meadows, NV); AlexDiversified Kosmach Staff(Green Valley High, NV); Mark Middleton (West High, UT); — Winners of each varsity debate event will receive a Andrew Ridgeway (Idaho State); Judie Roberts (Skyline High, UT); scholarshipUniversity to CreditDixie State University. Catherine Shackelford (Weber State); Cindy Sidwell (Maeser Prep, UT); James Stevenson (Puget Sound, WA); Jake Tucker (USC); Mark — SCFI provides a safe environment where students will Veeder (U of U); Alex Velto (UNLV) feelScholarships connected to the staff and other students.
— Lectures focus on the topic, theory, and perspectives on different positions. Most lectures are "broken out" into targeted groups $705Atmosphere includes room (apartments/dorms, air conditioned, pool) based on experience levels. Labs focus on research, argument and board (lunch and dinner) CurriculumPolicyconstruction, practice debates, speaking exercises and comprehensive rebuttal reworks. Cost If traveling, fly in/out of Las Vegas, NV — Lectures focus on philosophy, values, criteria development, and $445 for commuters (no room and board) several relevant topics. Labs focus on affirmative and negative case Lab Fees (maximum): Policy $75 / LD $50 / Forum $35 construction, delivery, research, and practice debates. LD Lectures and labs focus on current events, crossfire cross examination skills, argumentation, clash, refutation, persuasion, and practice debates. www.scfi.wikispaces.com Public Forum — — Lectures and practice for all NFL events. Check Us Out and Register At IE
July 21–27, 2013 July 14–August 3, 2013 Coaches will receive lesson plans and training Features:Three intensive Week speaking drills, original in Policy debate, LD debate, Public Forum and research, advanced lectures, and practice debates. Coachesall NFL individual Workshop events. Policy$1095 includes & LD room, Camp board $465 includes room, board for commuters for commuters COST $330 COST $645 www.nationalforensicleague.org Leadership Announcement of Pending Board Action
he National Forensic League Board of Directors Notice of Virtual Public Meetings conducted a special virtual meeting on February 11, 2013. T Present were President Don Crabtree, Vice President NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors of Pam Cady Wycoff, Brother Kevin Dalmasse, Pam McComas, National Forensic League, a Wisconsin 501(c)3 not for profit Kandi King, Tim Sheaff, Tommie Lindsey, Jr., David Huston, and educational organization, will hold a series of virtual public Steven Schappaugh. Alternate Jay Rye was also present. Staff in meetings to discuss a proposed change in the name by which attendance included Executive Director J. Scott Wunn, Cherian the organization shall do business from “National Forensic Koshy, Vicki Pape, Adam F. Nelson, and Matt Delzer. League” to “National Speech and Debate Association.” It is important to note that the proposal does not eliminate Official Naming Proposal the legal name of the organization, National Forensic League. The National Forensic League, National Junior Forensic League, After two years of study by the Board of Directors, which and their protected marks would continue to represent the included professional branding and naming consultation, legal honorary societies of the organization. trademark consultation, nationwide membership surveying, summer District Chair meetings, the 2012 Summer Leadership The purpose of these virtual public meetings is to facilitate Conference, and numerous Board discussions on the matter, input on the part of the membership of the League and any the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors officially other interested parties regarding the proposed change. The recommended that the following proposal be considered by League’s Board of Directors is scheduled to vote on the the Board. proposed change on May 17, 2013. If approved, the League would take all necessary steps to ensure full implementation of the change by the Fall of 2014. Recommendation made by Executive Committee members Crabtree, Wycoff, and Dalmasse: “The organization, National All interested persons are invited to register for one of four Forensic League, should officially consider a change in the 90-minute virtual public meetings to learn more concerning name by which it does business to National Speech and the rationale for the proposed change and to express their Debate Association. National Forensic League, National Junior views. Forensic League, and their protected marks would continue to represent the honorary societies within the organization. Thursday, March 28 • 7 p.m. CST A series of virtual public meetings should be held between March 1 and April 30, 2013, in which the membership and all Wednesday, April 10 • 6 p.m. CST other interested parties are given the opportunity to gain Tuesday, April 16 • 7 p.m. CST clarity on the proposal and to voice their opinion. In addition, Monday, April 22 • 6 p.m. CST a survey should be made available to allow members an additional instrument to communicate thoughts to the Board. On May 17, 2013, the Board of Directors should consider For more information, and to register, please visit official action on the proposed name change.” www.nationalforensicleague.org/PublicMeetings. Passed: 9-0
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 9 Beyond Convention: Fulfilling the Promise of Tradition in the 21st Century
A Proposal from the National Forensic League Executive Committee
compiled by President Don Crabtree, Vice President Pam Cady Wycoff, and Admin Rep Brother Kevin Dalmasse
t its founding, the National organization’s brand, which has included Not only do we want to be the Forensic League was an the name by which we do business. organizational leader for speech and A educational honor society During this period, we have engaged in debate, we want to be the leading intended to motivate students to important conversations with our student advocate for these activities. Providing participate in and excel at speech and and coach members, long-time supporters the strongest community for speech debate activities. The work the League of the League, and past and present and debate means that we must be the does as an honor society remains a leaders to solicit valuable feedback. We number-one provider of resources for a cornerstone of our service to the speech have also consulted with branding and nationwide network of schools engaged and debate community. naming experts, trademark attorneys, and in speech and debate programs, and that Because our commitment to serve public relations professionals. Potentially we continue to provide the highest level the community is as steadfast today as it changing the name of a longstanding and of support and recognition for these was in 1925, the scope of our activities has well-respected organization is a task this activities. expanded to address the current needs body has taken very seriously. of our constituency. Our promise remains Our founding principles are just as What’s In a Name? the same: to provide the highest level of relevant today as they were in 1925. In fact, Last year’s naming audit and national recognition and support for the speech our mission is arguably more important survey results highlighted several of the and debate community. in an increasingly global environment. communication issues our organization Today, fulfilling that promise means Today, participation in speech and has faced in recent years. For starters, the breaking free of prior conventions that debate continues to transform the lives acronym “NFL” causes continual confusion may prevent us from reaching the highest of students by helping them become with the National Football League, both in levels of leadership, advocacy, and effective communicators and engaged, conversations and Internet searches. The programming in the world of speech and ethical members of our democratic survey also indicates that few of today’s debate. In an effort to do more for those society. With the implementation of the students know the definition of the word we serve and to mean more to Common Core State Standards, we find forensics (associating it instead with the those we represent, we work that our organization’s goals are aligned popular CSI TV series). Similar confusion at to maintain a keen awareness with these new educational benchmarks, the school, sponsor, and community level of our capabilities and our particularly in the areas of critical thinking, makes starting and sustaining programs strengths. Recently, this listening, and speaking skills, as well as difficult because the first conversation organization-wide self- college- and career-readiness. with key decision-makers must be about reflection has led to some Each year, the League serves more what “forensics” means. new ideas about how best than 120,000 students at more than 3,000 For the public—as well as the to present ourselves and our schools. However, this represents only membership—the purpose of the organization could be made clearer work to the world. 10% of the more than 30,000 secondary with a new name. Nearly 85% of survey schools across the country. At our current respondents use the terms speech, Background state of growth, we estimate it would take debate, or speech and debate when For the last two years, the National 100 years to achieve our vision of having a Forensic League Board of Directors National Forensic League-member speech has been engaged in a systematic and debate program in every middle and For a complete timeline of our strategic review examination of the merits of updating our high school in the nation. process, please see page 12.
10 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org
describing the purpose of our organization is what students value most about would better allow us to engage as to others. Of those who suggested a new participating in the League. In fact, this well as expand the number of students name, 78% preferred the use of those training is a significant factor in preparing who participate in speech and debate terms. In addition, the word association students for college and graduate programs and gain leadership experience. more clearly defines our focus and studies. A new, overarching name—one Finally, this new name would further expands the connotation that we are more that better reflects the expanse of our solidify our position as the undisputed than a competitive league, but rather, an mission—would allow our organization leader for speech and debate and help organization committed to giving youth to combine our curriculum-based us significantly increase our educational the essential educational tools necessary Common Core initiatives with the impact on tomorrow’s leaders. to thrive in the 21st century world. historical foundations of participation This two-year strategic review Being a part of the National Speech to maximize exposure of the benefits of process has shown a name change from and Debate Association will enhance speech and debate education, as well as “National Forensic League” to “National coaches’ credibility with parents, enhance our community and nationwide Speech and Debate Association” to be a school administrators, and community potential for support. viable option that should be considered members—allowing them to reach by the Board of Directors. more students and grow their programs. Conclusion Prior to a final decision being made Instead of spending time explaining that After much time and consideration, by the Board of Directors, we feel it is they’re not part of the football team or we feel the current name does not essential to give all interested parties investigating crime scenes after school, sufficiently convey the scope of our the opportunity to voice questions, teams can focus on attracting new mission and the power of our activity. opinions, support, and/or concern members, funders, and advocates to A new name would eliminate brand over the proposed name change. their programs because people will more confusion and allow the organization to Therefore, we have scheduled a series clearly understand what they do. Likewise, communicate our activities more easily of virtual public meetings by which on a broader scale, as an organization to potential members and sponsors. the membership can directly engage working on our members’ behalf, we can Online searches would be more in the discussion (see below). We look gain better in-roads into financial, media, accurate, increasing the awareness of forward to hearing your thoughts on this and educational support for the entire our organization’s leadership for speech proposed name change for the National community. The national organization will and debate programs. This name change Forensic League. also be able to reach out to new schools and expand our programming to help meet the needs of students around the country with greater ease and effectiveness.
Keeping with Tradition There is no question that even with We Want To Hear From You! a new name, the tenets of our code of honor—integrity, humility, respect, leadership, and service—would remain You are invited to register for one of four 90-minute virtual core values. One of the hallmarks of the National Forensic League has been its public meetings to learn more concerning the rationale for position as the national honor society for the proposed name change and to express your views. speech and debate. Given that the honor society status of the League is key to our members, the tradition, insignia, Thursday, March 28 • 7 p.m. CST and recognition steeped within our honor societies should remain intact. Wednesday, April 10 • 6 p.m. CST The National Junior Forensic League and the National Forensic League would Tuesday, April 16 • 7 p.m. CST continue to represent the honor society component of our organization. However, Monday, April 22 • 6 p.m. CST the honor society can only reach its true potential if the organization clearly establishes its value in areas beyond The League’s Board of Directors is scheduled to providing tournament opportunities and vote on the proposed change on May 17, 2013. honor society recognition. Beyond competition and recognition, For more information, and to register, please visit learning to communicate effectively www.nationalforensicleague.org/PublicMeetings.
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 11 Naming Timeline communication direction of the website, debuting a refreshed brand National Forensic League. She also campaign. presents findings on the League’s The Board of Directors engages in Fall 2005 | The Board of Directors name and its impact on branding naming discussions, including how best begins the process of formulating and options and potential outreach. As to protect the brand and honor society establishing a future vision for the a result of these recommendations, history. League, including its mission, goals, and the Board of Directors engages The Board of Directors engages Red strategic plan. Melissa Tatge Creative LLC to create a Rooster Group, Melissa Tatge Creative refreshed branding concept. LLC, and C. Blohm & Associates Inc. for Spring 2006 | The Board of Directors The Board initiates a search for a additional research on a small selection carries out its first formal strategic third-party consultant to perform a of potential names while examining planning session. naming audit of the National Forensic the benefits of maintaining “National League and report its findings and Forensic League” and “National Junior August 2006 | The Board of recommendations. Forensic League” to represent the Directors, regional leaders, and honorary society component of the members of the national office staff February 2012 | Red Rooster organization. attend the 2006 Summer Leadership Group is hired to perform a naming Conference and discuss strategic audit to determine the effectiveness November/December 2012 | The planning initiatives for the League. of the current name and propose Board of Directors conducts a series of recommendations. “Good to Great” leadership webinars in Fall/Winter 2006 | The Board which the agenda includes updates on of Directors conducts its first February/March 2012 | Red Rooster the progress of the naming discussions. development audit to examine Group and Melissa Tatge Creative the organization’s effectiveness LLC perform a nationwide survey December 2012 | Branding, naming, in membership, public relations, concerning the National Forensic and public relations consultants advise fundraising, and alumni development. League brand and name. In addition, the Board of Directors to consider one-on-one interviews are conducted changing the name by which it does Fall 2007 | The Board of Directors with regional leadership and select business to the “National Speech and creates action steps to achieve sponsors. Debate Association.” short- and long-term goals and objectives for the League in a series May 2012 | Red Rooster Group January 2013 | The Board of of comprehensive strategic planning and Melissa Tatge Creative LLC Directors engages its law firm, Michael sessions. present the Board of Directors with Best & Friedrich LLP, to conduct recommendations on naming. a complete investigation of the August 2009 | District leaders, name “National Speech and Debate members of the national office staff, June 2012 | The Board of Directors Association,” and to provide an and the Board of Directors attend the schedules meetings with District Chairs assessment of its viability. 2009 Summer Leadership Conference at the 2012 National Tournament to Michael Best & Friedrich LLP and facilitate ongoing discussions present findings, discuss ideas, and supplies the Board of Directors with a about strategic planning objectives. record feedback. 40-page document citing the research conducted and advises that the name May 2011 | The Board of Directors July 2012 | The Board of Directors appears viable for use. approves the hire of a third-party works in partnership with Melissa consultant to assess the National Tatge Creative LLC and Red Rooster February 2013 | The Executive Forensic League brand. Group to incorporate feedback from Committee of the Board of Directors the National Tournament meetings recommends that the proposed August 2011 | The Board of Directors in preparation for the 2012 Summer renaming be brought to a Board of participates in a two-day strategic Leadership Conference. Directors vote using a transparent and planning session, which includes formal process. branding discussions. August 2012 | The Board of The Board of Directors Directors, 120 regional leaders, and unaminously agrees to conduct a September 2011 | Melissa Tatge members of the national office series of virtual public meetings in Creative LLC is hired to engage in a staff attend a branding and naming March and April of 2013 to give all brand audit, including surveys of the presentation conducted by Melissa interested parties the opportunity to Board of Directors, staff, and leadership Tatge at the 2012 Summer Leadership voice questions, opinions, support, opinion. Conference and participate in and/or concern over the proposed substantive discussions on the issue. name change. The Board agrees that December 2011 | Melissa Tatge a vote on the proposed name will be Creative LLC presents findings September 2012 | The National conducted at its spring meeting on on branding and the future Forensic League launches its new May 17, 2013.
12 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 Simpson College is proud to host PUBLIC FORUM DEBATE CAMP JULY 7-12, 2013 Indianola, Iowa
$395 includes: $495 includes: Five day camp Five day camp w/lodging All meals except breakfast All meals
• Open to students entering grades 9-12 in SIMPSON AT-A-GLANCE the fall of 2013 • Excellent location: just minutes from Des Moines metro • The camp will include five days of direct • 4-4-1 calendar instruction, practice rounds and a camp tournament • Guaranteed internships • Unique study abroad programs • Students and coaches will be taught by some • Beautiful residential campus of the top debate instructors in the country • Cutting-edge curriculum • First-timers and experienced debaters • Outstanding value: 99% receive welcome financial assistance • Air-conditioned lodging • More than 75 clubs and organizations, 19 NCAA Division III • Evening activities and supervision provided teams and award-winning fine arts
Questions? Contact [email protected]
For registration information, visit www.simpson.edu/debate
2013 l inanciaiNCOln f l group / National Forensic League NAONATI L SPEECH & DEBATE TOURNAMENT
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF TOURNAMENT LOGISTICS
SUND ay • JUNE 16 (Registration) This year, the tournament registration and expo will take place on Sunday, June 16, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sheraton Birmingham in downtown Birmingham, AL. The Sheraton Birmingham is the BIRMINGHAM host hotel for the tournament and is located next to the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center where the final rounds and awards ceremony will be held. Schools staying in the recommended JUNE 16-21, 2013 properties will find this extremely convenient. MONDAY and tuesday • JUNE 17-18 (Preliminary Rounds/Early Elims/Host Party) There will be three venues used for the preliminary competition, June 17 and 18. The Sheraton The League is excited to return to Birmingham, located in downtown Birmingham, will host high school Congressional Debate. the city of Birmingham, which Spain Park High School and the adjacent Berry Middle School will host preliminary rounds of main will be a fantastic location for the 2013 National Tournament! debate events, while Hoover High School and the adjacent Robert F. Bumbus Middle School will To make planning easier, we host preliminary rounds of main speech events. All main event preliminary and early elimination have provided an overview of competition on Monday and Tuesday will occur between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. key logistical information. Please The local host party will take place in downtown Birmingham at the McWane Science Center and refer to the following pages for adjacent Alabama Theatre. Students eliminated from main event competition on Tuesday will essential venue and lodging re-register for Wednesday supplemental events at the McWane Science Center during the local information. Keep in mind that host party. all logistics are tentative and subject to change. WN ED ESDAY • JUNE 19 (Elimination Rounds/Supplemental Events) Two sites will be used on Wednesday, June 19. Students who qualify for elimination round 9 of all main event speech and debate events will compete at the Hoover High School There’s only one app Complex (including the adjacent Robert F. Bumpus Middle School) on Wednesday. High school you need to explore Congressional Debate semifinals will be held at the Sheraton Birmingham. Those students Birmingham’s finest re-registered for supplemental events will compete at the Hoover High School Complex on local destinations. Wednesday. All competition will occur between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Note: NJFL competition will The IN Guide is your one-stop begin at 8 a.m. Wednesday at Jackson-Olin High School (west of downtown Birmingham). source for reviews and directions for restaurants, attractions, and T HURSDAY • JUNE 20 (Elim Rounds/Supp/Cons Events/Interp Finals/Diamond Awards) much more! To download the On Thursday morning, debate elimination rounds will continue at Hoover High School. High smart phone app, follow this link: school Congressional Debate will hold its final round sessions at the Sheraton Birmingham. All http://birminghamal.org/app. supplemental and consolation events will occur at Hoover High School. Note: NJFL middle school competition will continue at 8 a.m. on Thursday at Jackson-Olin High School. On Thursday evening, attendees will enjoy the national final rounds of Humorous, Dramatic, and Duo Interpretation, as well as the Donus D. Roberts Diamond Ceremony at the Birmingham- Jefferson Convention Center.
FRIDA Y • JUNE 21 (Supp/Cons/Main Event Finals and National Awards Assembly) The remaining main event final rounds (Original Oratory, United States Extemp, International Extemp, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Policy Debate, and Public Forum Debate), as well as the supplemental and consolation event finals, will be held throughout the day on Friday, June 21 at Sheraton Birmingham the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center. On Friday evening, the National Awards Assembly (Registration / Congress Hotel) will also be held at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center.
GRAND NATIONAL SPONSOR SINCE 1995
16 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org
IMRN PO TA T CONSIDERATIONS WenSlectingh e and Reserving Hotels for the 2013 Birmingham Nationals
PLEASE READ BEFORE SELECTING LODGING!
