In Free Debate session, each team will be given a total of 4 minutes in delivering their speech. Speakers will be given a maximum of 10-second preparation time for each speech before the delivery. It is the choice of a speaker whether to consume the total 10 seconds each time. The 10-second preparation time will be counted separately from the 4-minute free debate time. Time keeper will ring the bell once to start the 10-second preparation right after the speaker has delivered his/her speech. When the 10-second preparation time ends, time keeper will ring once and the speaker of the opponent team should start to deliver the speech. Once the 10-second preparation time end and the bell rings, the time keeper will start and continue counting down the 4-minute free debate time whether the speaker is delivering the speech or not.
When the delivery time accumulates to 3 mins 30 seconds, the timekeeper will ring the bell once and a “30 seconds left sign” will be displayed on and off stage as reminder; and the speaker must continue his/her speech until using up the remaining time (change of speaker is prohibited). Otherwise, it will be considered as forfeiting the remaining time.
When either one team uses up its 4 minutes timeslot, the other team should continue to use up its remaining time by one speaker (change of speaker is prohibited). If the team chooses not to use up its remaining time, the team has to notify the chairperson.
The affirmative team will start the Free Debate followed by the opposition team. Each team can use the 4 minutes by separating them into several speeches. However, only one debater is allowed to deliver his/her speech at one time. Each individual speaker is obliged to participate during the free debate session. Non-participation of a single speaker means a reduction of 10 points out of the team’s total score.
There is no grace period in the Free Debate session. Speaker must end his or her speech after the bell rang. Otherwise, the adjudicators reserve the right to deduct the marks. |
