Public Debate
Public Debate

Argue with Purpose,
Debate with Power

Build compelling arguments, respond to opponents in real-time, and demonstrate mastery of evidence-based persuasion as a team of passionate debaters.

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Team discussion and teamwork
Event Overview

Command the Argument
as a Team

Public Debate challenges teams of 2-3 students to construct compelling arguments, respond to opponents in real-time, and demonstrate mastery of evidence-based persuasion. Topics are announced 2-4 weeks before the competition, giving teams time to research and prepare thoroughly. Teams are assigned positions through a coin flip, requiring preparation for both sides of an argument.

This category is held in conjunction with the prestigious HBCU I Am Me Emerging Leaders Conference, providing an unparalleled platform to showcase your leadership voice and critical thinking alongside the nation's brightest HBCU students.

Teams of 2-3

Students per team

16 Min Total

Debate length

Competition Rules

Event Rules & Guidelines

Clear expectations and standards ensure fair competition and excellence across the board.

Team Composition

2-3 students from the same HBCU required for team competition

Topic Announcement

Topics are announced 2-4 weeks before competition

Position Assignment

Teams are assigned "for" or "against" positions through a coin flip

Evidence Required

Must use evidence, data, and logical reasoning to support arguments

Professional Conduct

Respect for opponents required at all times during competition

Time Limits

Opening 5min, Rebuttals 3min, Cross-Exam 5min, Closing 3min

How It Works

Event Format & Process

From opening arguments to closing remarks, understand the complete debate structure and flow.

Phase 1

Opening Statements

5 minutes each side

  • • Present core arguments
  • • Establish position clearly
  • • Set framework for debate
  • • Define key terms
Phase 2

Rebuttals

3 minutes each side

  • • Address opponent's arguments
  • • Defend your position
  • • Introduce counter-evidence
  • • Identify logical fallacies
Phase 3

Cross-Examination

5 minutes

  • • Direct questioning of opponents
  • • Challenge opponent's claims
  • • Expose weaknesses in logic
  • • Demonstrate knowledge depth
Phase 4

Closing Statements

3 minutes each side

  • • Summarize key points
  • • Reinforce strongest arguments
  • • Final persuasive appeal
  • • Motivate judges toward your position
Evaluation Criteria

Scoring Rubric (100 Points)

Your team is evaluated across six key dimensions of debate excellence.

Content & Evidence

25

Assessed on:

  • Quality of arguments
  • Use of evidence and data
  • Logical reasoning
  • Depth of analysis

Organization

20

Assessed on:

  • Structure of arguments
  • Clear transitions
  • Effective use of time
  • Strategic approach

Delivery

20

Assessed on:

  • Voice quality & projection
  • Confidence & poise
  • Eye contact & presence
  • Professional demeanor

Rebuttal & Cross-Exam

15

Assessed on:

  • Strength of rebuttals
  • Quality of cross-exam questions
  • Countering opposing arguments
  • Quick thinking

Teamwork

10

Assessed on:

  • Coordination between members
  • Complementary roles
  • Unified strategy
  • Smooth speaker transitions

Cultural Relevance

10

Assessed on:

  • Connection to HBCU experience
  • Relevance to Black community
  • Historical awareness
  • Contemporary application
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Participant Information

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Institution Details

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Team Information *

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Competition Categories *

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