1. All schools should stay at one of the League recommended hotels in downtown Birmingham or the Greater Birmingham/Hoover area. The lowest rates have been negotiated for our members. Please do not stay outside the block. The large volume of room sales within the block allows the League to continue to negotiate the most affordable rate list.Properties that do not appear on this list are likely inconvenient for participation in the tournament, including lack of safety, amenities, and proximity to restaurants and are providing no benefit to the overall cost of the tournament. Morning and afternoon traffic could add substantial time to your commute if you are located outside the block. In addition, hotels not on the list have no contractual obligation to the League, and therefore, we cannot provide any level of reservation protection at these properties. McWane Science Center (Re-Registration / Local Host Party) 2. When calling hotels, all coaches must mention the “NFL/National Forensic League” block to receive the posted rate. All room reservations within the block are subject to an automatic two-night non-refundable deposit per room at the time of booking. This avoids double booking and allows all attendees equal opportunity to book in the best available properties.
3. All hotel properties on the League’s list are easily accessible and are within 15-20 minutes by interstate or surface streets of competition venues. The tournament website will have downloadable maps from every hotel to the Birmingham Convention Center, the Birmingham- Shuttlesworth International Airport, and all competition sites. You can print all needed maps before ever leaving home.
4. The high school Congressional Debate Headquarters is the Sheraton Birmingham, located in downtown Birmingham. It is recommended that high school teams with Congressional debaters stay at the Sheraton or at one of the downtown properties located near it to avoid substantial rush hour traffic issues. These hotels are an excellent choice in both price and feature. Travel time between each hotel is less than a five-minute walk. The Sheraton Birmingham will host all rounds of Congressional Debate competition.
5. It is recommended that all coaches visit the individual websites of the hotels to determine which property fits the needs of their program. All hotels on the list are conveniently located to various aspects of the tournament. The Sheraton Birmingham and The Westin are the most conveniently located hotels for access to the high school Congressional Debate competition, registration, final rounds, and the National Awards Assembly. Schools are encouraged to book early as hotel blocks Alabama Theatre will fill up rather quickly. (Local Host Party)
6. Key Travel Times to Note: a. Sheraton and other downtown hotels to Schools (less than 20 minutes) b. Sheraton and other downtown hotels to Congressional Debate and finals (less than five-minute walk) c. All other Hotels to Schools (less than 20 minutes) d. All other Hotels to Congressional Debate and Finals (less than 20 minutes) e. Hoover High School to Spain Park High School (approx. 20 minutes)
7. PLEASE LOOK AT A MAP! Before reserving rooms, all coaches should consult a map of the Birmingham area to get a better perspective on travel logistics. Also look at downloadable maps Birmingham-Jefferson on the tournament website. The key to a less stressful week is to consider following the above Convention Center lodging suggestions provided by the national office. (Final Rounds / Awards Assembly)
Additional tournament information will be available at www.NFLnationals.org.
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 17 All notations are approximate. For our interactive Google map, see www.NFLnationals.org/hotels.
MAP OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth Int’l Airport 59 5900 Messer Airport Hwy 4 Birmingham, AL 35212
5
78 A D 25 11 20 CB 59 459 24 4 20 11 280 5 11 14 65
38
149 16 13 6 280 12 5 20 31 2 149 1 23 15 19
65 38 459
GH 26
18 9 3
22 7 21 38 119
17 150 31 E
459 F 8 10 2 mi 261
AMENITIES LEGEND: CB = Complimentary Breakfast | CI = Complimentary Internet | FC = Fitness Center | IP = Indoor Pool | OP = Outdoor Pool | R = Restaurant
Booking Tip: For prompt and accurate service, mention the "NFL / National Forensic League block" when reserving your rooms to receive the advertised rate for the National Tournament.
18 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 MAP HOTEL / WEBSITE CITY PHONE RATE Amenities Sheraton Birmingham Birmingham (800) 325-3535 $95 FC, IP, R D http://www.sheratonbirmingham.com T HS Congress Hotel Embassy Suites Hoover Hoover (205) 985-9994 $135 FC, IP 7 http://embassysuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/embassy-suites-birmingham-hoover-BHMHOES/index.html The Wynfrey Hotel Birmingham (205) 444-5707 $120 R 26 http://www.wynfrey.com Homewood Suites Hoover (205) 637-2900 $119 CB, CI, FC, IP 17 http://homewoodsuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/homewood-suites-by-hilton-birmingham-sw-riverchase-galleria-BHMHMHW/index.html The Westin Birmingham Birmingham (800) 325-3535 $119 FC, IP, R 25 http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3722 DoubleTree by Hilton Birmingham Birmingham (205) 933-9000 $109 CI, FC, IP 4 http://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/doubletree-by-hilton-hotel-birmingham-BHMDTDT/index.html Hampton Inn & Suites Hoover Hoover (205) 380-3300 $109 CB, CI, IP 9 http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/hampton-inn-and-suites-birmingham-hoover-galleria-BHMRCHX/index.html Hilton Birmingham Perimeter Park Birmingham (205) 967-2700 $109 CI, FC, IP, R 12 http://www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/hilton-birmingham-perimeter-park-BHMPPHF/index.html Residence Inn Hoover Hoover (205) 733-1655 $109 CB, CI, FC, OP 22 http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmrh-residence-inn-birmingham-hoover Courtyard Birmingham Colonnade Birmingham (800) 321-2211 $99 CI 2 http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmsc-courtyard-birmingham-colonnade Drury Inn & Suites Southeast Birmingham (800) 325-0720 $99 CB, CI, FC, IP, OP 5 http://www.druryhotels.com/Reservations.aspx?groupno=2113177 Drury Inn & Suites Southwest Birmingham (800) 325-0720 $99 CB, CI, FC, IP, OP 6 http://www.druryhotels.com/Reservations.aspx?groupno=2153468 Fairfield Inn & Suites Pelham (205) 987-9879 $99 CB, CI, IP 8 http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmfp-fairfield-inn-and-suites-birmingham-pelham-i-65/ Hampton Inn & Suites Pelham Pelham (205) 313-9500 $99 CB, CI, IP 10 http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/hampton-inn-and-suites-birmingham-pelham-i-65-BHMCVHX/index.html Hampton Inn Mountain Brook Birmingham (205) 870-7822 $99 CB, FC, IP 11 http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/hampton-inn-birmingham-mountain-brook-BHMMBHX/index.html Hilton Garden Inn Lakeshore Dr Birmingham (205) 314-0274 $99 CI, FC, IP, R 13 http://hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/hilton-garden-inn-birmingham-lakeshore-drive-BHMLDGI/index.html Marriott Birmingham Birmingham (888) 426-5171 $98 CI 20 http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmmc-birmingham-marriott SpringHill Suites Colonnade Birmingham (205) 969-8099 $98 CB, CI, FC, OP 23 http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmco-springhill-suites-birmingham-colonnade Holiday Inn Express & Suites Inverness Birmingham (888) 465-4329 $96 CB, FC, IP 15 http://www.hiexpress.com/inverness280 * * * NOTE: Use Group Code / Type – SPE 163455 / SMERF * * * Hyatt Place Hoover Hoover (205) 988-8444 $96 CB, CI, OP 18 http://birminghamhoover.place.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels-birminghamhoover-place/place/index.jsp?null Hyatt Place Inverness Birmingham (800) 992-0698 $96 CB, CI, OP 19 21 http://birminghaminverness.place.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels-birminghaminverness-place/place/index.jsp?null SpringHill Suites Downtown Birmingham (205) 322-8600 $96 CB, CI, FC, IP 24 http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bhmsd-springhill-suites-birmingham-downtown-at-uab Hilton Garden Inn Liberty Park Birmingham (205) 503-5220 $94 CB, CI, FC, IP, R 14 http://hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/alabama/hilton-garden-inn-birmingham-se-liberty-park-BHMLPGI/index.html Holiday Inn Homewood Homewood (205) 942-6070 $92 CI, FC, IP, R 16 http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/homewood/bhmls/hoteldetail Microtel Inn & Suites Hoover Hoover (205) 444-3033 $89 CB, CI, FC 21 http://www.microtelinn.com/hotels/alabama/hoover/microtel-inn-and-suites-hoover-galleria-mall/hotel-overview Comfort Inn & Suites Colonnade Birmingham (205) 968-3700 $69 CB, CI, OP 1 http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-birmingham-alabama-AL203 Days Inn Galleria Hoover (205) 985-7500 $65 CB, CI, FC, OP 3 http://www.daysinn.com/hotels/alabama/birmingham/days-inn-galleria-birmingham/hotel-overview
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 19 2013 VENUES 2013 HOTELS
1 A Birmingham-Jefferson Comfort Inn & Suites Colonnade Convention Center 4400 Colonnade Pkwy 2100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd North Birmingham, AL 35243 Birmingham, AL 35203
2 Courtyard Birmingham Colonnade B McWane Science Center 4300 Colonnade Pkwy 200 19th St North Birmingham, AL 35243 Birmingham, AL 35203
3 Days Inn Galleria 1800 Riverchase Dr Hoover, AL 35244 C Alabama Theatre 1817 3rd Ave North Birmingham, AL 35203
4 Double Tree by Hilton Birmingham 808 South 20th St T HS Congress Hotel Birmingham, AL 35205 D Sheraton Birmingham 2101 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd North Birmingham, AL 35203
5 Drury Inn & Suites Southeast 3510 Grandview Pkwy Birmingham, AL 35243
E Hoover High School 1000 Buccaneer Dr Hoover, AL 35244 6 Drury Inn & Suites Southwest 160 State Farm Pkwy Birmingham, AL 35209
F Robert F. Bumpus Middle School 6055 Fleming Pkwy 7 Embassy Suites Hoover Hoover, AL 35244 2960 John Hawkins Pkwy Hoover, AL 35244
G Spain Park High School 4700 Jaguar Dr 8 Fairfield Inn & Suites Hoover, AL 35242 230 Cahaba Valley Rd Pelham, AL 35124
H Berry Middle School 9 Hampton Inn & Suites Hoover 4500 Jaguar Dr 4520 Galleria Blvd Hoover, AL 35242 Hoover, AL 35244
20 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org
10 Hampton Inn & Suites Pelham 19 Hyatt Place Inverness 232 Cahaba Valley Rd 4686 Hwy 280 East Pelham, AL 35124 Birmingham, AL 35242
11 Hampton Inn Mountain Brook 2731 Hwy 280 South 20 Marriott Birmingham Birmingham, AL 35223 3590 Grandview Pkwy Birmingham, AL 35243
12 Hilton Birmingham Perimeter Park 8 Perimeter Park South Birmingham, AL 35243 21 Microtel Inn & Suites Hoover 500 Jackson Dr Hoover, AL 35244
13 Hilton Garden Inn Lakeshore Dr 520 Wildwood Circle North Birmingham, AL 35209 22 Residence Inn Hoover 2725 John Hawkins Pkwy Hoover, AL 35244
14 Hilton Garden Inn Liberty Park 2090 Urban Center Pkwy Birmingham, AL 35242
23 SpringHill Suites Colonnade 3950 Colonnade Pkwy 15 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Birmingham, AL 35243 Inverness 156 Resource Center Pkwy Birmingham, AL 35242
24 SpringHill Suites Downtown 2024 4th Ave South 16 Holiday Inn Homewood Birmingham, AL 35233 492 Wildwood Circle North Homewood, AL 35209
25 T he Westin Birmingham 17 Homewood Suites 2221 Richard Arringon Jr Blvd North 121 Riverchase Pkwy Birmingham, AL 35203 Hoover, AL 35244
18 Hyatt Place Hoover 26 T he Wynfrey Hotel 2980 John Hawkins Pkwy 1000 Riverchase Galleria Hoover, AL 35244 Birmingham, AL 35244
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 21 BIRMINGHAM TRANSPORTATION GUIDE
Hertz si the League's official rental car company. Whether you make reservations through hertz.com, a travel agency, or global online travel sites such as Orbitz, Travelocity, etc., use the League account code below. Some restrictions may apply. For more information, call 1-800-654-2240 or visit hertz.com today.
Meeting Services Reservations General Information To reserve your special meeting rates, please Meeting rates are guaranteed from one week prior through one provide your CV# to your corporate travel week after the meeting dates and are subject to availability. Advance reservations are recommended, blackout dates may department, or your travel agent, when making National Forensic League apply. Government surcharges, taxes, tax reimbursement, reservations. You can also make reservations online airport related fees, vehicle licensing fees and optional items, at Hertz.com or call Hertz directly: National Speech & Debate such as refueling or additional driver fees, are extra. Minimum rental age is 20 (age differential for 20-24 applies). Standard •In the U.S. and Canada: 1-800-654-2240 Tournament rental conditions, qualifications and return restrictions apply. In the continental U.S. and Canada weekend rentals are available •Other: 1-405-749-4434 Birmingham, AL for pick-up between noon Thursday and noon Sunday and must be returned no later than Monday at 11:59 p.m. Thursday pick- At the time of reservation, the meeting rates will be June 16-21, 2013 up requires a minimum three-day keep. Friday pick-up requires automatically compared to other Hertz rates and a minimum two-day keep, and Saturday and Sunday pick-up require a one-day keep. Weekly rentals are from five to seven you’ll be quoted the best comparable rate available. CV# 04JZ0004 days. Extra day rate for Weekly rentals will be charged at 1/5 of CV # 04JZ0004 the Weekly Rate.
Rates available from all Birmingham locations NeverLost® for rental start dates June 9-28, 2013 In-Car Navigation System Guides You Wherever You Want To Go Daily Weekend Weekly Car Class Per Day Per Day 5-7 Day SIRIUS® Satellite Radio A-ECONOMY $47.49 $28.49 $199.49 NeverLost uses the Global Positioning System Whether you’re looking for music, sports, news, (GPS) – with smart sensors to achieve the accuracy B-COMPACT $53.49 $31.49 $209.49 talk, entertainment, local traffic or weather, needed for true turn-by-turn guidance. It is the most C-MID-SIZE $57.49 $33.49 $222.49 SIRIUS® Satellite Radio offers over 130 channels advanced on-board system ever engineered by D-STANDARD 2/4 DR $60.49 $38.49 $238.49 including 69 channels of 100% commercial-free Magellan, a leader in satellite navigation F-FULLSIZE 4DR $63.49 $40.49 $254.49 music! Daily rental fee applies. technology. Daily rental fee applies. G-PREMIUM $68.49 $45.49 $289.49 I-LUXURY $88.49 $71.49 $389.49 Q4-MIDSIZE SUV $68.49 $48.49 $269.49 L-4WD/AWD SUV $82.49 $71.49 $369.49 R-MINIVAN 2WD $85.49 $73.49 $379.49 U-CONVERTIBLE $82.49 $71.49 $356.49
See you in Birmingham!
22 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 Show your achievement
Order your official Pins AND Keys!
Official National Forensic League pins and keys are a classic and stylish way to show of your degree of achievement. In addition, these items will be a treasured keepsake for years to come.
Gold coach keys and silver student keys are available in both 1 inch and 1.5 inch styles. Jewel accents can be ordered to indicate your level of achievement.
Visit the League’s online store for additional honor society insignia items.
Birmingham 2013 National Tournament Qualifier Pins are now available!
Order ONline: http://store.nationalforensicleague.org Natio T nals I EMS Available for Pre-Order
T-SHIRTS S–XL: $13 2XL–3XL: $15
WATER BOTTLES $10 each
High School - Forest Green Middle School - White
Pre-order your 2013 Birmingham Nationals t-shirts and 26 oz. stainless steel water bottles during online registration!
*Limited quantities available at tournament. Pre-ordering is recommended to ensure your size selection will be available.
1BIRMINGHAM2013 BARONS BIRMINGHAM SCHOOL BARONS AND DAYS
NATIONAL FORENSIC LEAGUE
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Game Time 3:00 p.m.
Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson Generals
TICKET PACKAGES
Single One General Admission Ticket to the game $5 Double One Reserved Baseline Box Ticket to the game $7 Triple One General Admission Ticket, one meal ticket (hot dog, chips, and canned soda) $11 Home Run One Reserved Baseline Box Ticket, one meal ticket $13
You must identify yourself as being with the National Forensic League to receive the discounted price. (Parents, chaperones, bus drivers, etc. WILL need a ticket to enter.) Orders are on a first come, first served basis. Place your order before the tickets are sold out!
***Orders must be received before May 20th***
For more information contact Steve Bayko at Fax your order to: (205) 536-7734 or (205) 536-7620
2013 National Forensic League Order Form
Group:______Contact: ______
Mailing Address: ______
City: ______State: ______ZIP Code: ______
Phone: ______Fax: ______Email: ______
Package Quantity Cost Subtotal Will Call * Make checks payable to: Birmingham Barons * Mail Single $5 $ Check #: ______Cash $ ______Double $7 $ Triple $11 $ Credit card: VISA MC AMEX DISC
Home Run $13 $ Card #: ______- ______- ______- ______Pre-order your 2013 Birmingham Nationals t-shirts and Order Total = $ ______+ Shipping (if mailed) = $3 Expiration: _____/_____ 26 oz. stainless steel water bottles during online registration! Total Amount Due = $ ______Signature: ______2013 NJFL MIDDLE SCHOOL TOURNAMENT LOGISTICS Middle School Details!
T entative Schedule T UESDAY • JUNE 18 Registration will be held 6 to 9 p.m. at the Sheraton Birmingham in downtown Birmingham, AL.
WN ED ESDAY • JUNE 19 Middle school competition will take place at Jackson-Olin HighSchool, just west of downtown Birmingham. Rounds begin at 8 a.m. and last until 8:30 p.m. The longer day accommodates the number of debate rounds needed; time has been built in for lunch. P lease Read Before T HURSDAY • JUNE 20 Selecting Lodging! Middle school competition continues at Jackson-Olin High School. Rounds begin at 8 a.m. and last until 8:30 p.m. The longer day accommodates the number of debate Please read the information rounds needed; time has been built in for lunch. for high school coaches, FRIDA Y • JUNE 21 relative to lodging (p. 16-21). Semifinal and final elimination rounds will be held at the Sheraton Birmingham and Please say “NFL / National the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Center. The awards assembly will commence at Forensic League” block when 3 p.m., followed by the high school awards assembly at 5 p.m., where middle school booking rooms, and only champions will be recognized. book with recommended hotels for the reasons listed. Important NJFL Dates All room reservations • Coaches can register online at www.joyoftournaments.com. within the block are Entries are due May 10. subject to an automatic • Congressional Debate legislation must be posted on the registration two-night non-refundable website by May 1. deposit per room at the • Orations must be posted on the registration website by May 20. time of booking. This • Media release forms, signed by each student’s parent/guardian, avoids double booking and must be submitted with fees by May 20. allows all attendees equal • All fees, including judge bond, must be received in the national office byMay 20. opportunity to book in the • A school/club risks forfeiting participation if fees and media release forms are not best available properties. received on time; a late fee of $200 will be assessed for fees and forms received All hotel properties on the after May 20. list are easily accessible and are within 15-20 minutes by Other Details interstate or surface streets • Coaches are asked to carefully review all tournament information at of every competition venue. www.nationalforensicleague.org/NJFLnationals. Maps from all listed hotels • Please note that this year, each school/club is limited to six entries per event. and competition venues will be available online at • We will continue to rigorously train high school student judges. We are requiring www.NFLnationals.org. middle schools to bring judges for each division in which they have students (CX, LD, or PF, Speech, and Congress) as a condition for registering. More details will be available on the website.
26 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 Florida Forensic Institute
Meet our staff who are Leading FFI t t t the March to Birmingham!
