Gray,+Alex

I coach public forum at Eagan High School. I have previously coached speech/debate at Blaine High School and Moorhead High School.

During the day, I teach social studies at VOA High School in Minneapolis.


 * PF**
 * Evidence should consist of direct quotes, not paraphrasing. This is not extemp.
 * Cards should have warrants. Like paraphrased source cites, one-sentences cards do not provide supporting evidence of why your claim is true
 * If you're going to run a framework, it should be more than one sentence long, clearly link to the resolution, and provide a means for weighing and impacting your arguments. Extend and warrant it in each speech; don't just read it in your constructive and randomly bring it up again in the final focus.
 * Signpost and tell me where you are on the flow. Refer to arguments by their card name and which contention/subpoint they are in. Make it easy for me to follow which arguments you're referencing and I'll be much more likely to vote on them.
 * I believe the 2nd rebuttal has a responsibility to cover both flows, or at least the major arguments the 1st rebuttal made on their case (especially turns).
 * Summaries should crystallize the round. Focus on a few main issues. Don't just do line-by-line.
 * Final focuses should respond to what happened in the summaries and grand crossfire. Don't just repeat exactly what the summaries said.

__General info:__ -Signpost every response you make in rebuttal. Number your responses when applicable. This will make the flow more organized for you and for me. -Don't extend framework and contentions without responding to your opponent's refutation first. -Impact arguments back to a framework. -Proper extensions include a warrant and impact, not just the tag or author. -Your cards should have warrants. One-sentence cards do not make for well-developed arguments.
 * LD**

__Theory:__ I've only seen a couple rounds total where I thought the level of abuse from a debater truly justified theory. Don't run theory as just another argument; I prefer that you debate the resolution.

__Kritiks:__ I like critical or otherwise outside-the-box arguments. I don't like complex arguments that are incoherently watered-down and/or obviously cut by a coach. I'd prefer to see on-case critical arguments developed within the context of the resolution.

__Decorum:__ Don't be a jerk during cross-x or your speaks will suffer. Give your opponents time to answer your questions and ask you questions, too. This is particularly important for men, who, according to a wealth of research, are more likely to speak aggresively, interrupt others, etc.
 * Miscellaneous**

__Disclosure:__ I will provide oral feedback if all debaters want me to. I welcome constructive questions from you during that time. I will probably not disclose unless we're at a circuit tournament.

__Questions:__ Feel free to ask me questions before the round! I prefer specific questions over "What's your paradigm?"