Ft. Lauderdale Don Crabtree (Curriculum Director) is the current President of the National Forensic League and an eight-diamond coach from Park Hill HS in Missouri. With 40 years of educational experience, Mr. Crabtree brings the Florida Forensic Institute his incomparable FFI alums continue expertise. their victorious march to Birmingham. CadMadoh e ws (Director of Public Forum Debate) currently serves as Debate Coach at Western Kentucky University. He has coached multiple students to late elimination rounds at the Tournament of Late January at Emory Champions, in addition to co-authoring Introduction to Public Forum saw FFI alums in PF elims, and Congressional Debate. Extemp Finals, OI Finals, the majority of the DI Finals, Ci hr stopher McDonald (Director of Extemporaneous the Champions in HI and Speaking) is the Director of Forensics at Eagan HS in Minnesota. Mr. McDonald boasts more national finalists and National Forensic OO, as well as a 1-2 finish League national champions in extemporaneous speaking than any in Congressional Debate. other school in the nation. February saw FFIers at the Lisa Miller (Director of Congressional Debate) holds the title of Harvard Invitational continue Director of Forensics at Nova HS in Florida. Ms. Miller has coached this with alums marching innumerable national finalists and four National Forensic League into late elims in every national champions in Congressional Debate. single speech event, as well as PF and a 1,2,3 finish in Jeff Hannan (Co-Director of Congressional Debate) is the Coach at Evanston Township HS in Illinois. He coached the 2012 National Congressional Debate! Champion in Congressional Debate and co-authored Introduction to Public Forum and Congressional Debate.
Check out our website to Ben Robin (Director of Original Oratory) is the platform events coach see FFI’s championship staff at Western Kentucky University. Under his tutelage, both high school and college competitors have reached countless national final rounds marching toward another and earned multiple national championships in oratorical events. winning season! Ganer Newman (Director of Interpretation Events) is the Dramatic Interpretation coach at Western Kentucky University and founder of C4 Debate, a nationwide consulting firm for high school forensic programs. Mr. Newman has coached multiple national final round participants and champions in every category of interpretation events at every level! www.ffi4n6.com July 19–August 2, 2013 • Extension August 2–5, 2013 Learn from THE BEST OF NATIONALS Gear up for Birmingham by watching past ChampionS Order your DVDs from the League’s store or stream videos online - for free - if you are a Resource Package subscriber!
http://store.nationalforensicleague.org Student sign ups have never Plus, we’re now offering been easier—no Website FRE E StuDENT ACCESS PIN Codes needed! with all Team Resource Package purchases! Individual Resource Package For a low, inclusive price, coaches and students can unlock their potential—it’s not too late. Here’s a quick overview of Team Resource Package the videos, classes, and other materials individuals can access! Larger teams may find it economical to upgrade to our Team Resource Package for additional discounts on National 3 (annual subscription) $18 per coach/student Tournament final round DVD sets, our 3 summer 2013 Online Institute, and more! FREE with Team Resource Package N EW! See below for details.
Current Year National Original Oratory – topic/ 3 Tournament Final Rounds concept database and Oratory $150 Active Schools available online, including Interp briefing (new books, studies, etc.) Simpl y check the box on your application events ($199 value) or renewal form—or upgrade online! Policy Debate – novice starter Fully Searchable, Multi-Year file, plus monthly 100-page update Script Database including all files and topic analysis videos Interp pieces performed at the – National Tournament in previous Lincoln-Douglas Debate FREE student access to 100-page evidence file including N years; search by year, category, Individual Resource Package EW! philosophical positions, case gender, and placement ($199 value) arguments and responses; topic FREE coach access to Expanded Webinar Series – analysis videos; philosopher’s includes topic analyses, coaching library (30+ videos) Individual Resource Package tips, and more; evening sessions are – recorded and archived online for Public Forum Debate 50% off purchase of current 100-page evidence file including members to view at a later date; at arguments, frameworks, and year National Tournament Final least one session per week! background; topic analysis videos Round DVD sets ($98 value) Weekly Congressional Debate and Extemp – includes two topic Additional 25% discount area video briefings: 20 practice Get that to summer 2013 Online Institute questions; two original pieces of (see next page for details) legislation extra edge
Watch our series of brief “how to” videos for helpful tips about signing up for online resources, registering for webinars, and more! Spark www.nationalforensicleague.org/ HowToVideos Success NEW! 2013 ONLINE
The National Forensic League is proud to provide online training opportunities to students and teachers this summer!
Workshops will include large group lectures and activities as well as small group sessions for more individualized attention. Additional information will be coming soon, including daily schedules for each session, presenter bios, and technical requirements. For more details, please visit us online: www.nationalforensicleague.org/ institute STRNGA TI int s itute J UNE 24 Each weeklong training session will help students develop the basic skills they need to get their start in the activity. Workshops are limited to 180 participants, so register early! STUDENT SESSIONS See discounts below!
Lincoln-Douglas Debate Congressional Debate JUNE 24 - 28 JULY 29 - AUGUST 2 Instructor: Dan Meyers Instructor: Adam J. Jacobi (two-diamond coach, Presentation HS, CA) (two-diamond coach; member of League staff; coach of 2005 and 2006 National Interpretation Events Champions) JULY 1 - 5 Instructor: TBA Extemporaneous Speaking AUGUST 7 - 11 Policy Debate Instructor: Christopher McDonald JULY 8 - 12 (three-diamond coach, Eagan HS, MN; coach Instructor: Tara Tate of 2003, 2005, and 2007 National Champions) (two-diamond coach, Glenbrook HS, IL) Public Forum Debate Original Oratory AUGUST 14 - 18 COACH SESSION JULY 15 - 19 Instructor: Carol Green Dennis Instructor: Ashley Mack (one-diamond coach, The Harker School, CA; The New Coaches Workshop is limited (experienced coach; collegiate instructor; coach of the 2012 National Champions) to 180 participants, so sign up early! former National Tournament finalist) FREE TO ALL COACHES! Please contact us if you wish to participate in more than one session. New Coaches Workshop JULY 22-26 Instructor: Cindi Timmons (three-diamond coach, Greenhill School, TX)
If you are a coach who will be starting a program in the fall or adding additional REGISTER BY JUNE 1st events, this is the workshop for you! This weeklong course will provide participants with strategies for recruiting National Forensic Team Resource Non-Members students, team management, registering League Members Package Subscribers for tournaments, and getting the most $350 per session $250 per session $187 per session out of League resources. Large and small (base price) (includes 25% (includes additional 25% group workshops will be conducted. member discount) subscriber discount)
www.nationalforensicleague.org/institute Questions? Email [email protected] Speech & Debate Student Voices and the Common Core
by Michele Lamons-Raiford s I enter into my twelfth year powerfully, to develop critical thinking of teaching and ninth year of skills, and to become aware of issues A coaching Pinole Valley High’s that impact the world today. It has been speech and debate team, I have embarked my personal mission to increase the on another expedition: a new and exciting number of minorities, students from low journey of both learning, and being at socio-economic backgrounds, and those the forefront of the implementation who some might not consider to be of, Common Core State Standards. As the “typical” debaters, like athletes. Our a teacher trainer, I learned the history team houses approximately 70 members. and depth of these new standards, and and this figure increases yearly. We are understand that sustaining and supporting members of the Golden Gate Speech forensic programs is both necessary and Association (www.ggsa.org), the California relevant to the mission of creating 21st High School Speech Association century learners who are both college (www.cahssa.org), and the National and career ready. Speech and debate Forensic League Speech & Debate Honor undoubtedly supports these goals. Society (www.nationalforensicleague.org). At Pinole, our speech and debate team is an extracurricular, afterschool Common Core and the activity that is open to all students from National Forensic League grades 9-12. It is comprised of several The National Forensic League has also categories of competitive events, which begun to embrace ”the grassroots state- are designed to better high school level initiated Common Core students’ argumentation, speaking style, movement.” 1 and performance abilities. The mission The Common Core State Standards of the Pinole Valley High School forensic emphasize…skills in public speaking team is to empower students to speak and debating are as critical as reading
(opposite) Pictured left to right are junior Leonard Eisen, junior Derrick Duren, coach Michele Lamons-Raiford, and senior Morvarid Mehdizadeh.
32 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org
and writing, and perhaps even Re-evaluating Personal Teaching and and debate, we are able to focus on a more in the 21st century, where the Learning Through Common Core specific topic, “conduct short as well as Internet has become more than just Like many educators, I know that my more sustained research,” and since we static text-based websites and emails. current teaching practices already have to be well-versed in both sides of Audio and video communication has encompass much of what the new arguments, we are forced to find and plunged literacy in critical listening Common Core State Standards are asking “evaluate” evidence from “multiple,” and effective speaking back to the me to do. As I delved into the standards “diverse,” and “authoritative” sources. forefront of needed skills, and to on a deeper level, I did not necessarily On the speech side, I am finding thrive as a nation in the new global change how I coached, but made sure that, for the speeches that are written knowledge economy, we must foster that I focused more on some aspects of by others to be interpreted, or by the students who are proficient with forensics that I felt benefit the mastery students themselves, the common core these necessary skills. 2 of the standards. standard RI.12.6. has been one I am Instead of relying on evidence giving more focus. By “analyzing how The League has also developed a side-by- purchased from many organizations that style and content contribute to the side chart that shows how the skills and compile hundreds of pages on political power, persuasiveness, or beauty of the activities practiced in speech and debate topics solely for forensic research, and text,” the students are able to deliver correlate with the Common Core in a in lieu of spending thousands on camps, another’s speech in a way one might section entitled “Meeting Common Core I encouraged my students to put into not have expected it to be interpreted, State Standards through Debating and practice W.12.7, W.12.8, RI.12.7, and RH.12.7. or it may help them to better convey Speaking Activities.” In core content areas, so much needs to their own speech so that the audience’s be covered over a year, but in speech reaction will be the one they intended. In addition, the Speaking and Language Standards are evident throughout all 1 http://www.nationalforensicleague.org/aspx/nav.aspx?navid=207andpnavid=194 forms of forensic competition. 2 Ibid.
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www.nationalforensicleague.org
Student Voices and the Common Core weigh credibility and relevance to create vitality. As a senior, I now realize to what I am a coach who utilizes alumni and the best possible case (RH.12.7, RH.12.1, extent I have grown with the help of my varsity members to help mentor the RH.12.4, RH.12.2). At the beginning of debating experiences. Whether writing younger generation, and in the same every debate, students must define every college-level research papers at a summer way, I often look to my students to give word in the resolution according to the program at Columbia University, writing me a better insight on many subjects. I ideas conveyed in their case (RI.12.4, college admission essays, or participating asked several students to consider the RH.12.4, RH.12.2, RH.12.5). Depending on in interviews, I have realized that I standards and how they might apply the resolution, students must analyze constantly practice my debating skills in them to what they do in forensics. Here and research historical and current U.S. various forms. are a few examples of reflections and documents to better support their My specialty, Policy Debate, is known analyses of forensics, and how they relate reasoning (RI.12.8, RI.12.9, RH.12.6). as the most rigorous form of debate to the Common Core from students In speech events such as Oratorical in which teams of two advocate for themselves. Interpretation, Dramatic Interpretation, and against a particular resolution. and Humorous Interpretation, students Each argument is supported by various must research the author of a given textual evidence, and requires a debater piece to better understand the audience to understand and effectively interpret and occasion of the original work academic materials and literary sources (RI.12.5, RI.12.6, RH.12.9). When students while integrating them into a coherent interpret the feelings authors intend to and explanatory framework, by also convey, they exercise skills that prove strategically providing one’s own original useful in interviews, performances, and thought. Although the resolution stays conversations throughout life. the same for an entire school year, this Derrick Duren, Junior I am grateful to have the opportunity still calls for extensive research and the My name is Derrick Duren, and I have to develop vital argumentative and preparation of substantial evidence been a member of Pinole Valley High communicational skills unlike some before every debate tournament in order School’s speech and debate team for schools in my district. The Common Core to provide a persuasive and accurate two years. During this span, I have done State Standards are, just as the name argument. various styles of forensics including suggests, providing fundamental strength Considering that an effective Public Forum, Parliamentary, Impromptu, on which the body of speech and debate argument requires both excellent and Oratorical Interpretation. When grows. content and delivery, our coach, Ms. my coach, Ms. Lamons, informed the Lamons, supports us through all our team about the Common Core State debate endeavors and ensures that Standards, I wasn’t surprised to find that we are prepared before every debate. our practices met the entire criterion. With her help, we practice our oral In debate events such as Policy, Public presentations and broaden our views of Forum, and Lincoln-Douglas, students diverse ideologies even before debate must conduct extensive research to find rounds, and learn to think critically by real-life statistics and facts to support practicing data analysis to interpret their position on a resolution (W.12.7, unique arguments and evaluate other W.12.8, W.12.9). Students exercise an Morvarid Mehdizadeh, Senior speakers’ reasoning and stances. This has impressive amount of independence and As a varsity Policy debater with four allowed me to become more confident in persistence in writing lengthy arguments consecutive years of experience, I can not only debating experiences, but also for both the affirmative and negative proudly say that every year has been as a speaker in everyday situations. During sides of a given resolution. Students a unique adventure, but also another interviews, I think on my feet; during class must also evaluate their sources and step toward a new level of intellectual discussions, I am capable of providing
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 35 original insight; and when writing papers, comply with the Common Core State presentable and compelling. Our work on I am able to merge unique arguments and Standards. this Prose met the purpose of Common support all claims with proper textual Every day of competition in forensics Core Standards W.12.5 and W.12.10, where evidence. is preceded by weeks of preparation. students learn to write routinely over However, it is not just debate that has In Policy Debate, we spend the entire a long period of time and strengthen helped me in academics. My academic school year researching for one topic. writing through revisions and cooperation courses have also assisted me during It’s essential to our success as a team with peers and advisors. In the end, our my debating experiences, as I use the that we stay up-to-date on the latest efforts paid off, as my performance knowledge I learn within my classroom developments and constantly compile qualified for the State Championship and apply them to my debate arguments. and read new evidence that may reshape tournament. For example, the knowledge of political the field of competition. In addition, we Forensics has become a major part regulations that I have acquired from AP must format this research into coherent of my life. I know that the lessons I’ve Government and Politics has assisted and persuasive arguments, advocating for learned through my participation in me in political arguments, while my a plan of action. This process correlates these events will benefit me throughout knowledge of science has assisted me in directly with Common Core State my academic career. I can now think biodiversity arguments. With the help Standards W.12.8, W.12.9, and RH.12.7, analytically and write and speak in an of speech and debate, I have enhanced in which we must learn how to gather expressive and convincing manner. I’ve my education and effectively prepared information from multiple sources, assess gained greater dedication and the ability myself for both college and a successful their strengths for our purpose, integrate to work as a team to achieve a common career by applying Common Core State them into our work, and utilize them in a goal. Most importantly, I am now a more Standards to my learning experiences. manner that maintains the flow of ideas informed citizen, with a genuine interest while leading to our solution. in social issues and current events. The topics we debate allow us to Without forensics, I wouldn’t be the examine issues of social relevance by young man I am today. relating them to political theories. In Lincoln-Douglas Debate, we must justify Conclusion a stance on controversial political issues The Common Core State Standards by upholding a value. These are derived augment teachers’ efforts to develop from philosophical and societal theories, lesson plans and pedagogy that support such as the Social Contract, Kant’s 21st century skills, reflect academic Leonard Eisen, Junior Categorical Imperative, and Utilitarian rigor, engage students, and promote My name is Leonard Eisen, and I am Ethics. By relating modern issues to these collaborative learning. Speech and debate a Junior at Pinole Valley High School. fundamental works, we achieve the teams allow coaches and students to do I’ve been a member of our speech and goals of Common Core State Standards the same. These standards are ones to be debate team for the past three years W.12.9b, RH.12.2, and RI.12.9, because we embraced and seen as yet another tool and have reached the varsity level of evaluate political documents of historical that we can use in our effort to teach our competition in several categories of both significance, determine their central ideas, students more than solely the content speech and debate. and apply them to the subject at hand. they need, but the skills they need to be My time in forensics has been The project I’ve spent the greatest college- and career-ready, and successful an incredibly rewarding experience. amount of time on is my Original Prose at anything and everything they set their I’ve learned to express myself with and Poetry piece. I wrote a 10-minute minds to do. confidence, witnessed the benefits of dramatic piece in which I played a teamwork, and achieved goals through Vietnam veteran with PTSD. The piece dedicated effort. Most importantly, I’ve went through a series of revisions over Michele Lamons-Raiford is a one- attained several academic skills that will the course of more than a year, in which diamond coach from Pinole Valley High both benefit me throughout life and I worked with my coach to make it both School in Pinole, California.
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Spark Insight: High School Speech & Debate Activities and College Readiness
by Craig T. Cobane, Ph.D. f you are a student and you are Memory and Jace T. Lux, Ed.D. reading this issue of Rostrum, Although good college courses do not I chances are that at some point a rely solely upon rote memorization, all parent, school representative, or even learning experiences involve some level a peer has discussed with you the issue of memorization and recall. Students who of college readiness nationwide. School have developed memory enhancement districts spend millions annually to make techniques, mnemonic devices, etc., sure that students are prepared to enter in high school, and have regularly had the world of higher education, and opportunities to practice these skills, are collaborations on readiness initiatives at a comparative advantage in college between high schools and colleges/ versus students who have not developed universities are becoming more and more such skills. prevalent. If you are a student and you are Students who have participated reading this issue of Rostrum, then you in competitive speech and debate are also likely a competitor in the activity are required to develop, hone, and of speech and debate—a fact which, practice their overall memory skills. whether you realize it or not, already puts Extemporaneous speakers must memorize you one step closer to being ready for sources, content, and structure in a college. short amount of time. Orators must Numerous articles and studies have memorize entire speeches and subsequent outlined the benefits one gains from changes to those speeches throughout participation in speech and debate, the season as new ballots provide new but few if any have done so within the critiques. Impromptu speakers must have context of college preparedness. In this dozens, if not hundreds, of examples at article, we argue that not only do speech their disposal for the construction of a and debate activities prepare students speech. Interp students must memorize for college, but that forensics can help scripts and blocking, as well as verbal and students be successful in college. nonverbal character choices.
38 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org
An experienced forensic student who ability to write and speak effectively. This at college with the knowledge base, the develops his/her memorization skills is is especially true at smaller private colleges inclination, and a level of comfort in unlikely to become confounded when and when enrolled in honors programs/ constantly appraising, critically assessing, asked to recall information on an exam, or colleges at larger public institutions. As a and questioning new information. This skill when asked to deliver a presentation from result of the smaller class sizes at these will be noted in a positive way by faculty memory. You are putting those skills to two types of educational institutions, a and will help the student to be successful. use now! higher premium is placed on writing and oral expression throughout the entirety Organization/Time Management Research of one’s college experience. The range If forensics is anything, it is a crash Higher education places a much greater of public speaking opportunities that course in time management! As a speech emphasis on in-depth quality research, speech and debate students have more and debate competitor, you often especially original research, than most than adequately prepares them for class find yourself juggling the composition, high schools. For example, one leading presentations and helps them stand out in memorization, and practicing of multiple expert in the field lists conducting discussion oriented classrooms. Williams, events at the same time—not to mention independent research and being a member et al. (2001) note that the most frequently the amount of time you spend away of a professor’s research team as two cited benefits of participation in debate from class when traveling to tournaments of the most important elements of an are enhanced public speaking and around the country, resulting in conflicting “ideal college education” (Duban, 2005). communication skills. Likewise, Littlefield priorities, made-up class work, and other For speech and debate participants, the (2001) reports that enhanced speaking and added pressures. Add to that some process of researching a topic for a debate communication skills were among the top semblance of maintaining a social life and or the background research required to three self-reported benefits of forensic possibly a part-time job, and the average develop the proper feel and nuance for participation among current students. forensic student has his or her plate full. Dramatic or Humorous Interpretation Freeley and Steinberg (2005) note that Research on college retention and is more like the research one would forensic participation provides training in success illustrates that being able to do in college than what is done in high argumentation, develops critical listening manage one’s time is critical, especially school. At many highly selective colleges skills, and encourages effective speech in the all-important first year of college. and honors programs/colleges, it is not composition and delivery. There are two ways to think about time uncommon for students to write multiple, Finally, one of the greatest struggles management, and both of them are lengthy, in-depth research papers in their most high school students experience developed through competitive speech freshman year. This is far different than going to college (especially highly and debate activities and are vital to the multiple choice based freshman selective private and honors colleges) success in college. First, “short-term” introductory courses found at many is understanding that what is deemed time management, which involves daily institutions. Forensic students who have “smart” or “intelligent” is not necessarily and weekly “to-do” lists, scheduling spent hours researching, discerning the the student with the “best answer,” time to read/study, etc. This is especially quality of sources, and cross-checking but the student who has the most important in the first year because college references are miles ahead of their “insightful questions.” Put another way, is much less structured than high school. colleagues whose research and writing students should be critically assessing and Second, and more important for experience in high school is more limited. questioning what they read and hear in academic stardom, is “long-term” time class, not simply writing down everything management. This is thinking and planning Communication as if it is the gospel. Students with a out beyond just the next semester. Two of the most important academic skills background in competitive speech and It is working with your advisors and higher education professors seek are the debate are much more likely to arrive having some ideas of what you want
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 39 to accomplish (and how you will do it) debate in high school helps you work is practice and there is practice. In the over the next four to five years. Most better in groups and as a team. Leadership 2010 book, Talent is Overrated, Geoff high school students see four years in a team setting is critical to not only Colvin makes the argument that hard work of college as a long time, but in reality academic success, but also becoming an and something he terms “deliberative it is a very short period of time and academic star in college. practice” is more responsible for world disappears quickly. It is important that Numerous scholars have documented class performace than just natural talent. those precious semesters (and summers) the obvious correlation between forensic Colvin argues the Tiger Woods, Jerry Rices, are used wisely. This means planning participation and leadership. Speaking Mozarts, and Bill Gates of the world were semesters/years ahead for study abroad, of the National Forensic substantive internships, research, and the League, Radabaugh (1960) taking of post-college exams (i.e., LSAT, states, “The purpose of “Speech and debate students MCAT, GRE, etc.). Additionally, you are the League is to assist learn to internalize the idea of filling out countless graduate school and students to prepare for national scholarship applications, you are leadership through the constant improvement; they completing senior/honors projects, and ability to command a you are taking challenging courses. The following by the effective will revise speeches, spend time yearly arc of preparations, competition, presentation of ideas” preparing for tournaments, and tournaments found in high school (p. 47). The promotion of speech and debate helps prepare students leadership skills through and push their peers to for thinking beyond just the next week or participation also is a perform better.” semester. fixture of collegiate forensics. The first line Leadership of the American Forensic Association’s not born with so much natural talent that Leadership is a key attribute for success in credo states, “Our principle is the power they were destined to be great, but that college. Although not quite as important of individuals to participate with others their commitment to deliberative practice a variable in overall retention, leadership in shaping their world” (American Forensic is what made them great. According to does play a very important role in getting Association Website, 2013). Bartanen Colvin, deliberative practice is practice the most out of your four years of (1998) states that forensic programs that is designed, can be repeated a lot, college. First, most private and honors “foster leadership skills of reflection, requires constant feedback, is highly colleges, ask about and look for examples connectedness, and advocacy” (p. 1). demanding mentally, and is not always of (and potential for) leadership in your Colbert and Biggers (1985) site a 1960 study much fun. Colvin’s concept of deliberative application. Additionally, if success in of political leaders including members of practice describes well the training and college is measured by what you learn Congress, senators, and Supreme Court practice regiment of students who and get out of your college experience, justices. Ninety percent of respondents participate in competitive speech and then leadership is key. Using your called their high school or collegiate debate. Students who have internalized leadership skills by being involved in clubs, debate experiences “very helpful” or the concept of deliberative practice are organizations, student government, etc., “invaluable” in developing their careers as going to be successful in college. in a meaningful, value-added manner leaders. Finally, students who are consciously helps you balance your academic gains or unconsciously implementing this with interpersonal skills that are crucial Deliberate Practice concept have another attribute that will throughout your future professional life. We have all heard our parents, teachers, serve them well in college: they are not Additionally, leadership skills developed coaches, etc., tell us the importance of striving for “good enough.” They practice through participation in speech and practice in making us successful, but there because they want to be the best and
40 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 The NaTioNal ForeNsic league invites you to join three free webinars in April led by AcceptU, a college counseling group comprised entirely of former college admissions officers. Get inside knowledge and advice on how to best prepare yourself for success in the college admissions process.
Planning for SucceSS in the college admiSSionS ProceSS aPril 9 8 pm EST for students and parents of middle school, 9th & 10th graders inSide the college admiSSionS office for students and parents of 9th, 10th & 11th graders aPril 17 8 pm EST aPPlying to college in the united StateS for international students and parents aPril 22 8 am EST
Space is limited. to register, visit: http://learnmore.acceptu.com/theleague
for more information on acceptu, visit: www.AcceptU.com.
Co-sponsored by the National Forensic League and AcceptU. show constant improvement. Speech and with intentionality, organize and manage Looking debate students learn to internalize the your time can help you have a successful idea of constant improvement; they will college experience. Speech and debate for college revise speeches, spend time preparing participants should stay the course for tournaments, and push their peers and continue competing in high school scholarships? to perform better. This desire to keep forensics. While those long nights, bus practicing intentionally and striving rides, and bad tournament food may not for constant improvement, developed always seem worth it, if college is in your through participation in competitive future, you could find no better training Look no further. forensics, will not only lead to college ground than a forensic tournament. success, but academic stardom. Craig T. Cobane, Ph.D., is the Jarve Endowed Professor in Honors at Conclusion Western Kentucky University and serves To claim that speech and debate as both the Executive Director of the Honors College and the university’s participation alone will lead to success in Chief International Officer. His college is a fallacious argument, and one academic background is international that we would never make. However, relations/security studies, but he is also the author of a number of articles on as a supplement to skilled high school working with high achieving students education in the classroom, other extra- and building Honors Colleges/Programs.
curricular activities, and college prep Jace T. Lux, Ed.D., is the Director courses, a speech and debate background of Forensics at Western Kentucky University. He has helped transform can instill many of the characteristics that the WKU forensic team into the most American Legion for years have been deemed essential to successful college program in the country over the past decade in both college preparedness and success. The individual events and Lincoln-Douglas Oratorical Contest ability to research, communicate, practice Debate.
References Visit www.legion.org/oratorical for more information. American Forensic Association Website. Retrieved February 19, 2013, from http://www.afa-niet.org. Bartanen, K. M. (1998). The place of the forensics program in the liberal arts college of the twenty-first century: An essay in honor of Larry E. Norton. Forensic, 84, 1-15. Duban, J. (2005). The Complete Guide to Academic Stardom. Victoria, Canada: Trafford. Colbert, K. & Biggers, T. (1985). The forum: Why should we support debate? Journal of the American Forensic Association, 21, 237-240. Colvin, G. (2010). Talent is Overrated: What Really Separates World-Class Performers from Everybody Else. London: Penguin Books. Freeley, A. J., & Steinberg, D. L. (2005). Argumentation and Debate (11th ed.). Belmont, CA: Thomson-Wadsworth. Littlefield, R. S. (2001). High school student perceptions of the efficacy of debate participation. Argumentation and Advocacy, 38, 83-97. Radabaugh, J. S. (1960). Speech and the National Forensic League. Western Speech, 24, 47- 49. Williams, D. E., McGee, B. R., & Worth, D. S. (2001). University student perceptions of the efficacy of debate participation: An empirical investigation. Argumentation and Advocacy, 37, 198-209. Schedule an audition!
Western Kentucky University
Austin Groves, class of 2015 and Lindsey White, class of 2014.
THIS IS WKU FORENSICS To the University, Forensics is an opportunity to demonstrate academic excellence, to excel in competition of the intellect, and to extend the academic atmosphere. To the student, Forensics is an opportunity to cultivate life-long friendships, travel the country, and do what you love.
PASSION • HUMILITY • UNITY • SERVICE • GRATITUDE
SAVE THE DATE! The WKU SUMMER FORENSIC INSTITUTE will be held July 7-13, 2013!
Jace Lux; WKU Forensics; 1906 College Heights Blvd. #51084; Bowling Green, KY 42101-1084 email: [email protected] phone: 270-745-6340 Lincoln-Douglas
Writing LD Topics with Your Students: A Lesson Plan
by Joe Vaughan or the past several years, I That’s a terrible topic!” I usually press have had the opportunity at my students to articulate what it is that F the National Speech & Debate they don’t like about the topic, which Tournament to work with a great bunch usually brings them to a sputtering halt. of coaches on the Lincoln-Douglas This knee-jerk reaction comes from Topic Wording Committee. We take the unfamiliarity with the topic, rather than topics and suggestions submitted by an actual dislike of the topic itself. Yet, the membership and wrestle with the there are certain topics, after we have wording to attempt to create balanced debated them that students have liked, and interesting topics that can sustain two and disliked, more than others. Before months of debate and research. students write their own topics, they To write a good topic requires an should first look at old topics that they understanding of how wording determines have debated to describe what they liked the burdens for each side, the division of and did not like about these topics. This ground and the overall scope of the topic. first lesson of this cycle asks the students It struck me that topic writing is therefore to attempt to discover for themselves a great activity for students to engage in what they believe to be the structure and toward the end of year as the competition content of that elusive “perfect topic.” season winds down. Begin the lesson by giving out the The following is a set of lesson past year or two worth of topics; if plans that can be used as an authentic this is a freshman class, it probably is summative assessment for students in a good just to use the topics with which debate class or as a culminating activity the students have direct experience. for your squad for the year. Although Separate the students into groups, have this plan is written to be about Lincoln- each group select a recorder, and pose Douglas Topics, there is no reason that the the following question to the group: “Of same process could not be applied to a this list, which one or two were the best project surrounding Public Forum. resolutions to debate and which were the worst one or two?” Tell them that Lesson 1: Analysis of Old Topics they need to come to a consensus as a I’m sure most other coaches hear the group and then let them at it. After an same thing I hear when the new topic initial amount of time, when it seems the gets released: “Oh no! Not that topic! discussion is flagging, pose the next set of
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questions: “As you decide which are the prior discussion. Have the students note rights,” “international relations,” “tax best and worst resolutions, also be sure particular grammatical structures or word policy,” or “fairness in the judicial to have three or four good arguments choices that caused problems for those system.” for WHY these resolutions were best or resolutions Resolution Suggestion #1 – This field worst. Was there some problem with the At the end of this discussion, the goal is for a wording suggestion under this wording? Was it the types of arguments is that students will be able to write a general topic area.. that their opponents used? Was it sentence that says, “A good LD resolution Resolution Justification/Analysis something inherent about the topic area? is one that. . .” In LD parlance, you are #1 – This field is to explain what that Some other reason?” Remind them to asking your class to create a group value particular wording for the resolution have their recorders write down specific criterion that can be used to separate a accomplishes. I suggest that this field reasons. good resolution from one that is not so be used to explain what the author of When the discussion begins to peter good. In fact, their homework for next the resolution intends to be the major out again, give the students a one-minute class should be to write that sentence. warning before the whole group will points of clash in this topic area, what the division of ground between the reconvene and remind them that the Lesson 2: Introduction of the Concept affirmative and negative ought to be recorder will be sharing the discussion of of Writing New Topics and why they picked particular words, each group. When you bring the group Begin the next class by having students terms of art or clauses. back together, begin by polling the read their sentences aloud. Have the groups about their favorite resolutions students come to a consensus on which The form then allows for three and the reasons why those resolutions sentence (or compound of several additional wording suggestions were their favorites. Hopefully some sentences) will guide the class as to what and fields to justify those wording of their reasons for why the resolution will be a good resolution. Little do they choices. Often, it is helpful to think was good would be that the topic area know that this very sentence will become of multiple possible wordings rather was interesting, there was clarity to the a substantial portion of the rubric by than obsessing to find the “one meaning of the resolution, there was a which the culminating assignment of this perfect wording” when brainstorming. balance between the sides, there was unit will be graded. When students have Obviously, as a committee, we obsess a depth to the research possibilities a hand in sculpting the standards for since we have to put out a final available, and that the resolution did excellence by which they will be assessed, product to the community. not get stale after two months of it is more likely that they will understand debate. These are the stated goals of the Bibliography – It is important that their grades as being true reflections of Wording Committee when we meet. the students can substantiate that the quality of the work they produce. It Whatever the students mention, the topic has research to back each is going to be important that you write record the information on the board for side of the topic. Minimally, each down the exact text of the sentence on everyone’s inspection. I find that when grouping of topics should be able to which the class decides. reporting out from groups that I do not find two articles that lay out the basic Introduce let the students argue or disagree with conflict of their proposed resolution the students to each other and simply allow for the Submit without too heavily taking sides (with the assignment opportunity for reporting until everyone’s Lincoln-Douglas a hopefully expansive bibliographies that they will be opinions are heard. The only questions topic ideas of their own), two articles that are aff completing: writing I allow of the recorder are questions biased and two articles that are neg a proposal for a of clarification. When similarities in biased. topic to be submitted to the National groups’ ideas occur, be sure to note Forensic League. At this point, it would this. When all groups have reported out, From here, as the teacher, you have be a good idea to show the students the ask for discussion or comments about an important choice to make: will topic submission form located online at overlapping areas of agreement or on the students be turning in individual www.nationalforensicleague.org/topics. places of disagreement. Wrap up the assignments, or will this be a group When you click that link, show the lesson by polling the students about project? Each form has its pros and cons. students that a topic suggestion should their least favorite resolutions and the I would tend to think that groups will consist of the following parts: reasons for these opinions. Hopefully, this produce superior products, as students discussion is merely the inverse of your A general topic area such as “citizens’ will have other people to bounce their
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 45 ideas off of, much like we do during Definitions (with citations) of each suggestions about their particular our Wording Committee meetings. relevant word or term of art they wording and why or why not that However, the inevitable problem with used in their wording. feedback caused a change in their all group work is the distribution of A statement of what they proposed wording. This part of the effort and mechanisms to be sure that perceive to be the critical project is effectively an assessment of each student will receive the grade they philosophical question(s) that their the health of the group. individually earned rather than riding on resolution addresses. the coattails of the group. I suggest doing The entire group will hand in part one A statement of what they this as a group assignment (of two to four together with each student handing in perceive to be the division of students) and will offer a way to address their own parts two and three. After ground between the aff and neg the primary concern. giving the students a chance to ask and why their wording makes that From here, rather than actually questions about the assignment’s parts, division of ground clear. handing out the assignment, divide the you should hand out the rubric. It is up students into groups or conduct a class Three possible affirmative and to you to construct the appropriate brainstorming project. I find that doing negative position theses that rubric for how you tend to allocate too much “this is what we are going to could run on this resolution. points in your class. The one thing to be doing” in a single class period tends to These positions only need to be a make certain is that your rubric should bore the students. Having gone through sentence long that describes the explicitly reference the sentence the class constructed. In fact, I would have the structure of a proposal’s format, tell general thrust of what the case that sentence on the handout for the them that you will review the actual position would argue. assignment and the rubric. As a final structure of their assignment during the An annotated bibliography of six incentive, I would set up a system by next class and give them the remainder of sources where two of the sources which any project that receives an the period to come up with two or three describe the essential conflict “A” will have their project submitted topic areas that the group thinks might in the resolution, two aff-biased to the National Forensic League as a be worthy to construct a resolution sources and two neg-biased formal proposal for a topic for the next around, with the understanding that the sources. The annotation should competitive season. group needs to come to a consensus by be two to three sentences that the next class. For inspiration, you can highlight the thesis of each article. Day 4 and Beyond: The Work Process distribute the list of past topics which is 2) The individual response – Each From here, the students should be given available on www.nationalforensicleague. student in the group needs to write copious amounts of time to work in org on the same page on which the a reflection on how the resolution class. They will need access to research submission button was located. that they wrote addresses the materials during their work. I would set sentence that the class decided upon up some interim checkpoints: Lesson 3: Introduce the Assignment as the guideline for what a good If you broke the students into groups, There should be an initial “pitch LD resolution looks like. Since that give the students the first few minutes day” in which each group member sentence will have to be a compound of class in their groups to decide on a will need at least a rough wording sentence, the student should make it final topic area. Reconvene the class suggestion for their topic. On clear how their resolution conforms and hand out the assignment sheet. The the first pitch day, have each to EACH part of that sentence. assignment has three parts: group meet with each student 3) The group reflection – It is really bringing in their proposed wording 1) The proposal – The students need difficult to come up with a perfect written down. The student to come up with a topic area with resolution by yourself. Part of this should have one page with the one wording suggestion per member project will have the students pitching wording on it for each group in their group. The proposal should ideas to each other and getting member and one for you. Each clearly indicate which student is the feedback from their group members. student is given two minutes to primary author of which suggestion. In this section of the assignment, pitch ideas to the group. After Each wording needs a justification that each student will reflect on the ways this, the group will have three to includes these five items: in which their group members made four minutes to make comments
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about the wording or proposal. The student who pitched the proposal should not talk during this discussion unless a direct clarification question is asked, but should be writing down the comments. It is important early in the process that the students hear feedback. If allowed to talk, they will spend the time coming up with counterarguments to the suggestions rather than really listening. The National Forensic League is proud The annotated bibliography. to partner with William S. Hein & Co. to A second pitch day very close to provide all League members with access the final due date of the project. On this date, the groups should to HeinOnline—an outstanding source of have extended conversations legal scholarship normally only available to about each topic suggestion with law students and legal professionals—at no actual arguments. Depending on the length or your periods and the additional cost. number of students in each group, you might need two days for this. According to Hein: “HeinOnline is Hein’s The students should leave the second pitch day with finalized premier online research product with versions of the wording agreed more than 80 million pages of legal history upon by the group that they will available in a fully searchable, image-based propose. format. HeinOnline bridges the gap in legal This project is a solid, culminating history by providing comprehensive coverage experience for debate students and gives them an understanding of how hard it from inception of more than 1,600 law and is to create “the perfect topic.” It will law-related periodicals, and much more.” also improve their ability to analyze new topics as well as bolster their research skills. As a member of the Wording Perfect for debaters and extempers, Committee, I look forward to seeing what HeinOnline is now available as yet another your students suggest! benefit of League membership!
Joe Vaughan is a physics teacher as well as forensic coach at Scarsdale High Click here to sign in and access the service: School, NY. Joe is a two-diamond coach, www.nationalforensicleague.org/aspx/heinonline.aspx the chair of the New York State District, and presently a member of the LD Wording Committee.
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Why Every Debate Tournament Should Break Brackets
by Kevin Coltin hen two Lincoln-Douglas begin breaking brackets. Contrary to debaters or two Policy or popular belief, the Tournament of W Public Forum teams from Champions does not currently have the same school are seeded to face a rule preventing bid tournaments each other in elimination rounds, there from breaking brackets, according to are two options. (For brevity, I will refer tournament director Andrea Reed. only to LD debaters, but the same logic With no rule against it, I hope that an applies to partner debate events.) The honest evaluation of the practice will first option, which is the most common convince tournament directors that the at national circuit tournaments, is to benefits far exceed the costs. ask the debaters’ coach to choose one The League’s rules for the District of the two debaters, usually the higher and National Tournaments forbid seeded one, to advance without a breaking brackets—however, breaking debate. The other debater is eliminated brackets has a slightly different meaning from the tournament. in this context since these tournaments The second option, known as use a double elimination rather than “breaking brackets,” is to rearrange round robin system. What is important the tournament bracket to avoid this is that avoiding teammate matchups conflict. For example, if the first- and is one of the top priorities at these eighth-seeded debaters in quarterfinals tournaments, which means that such are from the same school, the first matchups rarely occur. seed will debate the seventh seed and Breaking brackets avoids three the two seed will debate the eighth difficult and unfair occurrences. First, seed, instead of one debating eight it avoids giving one debater a free win. and two debating seven as it would be There is a reason that byes in power- otherwise. The seeds are changed as matched prelim rounds, a necessary little as is necessary to avoid any intra- evil, are always given to low-seeded team matchups. debaters who are usually ineligible to The norm at national circuit break. No tournament director would tournaments is to never break brackets. want to make it easier to advance I believe this standard is misguided, further in the tournament by awarding and that more tournaments should a free win to a winning debater; if
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it would be bad enough to do so in the lower seed is a senior at the end The similarities here are striking: prelims, it seems to me far worse to of a strong career. Even with those seeding in both debate and the NCAA do so in outrounds. It tends to favor coaches who always advance the higher Tournament is based on a combination the best debaters from strong schools, seed without exception, the “losing” of win-loss record and subjective precisely those who least need an extra debater may still feel treated unfairly: opinions, of school athletic directors advantage. Ghost bids, where both consistency is little consolation when and of debate judges. Both the debaters receive TOC bids merely for he is sitting at home during the TOC. Olympics and the NCAA, whose ranking making it to the round before the bid, It should be unacceptable to put any criteria are more objective and based are unfair to the remaining debaters debater or coach in such an utterly on dozens or hundreds of matches in the round who have to win a tough avoidable dilemma. rather than six or fewer, recognize that debate in order to earn a bid. Worse, All of this is compounded by the precise fidelity to an imprecise ranking there have been at least two times in fact that seeds are partly arbitrary may be subordinated to competitive recent years where LD debaters have anyway. Bear in mind that when considerations. earned a TOC bid merely by breaking brackets are broken, seeds are almost The logistical challenges of breaking and then walking over teammates, always changed by only one place— brackets are minor. Tab software like without having to debate a single for example, the first seed will face Joy of Tournaments makes it easy elimination round. the seventh seed instead of the to swap seeds. Although the correct Next, choosing not to break eighth. There is little difference, if procedure for breaking brackets can brackets means that one debater loses any, between the performance of the become complicated when multiple the chance to advance. A student 16th and 17th seeded debaters at a team conflicts exist, the acceptance who could have made it further in tournament. The difference between of clear procedures for it at the state the tournament is unexpectedly told consecutive seeds is usually a single or national levels would remove any that the tournament is over for her. speaker point or less. Speaker points difficulty. This would be just like the Perversely, in most cases, this student are generally good for distinguishing League’s established procedures for would have been better off had she top debaters from mediocre ones, pairing rounds at District Tournaments. been a worse seed, because then she but a difference of one or two points Above all, the minimal harm would not have been matched against over four to six rounds is negligible that breaking brackets causes a teammate. and is just as likely to be due to judges’ to competitive equity is vastly Third, the coach of the two preferences than differences in ability. outweighed by the harms of not debaters facing each other is forced to Parallels to breaking debate brackets doing so. Any unfairness caused by make the uncomfortable decision of exist in several sports. Major League altering debaters’ seeds by one place is which debater will advance. Standard Baseball sets playoff seeds so that no marginal at best, whereas the unfairness policy is to let the higher seed (that is, two teams from the same division of having one debater walk over a the lower-numbered seed) advance, play each other until it becomes teammate is palpable and undeniable. but some situations make such a unavoidable. Tennis players in the I urge tournament directors to begin decision difficult. When a TOC bid is on Olympics are seeded primarily on breaking brackets at their tournaments the line and the higher-seeded debater performance, but exceptions are made and establish it as a norm throughout has already qualified, coaches find it when it would result in players from the debate community. agonizing to have to decide whether the same country potentially having to make an exception to that rule. It to play each other before semifinals. is equally challenging when the higher Likewise, the seeds in March Madness Kevin Coltin is the Lincoln-Douglas Debate coach at Brophy Prep in seed is a younger student who may are adjusted so that schools in the Phoenix, Arizona, and co-director of the not have a good chance of winning same conference avoid each other. Southwest Speech and Debate Institute. the next round, and the lower seed an excellent debater with one bid and few or no chances for another. Such decisions are also difficult to make at References state qualifier tournaments or when Reed, Andrea. Message to the author. 26 June 2012. Email.
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www.nationalforensicleague.org
Transportation Funding
by Frederick “Bud” Wright s the new Executive Director urban congestion problems in these of AASHTO, I am pleased to United States. The report concludes A work with the National Forensic traffic conditions are becoming worse. League on this year’s national debate A total of 5.5 billion hours are wasted topic. Transportation infrastructure is a due to congestion, where the average major aspect of our lives from the price of commuters spent 38 extra hours traveling groceries we buy to our commute to work in 2011. To curb the growing traffic delays or school. Our roads, bridges, railroads, on the roads, urban areas need to develop and waterways are essential aspects of our alternatives to driving with increased transportation system, economic vitality, transit options. For areas with transit and way of life. President Eisenhower’s systems in place, investment is crucial to plan to transform America through the evolve the system for the future. Interstate Highway System was bold The AASHTO 2009 Bottom Line report but necessary. Through his leadership, recommends national investment in roads we constructed the largest highway and bridges of roughly $166 billion spent network in the world, providing a system annually—$46 billion for transit. Investing for freight, commercial, and passenger in our transportation infrastructure can mobility. also lead to cost savings in the future. A Since then, our system has reached recent study by the Alliance Commission a tipping point. We do not rank as the on National Energy estimates the U.S. can leader and example in transportation see $218 billion in energy savings if we infrastructure investment anymore. invest around $79 billion in transportation Nations in Europe and Asia are investment by 2030. The commission adds investing significantly to upgrade their that investments in public transportation, infrastructure. The U.S. population pedestrian access, and other alternative continues to increase, and our modes from driving will not only save on transportation network is aging and energy costs but will lower greenhouse feeling the pressure. States are addressing emissions. In a global economy, we are at the issue with projects and initiatives to risk if we are unable to move our goods to restore their infrastructure, and federal and from the marketplace. agencies are using their resources as well, Last year, Congress passed MAP-21, the but increased investment is necessary. reauthorization of surface transportation The Texas Transportation Institute funding. While the two-year bill offers released their 2012 Urban Mobility reforms to streamline the project Report, which examines the state of evaluation and funding process, it does
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 53
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not fully fund our surface transportation the governor and the state legislature tax, or some other funding solution, we programs. Congress continued a recent eliminated the gas tax and replaced it with need it. We have major challenges facing trend of transferring money from the a sales tax and other fees. And in Oregon, transportation in the country, but I think general fund to the highway trust fund in the state is piloting a new VMT program we are up to the challenge. Across the order to maintain funding levels. The fact that taxes the miles a vehicle travels. The country, state DOTs are taking actions to is, without some kind of injection of new AASHTO Board of Directors (which is rebuild our transportation infrastructure; revenue, we anticipate the highway trust made up of State DOT heads) adopted a improve roads, rails, and our ports. As fund will be insolvent by late 2014. menu of 30 options to raise revenues for the Panama Canal Expansion is under Across the nation, states are finding transportation. Regardless of the option, construction more than 1,000 miles away, new ways to fund their transportation our goal is consistent. We must find a American ports prepare for the new phase programs. The traditional gas tax will sustainable, user-based funding source in global trade. While this is good news, not be sustainable at current levels. in order to move our country forward. we have a lot of catching up to do. With Massachusetts, Wisconsin, and others States are finding new solutions to our increased investment from today’s levels, are looking at raising the gas tax to transportation funding crisis, but a robust we can once again be the role model for support their transportation system. federal program is essential. transportation infrastructure around the Some states have kept their gas tax at Despite our efforts to streamline world. the same level for more than 10 years. and become more efficient, we are still With the development of high efficiency falling behind. What we need is greater vehicles, the gas tax is bringing in less investment. Whether that is more Frederick “Bud” Wright is the executive director of the Association of State and less money each year. In Virginia, innovative financing tools, an indexed gas Highway and Transportation Officials.
54 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013
Education First Nationally Successful Faculty
Proven Student Success
SWSDI Alumni Achievements in 2012-13
National House Runner Up, NFL Congress National Senate 3rd Place, NFL Congress National House 6th Place, NFL Congress 7th Place, TOC Congress 17 NFL National Qualifiers 9 NFL Out Round Participants 11 State Championship Winners 7th Place, 2013 Harvard National Congress
The 2013 SWSDI Faculty Includes
Susan Seep – Board President AZ State Champion and National Qualifier Coach Two-week events (July 7 to July 21): Lincoln Douglas Debate Elizabeth Clarke – Curriculum Director Policy Debate Steven Ebensberger – Extemp Lab Leader Coaches of 2012 USX National Champion and of 2 First week events (July 7 to July 14): Harvard National Congress 2013 Finalists
Public Forum Debate Kevin Berlat – Congressional Debate Director Interp Coach of 12 National Congress Finalists
Second week events (July 14 to July 21): Congressional Debate Extemporaneous Speaking What do our former Oratory students say about SWSDI?
Cost for residential students “It was fun. I learned a lot in two weeks…I $990 for two weeks never regretted signing up at one $670 for a single week moment. Great leaders.”
Commuter Rates and Financial Aid Available “I liked how SWSDI treated us like intelligent people. The education that I July 7-21, 2013, at Arizona received was exceedingly helpful.” “I feel like I learned a lot, not only about State University congress, but about speaking and speech writing in general. I feel like a much stronger speaker now.”
Learn more about us and apply at www.swsdi.org HARVARD DEBATE COUNCIL 2013 SUMMER WORKSHOPS
Congress • Public Forum • Policy Public Speaking & Argumentation Register today! Workshops begin July 2013 for students in grades 9 - 12 A Project of the Harvard Debate Council, An Undergraduate Organization
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Questions? (617) 495-4822 or [email protected] www.nationalforensicleague.org International History and Development of “NFL China”
by Stefan Bauschard n December 2011, I traveled to While in Nashville, Jeff also met mainland China for the first with Scott Wunn and began working I time to work with Dipont on a plan to introduce the U.S. National Education Management (DEM) on the Forensic League to China in order to development of debate in China. make Chinese students and schools In only seven days in China, I made members of the League. presentations about the value of Students living in China want to debate and the Harvard Debate Council be part of the U.S. League because Summer Workshops (HDCSW) to DEM they are eager to participate in a (Shanghai), the Wuxi No. 1 School U.S.-based speech and debate honor (Wuxi), the Nanjing Foreign Language society where they can assess their School (Nanjing), the Hangzhou Foreign own strengths relative to U.S. students Language School (Hangzhou), the who are competitive and dedicated Shenzhen Foreign Language School to success in forensics. Most of the (Shenzhen), and the Shanghai World students who are participating in Foreign Languages School (Shanghai). debate in China wish to attend U.S. During that time, we developed a universities, so they highly value the preliminary plan to promote debate in opportunity to be a member of a U.S. China and began designing an academic honor society that is recognized and debate program for students from China at the HDCSW. appreciated by U.S. universities. In January 2012, DEM Vice President In the spring of 2012, I continued Jeff Zhu traveled with me to the to work with DEM both to design an Montgomery Bell Academy tournament academic program for Chinese students in Tennessee. Jeff spent his time at at the HDCSW and to develop a the tournament learning all of the competitive debate circuit in China. As details about how debate tournaments part of the program, the League and operate. He also spent some time the Harvard Debate Council jointly watching the most competitive students developed a curriculum and textbook at the tournament debate one another. to support debate instruction in He was quite impressed by the level China. The curriculum and supported of competition, and was even more text are grounded in International enthusiastic about developing academic Baccalaureate, 21st Century Skills, and debate in China. U.S. Common Core State Standards.
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 57 In June of 2012, DEM initiated a silver awards, seven national gold training session for more than 100 awards, five patents authorized by teachers to support the development the State Patent Bureau, among which of debate in China. To augment that three have been developed by the training session, I worked with the factories and put into production.” League to organize four days of debate The school is frequently visited training for the participants. We by international delegations. recruited Dr. Anand Rao (University of Approximately 40 foreign teachers Mary Washington), Dr. Ryan Galloway teach in the school. More than 200 (Samford University), and Adam J. Jacobi students are enrolled in debate classes (National Forensic League) to deliver Ningbo followed on a weekly basis. in RFDZ and are coached by Chris Burk. presentations and to provide hands-on On March 1, 2013, five new coaches learning for the participants. made their way to China to support Nanjing Foreign Language School In addition to the teachers, the debate opportunities for another 1,000 The Nanjing Foreign Language school training was attended by Zhou Jianhua, students. is a middle school and high school in the Executive Vice President of the As part of the program to expand Nanjing, China. It is one of the seven Society for Cultivating Innovators. debate in China, many of the top- oldest foreign language schools in He gave a presentation on the value ranked high schools and middle schools China. of debate. The Innovation Method in the country have joined the National Students are admitted based on Society also supported the training. Forensic League. After the first round very difficult exams that test their In July, 120 students from China’s of tournaments, 97 additional students abilities in math, Chinese, and English. foreign language schools participated joined the U.S. League. Nine of the Every year there are approximately in a special program at the HDCSW. leading schools in China joined, as well. 4,000 applicants and only 300 are All 120 students became members Below are a few highlights from admitted. If students are admitted in of the U.S. League. In the program, several of the new programs: middle school, they must re-test into the students learned how to debate, the high school. The courses in the the basics of public speaking and High School Associated with Renmin school are taught by both Chinese and argumentation, and also about the University (RDFZ) foreign teachers and frequently use topic that they would debate in the Located in Beijing, RFDZ is widely foreign textbooks. coming academic year: Resolved: China considered to be one of the leading The principal of the school is Mr. should increase its use of nuclear schools in China (many say it is the Dong Zhengjing. Mr. Dong is very power. number one school in China). It is a supportive of the new debate program After the program in the U.S. member of the G20 Schools Group. at the school. finished, I continued to work with RFDZ students are recruited to Nanjing Foreign Language School DEM to develop debate in China. In attend the best schools in China, hosted the first Public Forum early August 2012, I recruited four U.S. including Tsinghua University, Beijing tournament in China in December 2012. debate coaches to work in China for University, and Renmin University. More More than 100 students are a year, teaching debate in the English than 100 attend leading universities in currently debating at the school. They language schools. With the arrival of the U.S. According to their website, are coached by Thom O’Rourke. these experienced teachers to support “students of RDFZ have won two gold those at the training, debate really took medals and one silver medal at the Wuxi No. 1 School off in China. international Mathematical Olympiad The Wuxi No. 1 School is located in the By late November 2012, a total of 17 successively, the first award in the city of Wuxi. It is widely regarded as schools were operating debate classes, 7th Rado Watch Award for Chinese the best school in Wuxi and one of the and more than 1,000 students were adolescent Elites in Science, Gold Sail leading schools in China. enrolled in those courses. Award, Silver Sail Award, and Gold More than 80 students are enrolled During the first week of December, Roc Award as well as Beijing’s ten in the Wuxi No. 1 school and also are 90 two-person teams (180 students) Best Middle School Students Award, coached by Thom O’Rourke. competed in the first Public Forum the first place for scientific papers in Debate tournament in China as the national adolescent innovation Ningbo Foreign Languages School part of the National Academic High competition, more than l00 prizes for Ninety percent of the school’s School Debate Tournament Series. innovation at the municipal level, a graduates have attended China’s leading Tournaments in Beijing, Shanghai, and total of nine international gold and universities and many attend school
58 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org
in the United States. It is regarded as a number of admissions to the top School in the Province” as well as Model School by the National Foreign universities in China. one of the “Best Key Schools in the Language School Association. More than 100 debaters from the Province,” and it was recently named According to the school’s website, school are coached by Matt Farmer. “the Best First-Class Key School in the the school “has received several Province” by the National Ministry of visiting delegations of teachers and Shanghai No. 3 Girls’ High School Education. students from the States, Australia, The Shanghai No. 3 Girls’ High School More than 120 students from the Japan, Singapore, and Germany and has is the only state-owned middle school school are taught and coached by Dr. established friendships with Hopking in China. It is known as as a “a cradle of Joseph Packer and Joshua Palacios. School in the U.S., Perth College talented women” and “place of cultural in Scotland, Yishun Junior College, exchange.” Conclusion Chinese High School, and Nanyang More than 100 students from the Students enrolled in the National Girls’ High School in Singapore.” school are taught and coached by Dr. Forensic League of China will have the More than 100 students at the Joseph Packer and Joshua Palacios. opportunity to vie to attend the U.S. Ningbo Foreign Language School are National Speech & Debate Tournament coached by Jennifer Schraeder. Shanghai Qibao High School this year in Birmingham, based on their According to a web review, “the school competitive success in China. In May, a Shenzhen Foreign Languages School has been rated as one of ‘Shanghai’s national championship tournament will and Shenzhen Middle School experimental and demonstration senior be hosted in Beijing with the top eight The Shenzhen Foreign Languages high schools,’ the ‘municipal base for teams from each of the major cities, school is considered to be one of the training top-rate school principals,’ and based on their U.S. League point totals. top schools in Shenzhen. All of its the ‘advanced collective in the national Those teams will then compete in a graduates are admitted to top Chinese educational system.’” 64-team championship tournament. and foreign universities. More than 100 More than 100 students from the Only the top students from that debaters from the school are coached school are taught and coached by Dr. competition will be invited to compete by Mr. Matt Farmer. Joseph Packer and Joshua Palacios. in the U.S. in June. The Shenzhen Middle School is In order to provide a framework considered to be the best in Shenzhen Ningbo Xiaoshi Language School for the growing number of Chinese and one of the best schools in the The Ningbo Xiaoshi Laguage School is students and schools participating Guangdong province. In recent years, one of the leading schools in Eastern in the U.S. League, the organization its graduates have had the largest China. It was recently named a “Key launched “NFL China” in December 2012. We hope that this initiative will continue to serve the advancement of debate in China and, in the future, will provide additional opportunities for U.S. students to compete abroad.
Stefan Bauschard is the Debate Coach for the Lakeland School District. He is also the President and co-founder of PlanetDebate.com, the co-founder and co-director of the Harvard Debate Council Summer Workshops (hdcworkshops.org), and a consultant to DebateHall.com, the National Forensic League (U.S.), The National Forensic League of Korea, Dipont Education Management (China), and Nsdevil.com.
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 59 Diamond Coach Recognition
Fifth Diamond Stan Austin has been involved in the National Forensic League for more than 30 years. First as a practicing attorney and later as a sitting judge in DuPage County, Illinois, he has been involved in coaching in the evenings and on weekends. Now that he has retired from the bench, he thinks it is great to be able to coach in the afternoons and have dinner at home with his wife, Jean. Stan believes that involvement in speech and debate is the best training of life skills that a young person can receive, which is why he became involved and has remained involved in the League. In his 30-plus years of coaching, Stan has had the honor of coaching dozens if not hundreds of students to Nationals, including a National Champion in Impromptu, National Finalists in Extemp and Prose, and National Semifinalists in Humorous Interp, Storytelling, and Supplemental Debate. On Wheaton North’s team, he has had Illinois State Champions in Extemp, Impromptu, Dramatic Interp, Oratory, Prose, u FIFTH DIAMOND u Verse, Original Comedy, Radio, and Special Occasion Speaking. He says he is Stan Austin blessed and grateful for his family, his assistant coaches over the years, and his Wheaton North High School, IL February 18, 2013 thousands of students who have done so well, all of whom have helped him to 13,169 points this award. He is honored to receive his fifth diamond.
Fourth Diamond
u FOURTH DIAMOND u Eloise Weisinger Blair Lamar High School - Houston, TX January 17, 2013 12,977 points
60 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 www.nationalforensicleague.org
u THIRD DIAMOND u u THIRD DIAMOND u Lynette Williamson David Gay Analy High School, CA Alpharetta High School, GA January 21, 2013 February 10, 2013 7,033 points 6,238 points
u SECOND DIAMOND u u SECOND DIAMOND u u SECOND DIAMOND u Nancy Dean Scott Voss Robert. L Odle Western High School, FL Apple Valley High School, MN Mounds High School, OK December 12, 2012 January 27, 2013 February 11, 2013 9,005 points 3,015 points 3,001 points
u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u Stephanie. A King Miriam Slifer Isabelle Evans Rufus King High School, WI Myers Park High School, NC Fairview High School, CO December 16, 2012 December 29, 2012 January 17, 2013 1,527 points 1,516 points 1,745 points
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 61 Diamond Coach Recognition
u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u Staci Johnson John. O Bathke Gerri Colvin Hallsville High School, MO Princeton High School, NJ Coram Deo Academy, TX January 17, 2013 January 19, 2013 January 28, 2013 5,782 points 1,504 points 1,518 points
u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u Chris Mifflin Robyn Rose Rock. A Westfahl James Madison HS - San Antonio, TX Gresham-Barlow High School, OR Victoria East High School, TX January 29, 2013 February 5, 2013 February 6, 2013 1,514 points 2,611 points 1,513 points
u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u u FIRST DIAMOND u Christa Gordon Clint Wooderson Thomas Lucas Regis Jesuit High School, CO Bolivar R 1 High School, MO Bemidji High School, MN February 10, 2013 February 19, 2013 February 25, 2013 1,505 points 1,506 points 1,506 points
62 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 DDIDebate Institutes at Dartmouth 30th Anniversary! PDSW & DDIx July 6 - July 13 DDI July 14 - August 10 DDI Our 4 week program, renowned for producing nationally successfully debaters year after year. PDSW (Public Debate Skills Workshop) DDIx – Beginners For Public Forum, Parliamentary, IPPF, and A new 1-week program for those with a year or Extemporaneous debaters of all experience levels. less of debate experience. A great opportunity to develop skills and debate experience. DDIx – Advanced A new 1-week extension program to the DDI. DDIx – Senior Assistants Get a head start with a week of skills and strategy For highly successful rising seniors. Revamped focus with lots of practice speeches and debates. to include more speaking and debate practice.
“The DDI is a step above the rest....There is simply no better way to prepare for success at the elite level of high school debate.” Alex Lamballe (National Debate Tournament Champion)
“I have been sending students for the last 20 years and have never been disappointed. The size of the insti- tute is just the right size for every student to receive individual instruction and attention from the lab leaders. The atmosphere is friendly and supportive and my students have always come home vastly improved. I would recommend Dartmouth to any coach with students who want to work and are willing to learn.” Glenda Ferguson, Coppell H.S. (TX)
For more information, go to: ddidebate.org
www.nationalforensicleague.org
Donus D. Roberts Quad Ruby Coach Recognition The League is proud to honor coaches who have earned their first 1,000 points. (January, 1 2013 through February 28, 2013)
Name School / State Points Name School / State Points
Jody Orme Sky View High School, UT 1,480 Richard A. Cortes Rigby High School, ID 1,063 Jon Marc Baney Kickapoo High School, MO 1,455 Eric Helle Bonita Vista High School, CA 1,054 Christina Vail Hamilton High School, AZ 1,377 Megan Johnson West High School - Iowa City, IA 1,041 Richard W. Whitrock Harmony School Of Advancement, TX 1,339 Courtney Spears Merrol Hyde Magnet School, TN 1,040 Jeremy Sullivan Nixa High School, MO 1,337 Natalie Ashley Shawnee Mission South High School, KS 1,037 Jacqueline Wilber Roosevelt High School, SD 1,329 Dave DeMarzo Wheaton Warrenville South High School, IL 1,036 B.J. Kingsbaker Pueblo West High School, CO 1,255 Paul Grisanti Convent Of The Sacred Heart, CT 1,031 Michael Bolen Richardson High School, TX 1,214 Nancy Dandridge Oxford Academy, CA 1,031 Cherie Smith Citrus Valley High School, CA 1,211 Jameson Norman Eastwood Academy, TX 1,030 Thomas Robert Ian Turnipseed Saint James School, AL 1,189 Daniel Baxter Bellarmine College Prep, CA 1,026 Betty Fisher Bixby High School, OK 1,186 Jeremy Fitzpatrick Winterset High School, IA 1,026 Jeffrey A. Stoppenhagen Columbia High School, ID 1,186 Roy Rodriguez A & M Consolidated High School, TX 1,025 Chris Dolton Laurel School, OH 1,170 Leslie Moeller Geneva School Of Boerne, TX 1,022 Andrea Christen Skyview High School, MT 1,167 James Peterson Lake Worth Community High School, FL 1,020 Matt Dunay The Bronx High School Of Science, NY 1,164 Reilly Hartigan The Bronx High School Of Science, NY 1,014 John Augillard, III St. Thomas High School, TX 1,156 Marie Davis Wilburton High School, OK 1,012 Heather Garrelts Lexington High School, NE 1,147 Taylor Reynolds Puyallup High School, WA 1,011 Samantha Weiss Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, CA 1,142 Nadia Fischer Mesa Ridge High School, CO 1,009 James Briski C.R. North High School, PA 1,141 Mark Crossman Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, CA 1,008 Brad Chapple Layton High School, UT 1,140 AnnettaMarie Snowden Harrisonville High School, MO 1,008 Phyllis T. Pacilli Boca Raton Community High School, FL 1,131 Todd Stratford Midpark High School, OH 1,007 Olivia Wheeler Liberty Sr. High School, MO 1,115 Norma J. Langston Niobrara County High School, WY 1,007 Amanda Simon Sioux Falls Lincoln High School, SD 1,097 Tami J. Parker Lovejoy High School, TX 1,007 Julie E. Roos Canyon Springs High School, NV 1,097 William Evanich Kokomo High School, IN 1,006 Joshua Wurzman Spring High School, TX 1,096 Tonya M. Naylor J. Frank Dobie High School, TX 1,004 James Herbert Brock Houston County High School, GA 1,093 Bradley Conant Dirigo High School, ME 1,001 Nicholas C. Kwolek Northrop High School, IN 1,088 Heidi Ann Schroeder Cedar Ridge High School, TX 1,001 Aaron Reid E. C. Glass High School, VA 1,077 Dana Denise Myers Shawnee Heights High School, KS 1,000 Susan Mohn Interlake High School - Bellevue, WA 1,066
See a topic you’d like addressed in- depth? Interested in writing for Rostrum?
Email your ideas to [email protected]
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 65 NFL and NFHS Members
Get steep discounts (as much as $990*) for credit in forensic coaching/teaching instruction from Truman State University. PD 540/540G Directing the Middle or High School Speech and Debate Program Summer Term 2013: June 3-July 26 (Eight Weeks) Fully Online - $230 per credit hour flat rate* This course seeks to serve the needs of those secondary school educators and co-curricular advi- sors who have been assigned the responsibility of supervising a speech and debate program at the secondary level. Students will explore basic topics related to the pedagogy of forensics, the management of forensics programs, and the professional issues associated with the coaching role. Discussion of theatre, mock trial, and related programs is included.
This 8-week, fully-online course includes content on a range of topics of interest to the new direc- tor, as well as new insights for directors with more experience. For new directors with competitive background, the course is designed to bring insights into questions of philosophy, pedagogy, and or- ganizational management. Participants complete the course with finished lesson plans, exercises, and resources both they and their peers have developed.
The Instructor: Dr. Kevin Minch is a Professor of Communication, Director of the Truman Institute, and Dean of the Joseph Baldwin Academy at Truman State University. He was Truman’s Director of Forensics for 10 years. During his tenure students captured multiple national titles in debate and speech events. He currently serves as a National Federation of State High School Associations Col- lege Advisor and Speech, Debate, and Theatre Consultant.
Visit pd.truman.edu/DOF.asp for more information or call (660) 785-5384.
Content developed in partnership with the NFL, NFHS, and the Educational Theatre Association. * Discounts vary based on enrollment in undergraduate or graduate sections and state of residency. Residents of some states may be ineligible by law.
THE LEADER IN NATIONAL CLAREMONT SUMMER AND INTERNATIONAL DEBATE & LEADERSHIP INSTRUCTION
2013 SUMMER PROGRAMS
MIDDLE SCHOOL DEBATE Three sessions featuring instruction in the MSPDP format, the largest and fastest growing debate model for students 5th-‐8th grade students – Third supersession includes championship tournament July 8-‐13 & July 13-‐18 & July 29-‐August 5
HIGH SCHOOL DEBATE INFORMATION AND APPLICATION FORMS One session featuring instruction in the HSPDP/CHSSA debate formats CLAREMONTSUMMER.ORG July 22-‐29 Sponsored by the Claremont Colleges Debate Union
National Middle School and High School Debate Programs INTERNATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL The Middle School and High School Public Debate Programs (MSPDP and HSPDP) constitute the fastest DEBATE & AUDITION FOR US growing educational debate outreach network, with class and contest programming in more than 40 states and 20 countries. More than 80,000 teachers and students participate annually. The MS/HSPDP INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM proprietary competitive debate formats were developed to maximize student educational outcomes, Training for US students interested in accelerating standards-‐based learning and promoting sophisticated public speaking, critical thinking, research, argumentation, and refutation skills. The models offer appropriate training for elite class and participating in international debating – contest debating, including MS/HSPDP league competition, international debate tournaments, and NFL WSDC format and audition debate events. There is also training specific to the California High School Speech Association (CHSSA) June 22-‐29 parliamentary debate format, an impromptu argumentation model developed at the Claremont Colleges Debate Union. LEADERSHIP AND PROFESSIONAL International High School Debate – WSDC The World Schools Debating Championship (WSDC) is a global affair – as many as 60 countries participate COMMUNICATION FOR HIGH in the international high school championship. The WSDC format is quite similar to the MS/HSPDP design SCHOOL STUDENTS and the summer workshop provides rigorous training for students interested in learning the format and Resume building, interviewing, auditioning for USWSDC teams. Although only one team per country is eligible to attend the world championship tournament, the USWSDC program offers opportunities for regional championship roundtable discussion, public speaking, debating (e.g., Pan American Debating Championship, Eurasian Schools Debating Championship), as well team building, project management, and as participation in international exchanges for tournaments, workshops, and public debates. The leadership skill development – Audition Claremont Colleges Debate Union is the official US representative for the World Schools Debating Council – the Debate Union coordinates US international debate programming, selecting and training for High School Civic Leadership Program students for events. In 2012-‐13, USWSDC students will participate in events in South Africa, United July 29-‐August 5 Kingdom, Slovenia, Canada, Chile, Romania, China, Thailand, Peru, Turkey, Czech Republic, and more.
Leadership Communication The summer workshop offers instruction in professional communication for leadership, using the curricular materials, methods, and individual and group presentation exercises developed for businesses, non-‐profit organizations, and higher education faculty and students. The program includes training in extemporaneous speaking, roundtable discussion and negotiation, multimedia presentation, project management, and social professional networking. Students prepare projects for evaluation by field professionals, including university faculty, lawyers, financial analysts, and non-‐profit organization staff. Students are eligible to audition for the High School Civic Leadership Program, a Debate Union initiative.
The Claremont Difference PROGRAM DIRECTOR Format and program certification required for faculty and judges • Staff includes authors of 15 debate John Meany textbooks, WSDC national coaches from USA and Korea, founders of MS/HS Public Debate Program and CHSSA formats, communication consultants with clients in a half dozen countries, coaches of a score Director of Forensics national debate champions • Exclusive small group instruction with elective options for high school Claremont McKenna College students (student-‐directed learning) • 4-‐1 student-‐faculty ratio • Textbooks provided for all programs Claremont Colleges Debate Union [email protected]
Interpretation The Trick Is, There Is No Trick (Which is a good thing, because we don’t need one.)
by Travis Kiger and Ganer Newman
esearching literature to perform: Pulitzer prize list. However, through the wonderful thing. He said, “If you work on How intimidating? Well, young Interp process, the performer was able to this performance looking for a negative R interper or coach of interpers, communicate a truthful observation of experience, then you are going to find it. you are not alone in scratching your head the human condition. Sometimes—and Try looking for a positive experience, and about where to start. The most common I would argue that most times—when a you’ll be amazed at what might be found question that we receive from new performance is not working, something there.” I’d like to say that those words coaches and performers from across the may be wrong with the performance— changed me forever right away, but I had country is, “Where do you find literature?” and the piece is not to blame. As a to have another miserable tournament It is a tricky question. How do you competitor, I had to learn this the hard experience and more frustrating choose a piece that will serve you well in way. rehearsals before my coach told me his performance from ALL of the literature Once upon a long ago, when I was wonderful words again. I heard him the from ALL of time from ALL of the world? bouncing my way from round to round second time. We worked together to fix The answer: One book at a time. as a clueless competitor, my coach my performance, and I soon experienced success in DI. Many competitors, experienced suggested a piece of literature for me to I would not jump ship so quickly on and inexperienced alike, place a ton check out for Dramatic Interpretation. a piece of literature again. The piece of pressure on themselves to find the I read it, recognized dramatic potential was not holding me back. I was holding perfect piece for performance. The dirty in the story, and began piecing together me back. Once I figured that out, the truth is: yes, some pieces of literature a performance for Dramatic Interp. I search for literature became a lot easier. I are better written for competitive began competing with this performance, stopped trying to find the perfect piece, performance than others. And some and I soon discovered what failure felt and forensics made a lot more sense. pieces are better suited for you as a like. After two tournaments of abysmal This is how at Forensics Camp, performer than others. And sometimes, rankings, I suggested to my coach that I we, as an Interp staff, are able to help interpers seemingly win because of a switch my piece. I even had, “Try another successfully place literature with 60 great piece of literature—but understand piece of literature,” scribbled in adult competitors within 48 hours. It is not this: this is by far a rarity. It is just as handwriting on some of my ballots. My because we have better books than common for an interper to not win with coach shook his head and prompted me anyone else. We have just learned, great literature than without. to fix some of the performance issues through our experience, that the perfect The filthiest truth is: the piece before I went back to the beginning in thing isn’t out there. We enter the does not win for you. Hard work and working on a brand new piece. process looking for a positive experience dedication are much bigger factors in Well, my coach’s suggestion made and when we make a mistake and make determining your competitive destinies. me unhappy. After some very frustrating a choice that doesn’t work, we don’t This means: there will not be a perfect rehearsal sessions, some re-cutting, and lose hope. There is a lot of literature out piece. Some championships have been some tempo and character changes, I there, in all of the world, so it’ll only be a won with very simple, little-known pieces was little more convinced that this piece matter of time before we find something of literature that you will not see on any would work. Then my coach said this that works.
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Employing a few techniques in About the Authors your literature search can save Travis Kiger is an English teacher and coach at you lots of time—and cash! Wesley Chapel High School in the Florida Sunshine District. He is also an MFA student at • Read the back cover. If the narrative is already the University of Tampa too complicated, then go no further. and coaches Interpretation at the Florida Forensic Institute.
• Seek out pretty/glossy covers. Ganer Newman is a coach at Western • Read the first page and see if you get a sense Kentucky University and is the Director of the voice. Then read the first page of the third of Interpretation at chapter (sometimes books start slow). the Florida Forensic Institute. • Next, read the first few pages of the last They are both founding members of chapter. C4 Debate and recently worked together on the text Interpretation of Literature: • Finally, read the last page. After that, you should Bringing Words to Life for the National Forensic League. They are currently have a sense if the book will work or not. collaborating on a new public speaking text for iDebate Press. • As you read, start cutting in your head. Think about possible conflicts, relationships, climaxes. If it is an autobiography about a movie star, look for the chapter where they had trouble making it, or the one about how they hit rock bottom due to alcoholism. Consider the relationships on which your cutting will focus. Determine if it is about the character’s relationship with him or herself, or a relationship with a father, lover, or sibling.
• Look past the words. Don’t immediately dismiss a selection when the words don’t make you laugh or cry. Try to imagine characters, environment, and interesting perspectives as you read. Sometimes, an idea or performance device can get you further than the actual words.
• Read with structure in mind. Know what you’re looking for. Learn about cutting structure before you go hunting for literature. This will save you LOTS of time in the end. Remember: Exposition, Interpretation of Literature: Bringing Words to Life Inciting Incident, Rising Action, Climax, Falling is available for download by League Resource Package Action, and Conclusion. subscribers. To learn more, visit http://goo.gl/Mc JjQ.
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NO COST TO APPLY! Download the Academic All American application form today.
Spark Leadership http://goo.gl/6JHTy
ACADEMIC ALL AMERICANS (February 1, 2013 through February 28, 2013)
The Academic All American award recognizes students who have earned the degree of Superior Distinction (750 points); earned a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent); received an ACT score of 27 or higher, or SAT combined score of 2000 or higher; completed at least 5 semesters of high school; and demonstrated outstanding character and leadership.
A LABAMA NEBRASKA Rachel Parker Mars Hill Bible School Mehgan Cain Millard North High School Erin Ross Mars Hill Bible School Alan Davis Millard North High School Allison Young Mars Hill Bible School Greta Morris Millard North High School Vivek Srivats Millard North High School CALIFORNIA Vaibhav Viswanathan Millard North High School Claire Rapp El Dorado High School Peter Xu Millard North High School
COLORADO OHIO Daniel Otter Pueblo Centennial High School Gabrielle Boltz Middletown High School Christopher Browne Stow-Munroe Falls High School IOWA Ivy Xue Ankeny High School OKLAHOMA Elizabeth Fentress Bartlesville High School ILLINOIS Jackson Monroe Norman North High School Luke Engel Wheaton North High School Jessica Stroner Wheaton North High School OREGON Bradley Weeder Wheaton North High School McKinley Rodriguez Lincoln High School
INDIANA PENNSYLVANIA Michaila Nate Plymouth High School Morgan P. Lennon North Allegheny High School
KANSAS SOUTH DAKOTA Cole Feldman St. James Academy Rachel Crawford Spearfish High School Edward Loupe Lawrence High School Justice Mack Spearfish High School Lauren Pauls Lawrence High School TEXAS MINNESOTA James Matthew Aller Holy Trinity Catholic High School Sasha Shilko Maple Grove Senior High School Elizabeth Marie Fetherman Holy Trinity Catholic High School Alyssa Lynn Snyder Holy Trinity Catholic High School MISSOURI Raymond Fang The Pembroke School UTAH Sidharth Goel The Pembroke School Nandini Deo Skyline High School Stephen Herrera Summit Christian Academy Dallas Neely Brentwood High School WYOMING David Rivera Brentwood High School Christopher Benton Cheyenne East High School Lucille Sappington Brentwood High School Ian Dome Cheyenne East High School Brendan Smith Blue Springs South High School Carter Henman Cheyenne East High School
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 73 The following students have received Student Service Citations in recognition of outstanding service to speech ent Service Citat and debate education. Students receive a citation for Stud ions every 100 service points earned through activities such as community speaking or outreach. A single act of service usually garners between two and five service points.
Student Service Citation, 4th Degree (400+ points) Kailey Cheyenne Nieman Seymour High School TN 435
Student Service Citation, 3rd Degree (300+ points) Emily Meyers Maryville R-II High School MO 363 Sean Weller Air Academy High School CO 350 Mir Ghouri Norman High School OK 343
Student Service Citation, 2nd Degree (200+ points) David Colston Glenbrook South High School IL 267 Connor Morris Whitehouse High School TX 257 Taylor Cantrall Brewster Academy NH 255 Tyler Dallis Exeter R-6 High School MO 229 Alanna Kalbfliesh Dobson High School AZ 217 Raisa Ryanne Runnels Bixby High School OK 217 Antonio Albor Raytown High School MO 210 Emily Jadwin Gahanna-Lincoln High School OH 210 Dalton Glasscock Maize South High School KS 209 Cayley Jameson Muscatine High School IA 209 Maria Meyer North Catholic High School PA 209 Sara Stewart Truman High School PA 209 Kelly Gifford Corvallis High School MT 207 Jesse D. Harth Marshall High School MO 204 Travis Huddleston Bixby High School OK 204 Jaclynn Elaine Payne Central High School - Springfield MO 203 Scarlett Simmons Bixby High School OK 202 John Mckay Chaminade High School NY 200 Megan Miklusicak Seymour High School TN 200 Gina Milano Connersville Sr. High School IN 200
Student Service Citation, 1st Degree (100+ points) Mason Powell Seymour High School TN 189 Jena Sugay Hinsdale Central High School IL 182 Peter Bruno Schaumburg High School IL 170 Kirk Wolff Morristown West High School TN 164 Felix Yoon Albany High School CA 156 Mahera Suhail Downers Grove South High School IL 155 Saeeda Zaman Downers Grove South High School IL 155 Nicolas O’Connor Chaminade High School NY 150 Sabrina Thomas Downers Grove South High School IL 150 Laura Nelson Hinsdale Central High School IL 149 Jesse Darrow Boca Raton Community High School FL 145 Francesca MacLaughlin Rio Americano High School CA 145 Thomas Startz Fargo Shanley High School ND 145 Keegan M. Troth Marshall High School MO 145 Matt Jamison Cardinal Mooney High School OH 142 Mitchell Bild Downers Grove South High School IL 134 Parthiv Shah Downers Grove South High School IL 130 Mathew Dallas Exeter R-6 High School MO 129 Sebastian Startz Fargo Shanley High School ND 129 Ryan M. Kennedy Wellington High School FL 128 Daniel Balsamo Downers Grove South High School IL 125 Brooks Mackender Raymore-Peculiar High School MO 125 Martina Pendergraft Exeter R-6 High School MO 125 Elizabeth John William Tennent High School PA 124 Anais Carell Hinsdale Central High School IL 123 Emily G. Wiseley Exeter R-6 High School MO 123 Tyler Fountain Eubanks East Carteret High School NC 122 Omari Collins Raymore-Peculiar High School MO 120 Dana Legg Antioch Community High School IL 120 Nathaniel Weber Raymore-Peculiar High School MO 120 Evan Amster Matawan Regional High School NJ 119
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Student Service Citation, 1st Degree (100+ points) Contessa Marie Neff Ridgefield High School WA 119 Ashutosh Jindal Monta Vista High School CA 118 Jacob Mangum Whitehouse High School TX 118 Michael Dobuski Holy Ghost Prep PA 117 Dan Leahy Downers Grove South High School IL 117 Erin Kelly Noble Bishop McGuinness High School OK 117 Mansi Maini The Bronx High School Of Science NY 116 Adam Adnane William Tennent High School PA 115 Emma Pilgrim Lawton Academy Of Arts & Sciences OK 115 Esther Wong University High School - Fresno CA 115 Mariah Blankenship Exeter R-6 High School MO 114 Mason Weston Exeter R-6 High School MO 114 Savannah Hulsey Whitehouse High School TX 113 Bianca Barcelo Brewster Academy NH 110 Julia Couillard Downers Grove South High School IL 110 Maureen Driscoll Cardinal Mooney High School OH 110 Jordan Feliciano Norton High School OH 110 Nicholas Ketchum Randolph-Henry High School VA 110 Jesse Payan Arroyo High School CA 110 Daniel Spinelli La Salle College High School PA 110 Haley Huddleston Bixby High School OK 109 Andrew Ross Clearfield High School UT 109 Nick Clinton Hampton High School PA 108 Colin Samuel Bethany Christian High School IN 106 Emily Dahowski Downers Grove South High School IL 105 Srilatha Dasari Northrop High School IN 105 Thomas Davis Raymore-Peculiar High School MO 105 Christina Gilbert Los Gatos High School CA 105 Linda Katelyn Gillis Connersville Sr. High School IN 105 Cayden Hurst Layton High School UT 105 Aaron Jennings Lebanon High School MO 105 Cameron Keegan Analy High School CA 105 Jimmy Lin Alhambra High School CA 105 Caroline Lux Whitehouse High School TX 105 Jordan McGraw Connersville Sr. High School IN 105 Dane Schnake Raymore-Peculiar High School MO 105 Robyn Wheelock Norman High School OK 105 Madelon Wink Raymore-Peculiar High School MO 105 Sara Chaffee-Bates Walker High School MN 104 Abigail Francis George Miami Southridge Senior High School FL 104 My Huynh Gabrielino High School CA 104 Ari Pollack Madison West High School WI 104 Julio Salazar Morristown West High School TN 104 Ben Shemory Shikellamy High School PA 103 Gabrielle Thompson Buffalo High School MN 103 Jessica Woo Gabrielino High School CA 103 Vincent Tran Gabrielino High School CA 102 Alex Vidmar Overland High School CO 102 Julia Bittencourt The Bronx High School Of Science NY 101 David Gallo Hinsdale Central High School IL 101 Henry Ellis Price Oak Ridge High School TX 101 Danny K. Priester Exeter R-6 High School MO 101 Forrest Andrews Randolph-Henry High School VA 100 Noah Avery Randolph-Henry High School VA 100 Caitlin Carlson Downers Grove South High School IL 100 Andrew De La Torre La Puente High School CA 100 Miles Deangelo Boca Raton Community High School FL 100 Zoe Flenniken Seymour High School TN 100 Garret Goehring Central Catholic High School OH 100 Zoe Henson Norman High School OK 100 Ian J. Magill Ridgefield High School WA 100 Tori Remington Milbank High School SD 100 Nicholas Ruby Raymore-Peculiar High School MO 100 Maranda Sutton Lebanon High School MO 100 Austin Tolentino Downers Grove South High School IL 100 Andres Vazquez Arroyo High School CA 100 Sarah Anne White Norton High School OH 100 Anna Wilson Randolph-Henry High School VA 100 Ryan Yu Arroyo High School CA 100
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 75 COACH PROFILE Byron R. Arthur
“The poise and How did you first become the activity and could not get involved in speech and debate? enough of it. In my third year confidence that this When I was a student at Holy coaching at Jesuit High School activity fosters is Cross School, my English teacher New Orleans, I realized that it Brother James McDonnell was actually teaching young found nowhere else thought that it might be a good people that I loved, and it thing for me to do. I met the demanded so much more than in education.” debate coach, Ms. Amelia Dyer, simply helping students to win and I started immediately. debates.
Did you have a forensic Tell us a little about your mentor? If so, who was it, school and forensic program and what did s/he teach you? and the features that make Amelia Dyer was my high school them unique. The program coach and she showed me a at Holy Cross School is in its number of the tools necessary second year after being dormant to direct a good program. I also since around 2002. Our school count Daryl Fisher, a former has been around since 1849 coach at Isidore Newman, and and debate began in 1944. As a Barbara Fontenot, who in those Catholic all-male institution, the days coached at McDonough school is steeped in tradition #35 in New Orleans, as other and our program honors that coaches who inspired me as a tradition in every way possible. young coach. We are unapologetic about our commitment to our history and Why did you decide to become the brotherhood which makes a speech and debate coach? our school very special. Initially it was because I loved
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What challenges do you face How does participation in as a coach? Building a program speech and debate prepare
has been challenging but also your students for college and coach very exciting. We have had beyond? The years I have spent to re-introduce the school to in the corporate world have the program, and I am pleased shown me that not everyone to say that the institution knows how to compete. has embraced us. There is Forensics gives students that tremendous enthusiasm for ability in a way that very few what we do and the challenge activities are able to provide.
has been to grow the program The poise and confidence that pr in a manner which still allows this activity fosters is found us to maintain the culture that nowhere else in education. was established last year when there were only six members What would be your advice competing. for graduating seniors? Never forget these days and the o How has coaching changed lessons learned, but do not you? Coaching has made me a allow them to be the apex of better teacher. It has taught me your accomplishment. Use this that it is not enough to convey time as a means to a much more fi subject matter to students, accomplished end. but it is my duty to be relevant in their lives. Being a coach is Tell us about your favorite l simply an outgrowth of being a memory of the activity or committed and caring teacher. an accomplishment of which e I watched my mother model you are most proud. I have this as a teacher, and I have been blessed to have had a endeavored to do the same. number of great moments in Coaching has given me an this activity with most of them opportunity to live that out. being as a coach. The young men I coached at Jesuit gave me In what ways has the National so many wonderful moments. Forensic League helped you The greatest moment may have as a coach? Today’s League is come two months after reviving Byron R. Arthur is the Debate Coach at Holy Cross School in New Orleans. His innovative and very progressive. this program at Holy Cross and involvement in the activity began in 1981 There are so many resources my boys reached an elimination when he joined the National Forensic League, and eventually coached at Jesuit available for a coach that were round at their second High School in New Orleans from 1987- simply not there when I started tournament. It was a signal that 1996. A practicing attorney, he returned to coaching in 2011. He is a member coaching in the 80s. this great activity had returned of the Gold Key Society of the Barkley to the school I love. Forum at Emory University.
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 77 District in Detail
“Celebration! District Committee Let’s all celebrate and Nick Bollas, Chair GlenOak High School – Canton, OH have a good time!! Bill Franck Celebration!!! Wooster High School – Wooster, OH We gonna celebrate and Penny Harris Central Catholic High School – Canton, OH have a good time!!!!” 1 Tom Mosberger GlenOak High School – Canton, OH
John Weaver Perry High School – Massillon, OH
Eastern Ohio compiled by Nick Bollas
Tell us a little about the Eastern east; from suburban Medina county of the 20 schools competing at our Ohio district and what makes it to the north and the Appalachian hills 2013 District Tournament, 13 schools unique. Eastern Ohio celebrates of Carroll, Tuscarawas, and Coshocton qualified student-competitors to the the National Forensic League and counties to the south. National Tournament! Additionally, competitive speech and debate! Eastern Ohio also celebrates the a 14th chapter qualified competitors With our partners—the Western cultural diversity afforded by our from the Western Ohio District Ohio, North Coast, and Northern geography. Our chapter schools Tournament. Eastern Ohio celebrates Ohio districts, as well as the represent urban populations, our competitive balance, and we Ohio High School Speech League rural communities, and suburban expect this to continue at our District (OHSSL)—the Eastern Ohio district “bedroom” townships. Our Congress. distinguishes itself in communication student-competitors embrace the education, community accountability, opportunity to share experiences What are some best practices and GREAT speech and debate from our widely divergent social you would like to share with competition! perspectives. Our kids develop other district leaders? First, we Eastern Ohio celebrates our acceptance, understanding, and celebrate the belief that all chapters geographic diversity, centered on friendships from the interaction and coaches have a voice in what the cities of Canton (home of the necessary in interscholastic speech affects Eastern Ohio. Our District National Pro Football Hall of Fame) and debate competition. Committee provides proper guidance and Akron (home of the beloved Eastern Ohio celebrates being and leadership, but it is so much Goodyear airships). Eastern Ohio uniquely Eastern Ohio! We have easier when all chapter schools are ranges from the farming counties of huge chapter schools, by Ohio involved in the process. We invite Knox to the west and Portage to the standards, and small chapters. Yet, open discussion about initiatives,
1 Source: http://www.lyricsondemand.com/c/coolandtheganglyrics/celebrategoodtimeslyrics.html
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policies, and decisions made by the student-competitors. We encourage of parent support groups, who District Committee. Our coaches know our students to keep competition coordinate fundraising efforts to keep that their concerns and questions will inside “the rounds.” We know that all kids “on the bus.” We also know that be heard. Our coaches know that new our young adults will carry through some of our coaches reach into their and different means of conducting the expectations and demands of own pockets to ensure their student- and expediting tournaments will be fierce competition with the similar competitors participate. explored. In Eastern Ohio never is expectations and demands of good Also, non-unique to Eastern Ohio, heard, “That’s the way it has always friendship. Because of that belief, is the issue of coach retention. With been done.” Instead, what is heard is, Eastern Ohio, by consensus, does not the seemingly unending demands “What a great idea! Let’s try it out!” participate in the “Student of the of coaching, it becomes increasingly With that attitude, Eastern Ohio works Year” process. In our coaching hearts, difficult to find coaches who are as a united group. Admittedly, there we know that many of our kids are willing to be “lifers.” Increased are times when a “great idea” doesn’t deserving of the title “Student of the licensure requirements, administrative work, but, for the most part, new Year.” paperwork, family concerns, afterschool approaches result in better tournament commitments, and the never-ending management and a happier experience What challenges do you face as a fundraising headaches, make some of for our kids. district? We know that this is not our youngest and best coaches say, “I’m Second, Eastern Ohio celebrates unique to Eastern Ohio... money! sorry, but...” the “California Plan” for speech Ken Ebb said it best with his lyrics from Thankfully, Eastern Ohio celebrates competition at the District Tournament. Cabaret, “Money make the world go the suggestions and practices of We absolutely believe the “California ‘round.” Eastern Ohio needs more of our sister districts in providing a Plan” is the fairest means of conducting the money that makes the world go pathway to overcoming some of the a District Tournament. We know that ‘round! Without going into the details issues involving coach retention and the demand on judges lengthens the of Ohio’s unconstitutional public school recruitment! tournament, but we make it work. By funding method, Eastern Ohio is truly “dragging” and “staggering” sections challenged by funding for student How do you promote your program within an event, we manage to get activities of any kind. With the financial to administrators, school board three-judge panels into every round impact of school district budget cuts, members, parents, and/or alumni? of preliminary competition. We are the increase in “pay-to-play” (oops!) Eastern Ohio is lucky to be such a so committed to the “California Plan,” “pay-to-participate” programs and the competitive district. Our schools that we are exploring and researching difficulty of passing increased levies typically perform well at the national the “Eastern Ohio Option” that we on property, Eastern Ohio is beginning level, which is impressive to those hope to propose to the National to see a decline in speech and debate whose support is key to each school’s Forensic League Board of Directors for enrollment in many of our chapter success. Also, we perform well within consideration. schools. Even those chapters without the state. The Eastern Ohio district Third, Eastern Ohio celebrates a pay-to-participate requirement often has at least one or two state our commitment to an open and see shrinking numbers (a sign of the champions and a bevy of state finalists. transparent District Tournament and economy and a need for students to In sum, our coaches tend to be the District Congress. We not only teach work to help provide for the family). most selfless, giving coaches in the valuable communication skills; we Yet, Eastern Ohio still celebrates state of Ohio. These are people who practice good communication between school district administrators who find tend to spend more time with their schools. Every coach is offered a ways to fund transportation costs, students than with their own family position in District Tournament/ tournament fees, and/or National and friends. We model dedication Congress operations. We have absolute Forensic League/OHSSL membership and commitment for our students belief in the integrity and honor fees. We acknowledge, with deep and colleagues, thereby earning their of those involved in our national gratitude, the hard work and dedication respect and ultimately their support. qualifying series. There are no secrets. The tournament process is well understood by all coaches and competitors. Decisions are not “handed-down,” but rather achieved from a thorough review of the governing rules and common consensus on the intent of those rules. Happily, the word “protest” is unheard of in Eastern Ohio. Fourth, Eastern Ohio celebrates the achievement of all of our
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 79 coache s' corner How to Choose a Summer Workshop
by Jason Sykes pring for most speech and for appropriate reasons that will debate programs represents serve the needs of each student and S many things—winding down his or her stage of development, some elements of competition, programmatic concerns, and regional gearing up for others, and making sensitivity. plans for the summer. Summer With the cost of workshops, workshops play an important role in inundation of advertisements, the individual progression of students conflicting words of wisdom from and competitive events. One week friends and colleagues, and the sheer of workshop can offer as much as number of institutes, choosing the a semester’s time in the classroom. right program can be a stressful Selecting the right workshop is the endeavor for parents, students, and key. even seasoned coaches. With that in Every year a new summer program mind, I have collected some helpful claims to fill a gap left by other tips for choosing summer workshop workshops or to offer something experiences that are right for you. innovative that provides a winning Some of these ideas are adapted edge. A common complaint I hear from those championed for years from coaches regarding summer by the Lincoln-Douglas Education institute is that students picked up Project, and some I have developed habits or pedagogical approaches through many seasons with students, that simply do not fit within the goals parents, and workshop participants. and needs of their programs. At the same time, students feel pressured Attend camp for the right reason. to choose camps that will push them We should be honest about the forward and improve their skill set fact that students enjoy spending beyond what is offered locally. time with each other and compete Thoughts on this article—or others? Comment on the NDCA website: It is vital through the workshop for reasons other than trophies and www.debatecoaches.org. If you selection process that students, educational value. For most of us, the would like to submit an article for NDCA Coaches' Corner, please contact coaches, and parents work together relationships we build with others are Carol Green Dennis at [email protected]. to ensure that institutes are chosen very important to our participation
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in forensics. While summer programs workshop take a long time to master is perhaps the most important can offer a chance to grow socially and should not be underestimated. prerequisite to audience adaptation. with other members of the speech Recent success may be a good Be sure that your squad, your coach, and debate community, prioritizing indication of knowledge of current your parents, and your local judges academic development is central to trends and developments in your will appreciate what you bring home. competitive growth. While it can event, but be careful. You may Choosing a workshop that values be tempting to attend camp with be better off with someone who your individual experience should be How to Choose a friends, students must focus on their remembers how to win and has also a paramount concern. own development. Take the long developed the necessary teaching view, and remember the purpose skills to help you understand the Play it safe. Parents and coaches Summer Workshop of attending a highly specialized same. Make sure that you are aware want kids to be happy and healthy. academic program—learning. of the specific academic objectives Workshops sometimes prioritize of the workshops you consider as other aspects of a camp experience Become a better competitor. Some well as their means for achieving at the expense of a balanced debate institutes are motivated by those goals. approach. Select institutes led by profit, prestige, or recruitment rather experienced administrative personnel than skill development. Remember Strive for improvement, but be who understand the intricacies of your priorities. If you do not intend humble. One of the most common protecting the safety of large student to leave summer workshop as a mistakes I see students and coaches groups. Be thankful for professionals stronger speaker or debater, you make is to overestimate their own who are willing to maintain should enjoy your vacation doing learning curve. An easy path to a appropriate learning environments. something more productive. Make frustrating experience is sitting in a Spending several weeks and many sure that you will have plenty of room for several weeks while your thousands of dollars does no one practice in front of experienced peers and instructors speak over your any good if students are sent home professionals. Critiqued practice head. Trust experienced coaches early for health or safety concerns. should be a central component of and teachers who regularly design Summer institute should be the workshop you choose. Large winning programs. Their advice demanding, but students must also lectures are sometimes a crucial part about where you should be is usually be well-fed, well-rested, and well- of your workshop experience, but accurate. It is far more important hydrated in order to take anything they should never entirely substitute to be met where you are and to away. I see countless students push the individualized work you receive develop from there rather than too hard only to find themselves from working in smaller groups with being in the “top lab” and getting exhausted for culminating practice experienced teachers. left behind on day one. At the same or competitive events. Workshops time, do not sell yourself short. This are more like marathons than sprints. Focus on teaching. Flashy names of difficult balance is hard to achieve, Make sure you choose a workshop recently successful competitors can and you must be honest with that puts your success and well-being be alluring, but think about what yourself about where you are and into perspective. these folks have been doing the last how you plan to progress during your few years—winning. It is rare that valuable weeks at camp. students who are focused on their own competitive success have the Remember your roots. Learning time to learn the fine arts of judging, an innovative trick might be fun, Jason Sykes is Associate Director of coaching, or, most importantly, but remember where you compete Debate at The Hockaday School in Dallas, teaching. Preparing a successful when you return home. Respecting Texas, and the Institute Director at the University of North Texas Mean Green lesson, managing a classroom, and the tendencies of your particular Workshops. He lives in Denton with his bringing outstanding experience to a squad, region, or competitive circuit wife Naomi and their two children.
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july 17-31, 2013 charlotte, nc
the coaches: something new is Lynne Coyne from Myers Park HS, NC, formerly of Coyne Ridge HS, NJ. Coach of coming. perennial national finalists and semifinalists.
This summer, join other highly Jason Kline, Assistant motivated public forum debaters for a Principal from Myers Park Kline HS, NC. Brings his years of program focused on quality education successful coaching and administrative experience. for students of all skill levels. Karina Momary from the Harker School in CA. Led her Momary middle school teams to NJFL School of Excellence awards www.ispeechanddebate.com quality instruction. in debate in 2011 and 2012. Jonathan Peele from the Harker School, CA. Coach of Peele numerous state and invitational champions in a range of events.
Robert Sheard from Durham Sheard Academy, NC. Coach of the 2008 NFL National Champions.
Bro. Kevin Tidd from the Delbarton School, NJ. Coach Tidd of the 2011 NFL Champions as well as 2010 and 2011 NCFL Champions.
Chase Williams, political consultant and assistant Williams coach. Contributed to the successes of numerous competitive success. summer fun. invitational and TOC finalists. the institute for speech and debate: public forum hear what they’re The Institute for Speech andis Debate a you'ʹre already an experienced debater, saying. new camp, designed, managed, and from Prelims to Finals. Come join the staffed by championship debate most exciting summer program Public “ISD will easily be the best coaches. Coaches from schools which Forum has:The Institute for Speech and Public Forum camp out there. have won 4 of the last 5 NFL National Debate. I’m excited to be going and to Championships are behind the Visit ispeechanddebate.com for enterprise, giving us the most additional information and to apply. see how much I improve celebrated faculty in the country. With a We look forward to seeing you in afterwards. “ small student-‐‑to-‐‑faculty ratio and focus Charlotte on the campus of Queens on quality education, theISD will take University this July 17-‐‑31. Act now, -‐‑ Augie Atencio, Delbarton ‘14 you from Novice to Nationals, or if enrollment will be limited.
a project of the coaches group, llc
www.nationalforensicleague.org
For more recent job listings, visit us online: Employment Opportunities www.nationalforensicleague.org/careers
Ankeny Centennial High School Seeks English or Social Studies Teacher, Head Debate Coach Ankeny Centennial High School is a college preparatory school in Ankeny, Iowa. Ankeny Schools are considered some of the best in the state, and this school in particular, which will open its doors for the first time in August 2013, is actively searching for a highly qualified High School English or Social Studies teacher who can also serve as a Head Debate Coach during its inaugural season. Interested applicants should email Kevin Biggs, District Director of Athletics and Activities, at [email protected].
Bellaire High School Seeks Full-Time Policy Debate Coach Bellaire High School anticipates an opening for a full-time Policy Debate coach for the 2013-14 school year.
• Located in Houston, Texas. • 73 Policy Debate teams qualified for the National Forensic League National Tournament. • Top 10 nationally ranked program each of the last 10 years. • Attended National Forensic League Nationals 55 of 57 years of the program’s existence. • Local, regional, state, and national travel opportunities. • Full-time teaching position available (Communication Applications and Debate classes). • Candidate should be effective coaching both communication-oriented Policy Debate as well as TOC. • Position offers maximum time to coach students with minimal administrative responsibilities.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter addressed to Jay Stubbs at [email protected].
Boston Debate League Seeks Full-Time Director of Programs
The Boston Debate League (BDL) is seeking a full-time Director of Programs. The Director of Programs will enhance and implement BDL’s strategic programmatic vision throughout Boston Public Schools, inventing solutions to new challenges as BDL expands both programs within existing schools and new schools. With strong support from the district, BDL looks to expand from serving 18 schools and 600 students to serving the entire district with their After School Debate League and Evidence Based Argumentation (EBA) programs.
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter addressed to Steve Stein at http://www.commongoodcareers.org/jobs/detail/bdl-director-of-programs/.
BDL is partnering with Commongood Careers on this search. Learn more about CGC at www.commongoodcareers.org.
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Cheyenne East High School Seeking Speech/Debate Coach Cheyenne East High School in Wyoming is looking for a new speech/debate coach for the Fall of 2013. Cheyenne is located 100 miles north of Denver, CO. East High School serves 1,600 students. The base salary is $46,000 with an additional generous coaching stipend. Class size is in the low twenties. An English endorsement would be preferred. We are seeking a head coach and have an assistant coaching staff in place. Fundraising is minimal, as our program is funded by the local school district. Interested applicants should fill out the application form and submit transcripts online at www.laramie1.org. Questions? Contact Michael Starks at (307) 630-6103.
Lake Highland Preparatory School Seeks Upper School English Teacher, Extemporaneous Speaking and Original Oratory Coach for 2013-2014 Year
Lake Highland Preparatory is a coeducational, Pre-K through 12 college preparatory school in Orlando, Florida. The school is actively searching for a highly qualified Upper School English Teacher who has experience coaching high school forensics and specializes in coaching individual speech events. The focal point of the coaching responsibilities would be in extemporaneous speaking and original oratory. Interested applicants should attach a detailed resume and send by email to Mike Jakubisin, Director of the Upper School ([email protected]).
Poly Prep Seeking Part-Time Assistant Coach
Poly Prep Country Day School in Brooklyn, NY is seeking a part-time assistant coach with tournament experience/ success. At a minimum, this position would require coaching approximately eight hours per week and attending tournaments. Compensation would be on a per hour/per tournament basis. This position has the potential to expand depending on outcomes. Candidates with Interp experience are especially encouraged to apply.
Interested candidates should email a resume, cover letter, and references to Brent Adams at [email protected].
University School Seeks Upper School English Teacher, Assistant Speech and Debate Coach
University School of Nova Southeastern is a college preparatory school in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The school is actively searching for a highly qualified Upper School English teacher who can also serve as an Assistant Speech and Debate Coach. Interested applicants should email Steven Schappaugh ([email protected]), Associate Director for Student Life and the Director of Speech and Debate.
As a part of the Nova Southeastern University community, teachers receive benefits that include tuition discounts for graduate degrees! Another outstanding benefit is a competitive retirement package.
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DISTRICT STANDINGS (as of March 1, 2013) No. of Rank Change District Average Leading Chapter No. of Degrees Degrees 1 -- Three Trails (KS) 238 Blue Valley North High School 818 2 -- Florida Manatee 232 Nova High School 770 3 -- Northwest Indiana 229 Munster High School 542 4 -- East Los Angeles (CA) 219 Gabrielino High School 831 5 -1 Calif. Coast (CA) 216 Leland High School 969 6 -- East Kansas 201 Shawnee Mission East HS & Olathe Northwest HS 422 7 -- Rushmore (SD) 197 Sioux Falls Lincoln High School 474 8 -- Kansas Flint-Hills 193 Emporia High School 391 9 -- Northern South Dakota 187 Aberdeen Central High School 365 10 3 Show Me (MO) 186 Blue Springs South High School 396 11 -- New York City 179 The Bronx High School of Science 965 12 -2 San Fran Bay (CA) 175 James Logan High School 640 13 -1 Eastern Ohio 173 Perry High School 377 14 -- Illini (IL) 167 Downers Grove South High School 450 15 -- Nebraska 163 Millard North High School 491 16 2 New Jersey 160 Ridge High School 459 17 -2 Montana 155 Glacier High School 346 18 2 Ozark (MO) 152 Central High School - Springfield 612 19 2 Rocky Mountain-South (CO) 151 George Washington High School 483 19 -- Sunflower (KS) 151 Valley Center High School 438 19 -2 Northern Ohio 151 Canfield High School 338 22 -- Heart Of America (MO) 146 Liberty Sr. High School 677 22 2 Southern California 146 Claremont High School 381 24 8 Southern Minnesota 140 Eagan High School 460 24 6 Northern Illinois 140 Glenbrook North High School 469 26 -3 Sierra (CA) 139 Sanger High School 509 26 1 Utah-Wasatch 139 Sky View High School 370 28 -3 South Texas 138 Bellaire High School 541 29 -3 West Kansas 136 Salina High Central 361 30 -1 Carver-Truman (MO) 131 Neosho High School 390 30 -1 Sundance (UT) 131 Bingham High School 400 32 -- Central Minnesota 130 Eastview High School 425 33 -5 Western Ohio 127 Centerville High School 243 33 -1 South Carolina 127 Southside High School 420 35 -3 New England (MA & NH) 124 Newton South High School 295 35 5 Idaho Mountain River 124 Highland High School 356 37 2 Golden Desert (NV) 123 Green Valley High School 337 38 -- East Texas 121 William P. Clements High School 424 39 -7 Deep South (AL) 120 The Montgomery Academy 303 39 5 Florida Panther 120 Lake Highland Preparatory 369 39 2 Central Texas 120 Winston Churchill High School 315 42 -5 West Iowa 119 Dowling Catholic High School 391 43 -2 Idaho Gem of the Mountain 118 Mountain Home High School 303 44 -- Colorado 117 Cherry Creek High School 513 45 -1 New Mexico 116 East Mountain High School 224 46 -2 South Kansas 115 Fort Scott High School 261 46 15 Greater Illinois 115 University High School 172 46 -3 North Coast (OH) 115 Solon High School 251 49 4 Arizona 114 Desert Vista High School 375 49 -- Lone Star (TX) 114 Plano Sr. High School 289 51 6 Wind River (WY) 112 Green River High School 307 51 -3 Eastern Missouri 112 Pattonville High School 257 53 -2 Tarheel East (NC) 111 Cary Academy 369 54 -1 Northeast Indiana 110 Chesterton High School 414 54 -5 North Texas Longhorns 110 Coppell High School 221
86 Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 (as of March 1, 2013) DISTRICT STANDINGS No. of Rank Change District Average Leading Chapter No. of Degrees Degrees 56 1 Pittsburgh (PA) 109 North Allegheny Sr. High School 541 57 -6 Colorado Grande 108 Pueblo West High School 219 57 2 Great Salt Lake (UT) 108 Skyline High School 315 59 6 Hole In The Wall (WY) 104 Cheyenne East High School 237 60 -- Big Valley (CA) 103 Turlock High School 194 60 -5 Heart Of Texas 103 Hendrickson High School 407 62 6 Northern Lights (MN) 100 Moorhead High School 251 63 -2 Valley Forge (PA) 99 Truman High School 169 63 1 Georgia Northern Mountain 99 Henry W. Grady High School 314 65 -4 West Los Angeles (CA) 98 Palos Verdes Peninsula High School 236 65 -10 Space City (TX) 98 Cypress Woods High School 310 65 6 Hoosier Heartland (IN) 98 Fishers High School 246 68 -3 South Florida 97 Ransom Everglades Upper School 229 69 -1 Southern Wisconsin 96 Brookfield East High School 219 69 -4 Northern Wisconsin 96 Appleton East High School 368 71 1 Puget Sound (WA) 95 Snohomish High School 230 72 2 Nebraska South 91 Lincoln East High School 226 73 2 Carolina West (NC) 90 Ardrey Kell High School 236 73 -5 Inland Empire (WA) 90 Coeur D’Alene High School 207 75 -2 Mississippi 87 Oak Grove High School 174 76 1 Tennessee 86 Morristown West High School 255 76 3 North Oregon 86 Westview High School 299 78 -- New York State 85 Scarsdale High School 253 79 2 Western Washington 84 Gig Harbor High School 283 80 -5 UIL (TX) 82 Whitehouse High School 175 80 -1 East Oklahoma 82 Jenks High School 272 82 4 Georgia Southern Peach 81 Carrollton High School 206 83 -1 Kentucky 80 Rowan County Sr. High School 235 84 -1 Florida Sunshine 79 Pine View School 330 84 4 West Oklahoma 79 Norman High School 210 84 -1 Tall Cotton (TX) 79 Central High School - San Angelo 159 84 -1 Rocky Mountain-North (CO) 79 Rocky Mountain High School 200 88 4 Arkansas 78 Bentonville High School 119 89 -3 Western Slope (CO) 77 Central of Grand Junction High School 140 90 4 Chesapeake (MD) 73 Baltimore City College High School 158 91 -2 North Dakota Roughrider 72 Fargo Shanley High School 149 91 -2 LBJ (TX) 72 Richardson High School 198 93 -2 East Iowa 70 West High School - Iowa City 177 94 -2 Capitol Valley (CA) 70 Granite Bay High School 212 95 1 Hoosier Crossroads (IN) 69 Warren Central High School 142 96 2 West Virginia 68 Wheeling Park High School 113 97 -1 Gulf Coast (TX) 66 Gregory Portland High School 204 98 -3 Maine 65 Cape Elizabeth High School 152 99 1 Louisiana 64 Lafayette High School 155 100 3 Virginia 62 Broad Run High School 204 101 -2 Yellow Rose (TX) 61 Princeton High School 196 102 -1 South Oregon 58 Ashland High School 107 103 -2 Michigan 56 Portage Northern High School 127 104 -- West Texas 55 El Paso Coronado High School 138 105 1 Hawaii 54 Kamehameha Schools 117 105 -- Pacific Islands 54 CheongShim Int’l Academy 135 107 -1 Sagebrush (NV) 53 Reno High School 158 108 1 Pennsylvania 49 Bellwood-Antis High School 126 109 -1 Iroquois (NY) 38 Towanda Jr. - Sr. High School 108
Rostm ru | APRIL 2013 87 Forensics Our team is made up of students from 15 different states representing 21 different majors on campus. Forensics Team Recognition: • The only collegiate forensics team ever to win COLLEGE the Individual Events National Championship, The academic experience of a highly selective the Debate National Championship, and the private institution with the educational and International Championship in the same year research opportunities available at a major public university. • Winners of the International Forensic Association World Championship every year • Recognized as one of the nation’s top producers in attendance of J. William Fulbright grants • Recognized by the United States Senate • Recognized for excellence in science, and House of Representatives for Forensics mathematics and engineering by the prestigious Excellence Barry Goldwater Scholarship program For more information about WKU Forensics, visit • More than $2 million in renewable scholarships www.wkuforensics.com awarded annually to the Honors freshman class Apply to the Honors College today at www.wku.edu/honors Three Distinct Opportunities you do not want to miss...
Scholarships The Cherry Presidential and 1906 Founders Scholarship • Requires a 31 ACT/1360 SAT and 3.8 unweighted GPA • Valued between $11,000-$15,000 annually, covering full tuition, and allowances for housing and books Applicants not selected for the Cherry or Founders awards that have a 3.9 GPA will receive a 100 percent in-state tuition award; those with a 3.8-3.89 GPA will receive a 50 percent in-state tuition award. Regents Scholarship • Requires a 28 ACT/1240 SAT and a 3.90 unweighted GPA • Valued at nearly $8,500 annually, covering full tuition National/International Academic Scholarship (NIAS) • Requires a 24 ACT/1090 SAT and 3.4 unweighted GPA • Covers 75% of the difference between the non-resident tuition rate and the Kentucky resident tuition rate
Kristina Medero Application and information on many other Ft. Lauderdale, Florida scholarships available at www.wku.edu/financialaid Honors College Class of 2015 Featured on HBO’s “Brave New Voices” On behalf ot the WKU Forensics Team and the Honors College... CONGRATULATIONS to all 2013 NFL National Tournament Qualifiers!
Plan to see us at the WKU table during the National Learn more about opportunities at WKU, such Tournament Expo and National Final Rounds. as exclusive study abroad destinations, personal Speak with representatives from the Forensics Team mentoring for prestigious scholarship competitions, and the Honors College at WKU and independent research
Enter your name in a drawing for two $500 scholarships to attend WKU! (Certain restrictions apply.)* *Scholarship winners must be accepted and enrolled in the Honors College at WKU.
Forensics
• Our team is made up of students from 17 diff erent • The academic experience of a highly selective states representing 21 diff erent majors on campus private institution with the educational and research opportunities available at a major public university • The only collegiate forensics team ever to win the Individual Events National Championship, • 68% of the Honors College Class of 2016 received the Debate National Championship, and the full-tuition scholarships with a total of 2.2 million in International Championship in the same year renewable funding • More information at wkuforensics.com • Visit and apply online today at: www.wku.edu/honors
Jamaque Newberry Class of 2015, Tamarac, FL National Champion NFL Dramatic Interpretation 2011
Lindsey White Honors College, Class of 2014, St. Paul, MN National Champion NFL Humorous Interpretation 2009 NFL Humorous Interpretation 2010
THE PLACE WHERE NATIONAL CHAMPIONS CHOOSE TO CONTINUE THEIR EDUCATION