BEGINNER QUESTIONS - DEBASICS
Many know what debate is, but not what it is all about. Here some of the most frequently asked questions and most common misconceptions -answered for you in one simple place! If you have questions or concerns not answered here, feel free to use our Voice Your Opinion section to let us know your thoughts.
01
How do competitions work?
Unlike many other clubs, there isn't just one competitive event, with preliminaries such as regional and provincial qualifiers. Instead, their are a multitude of debate tournaments with varying degrees of difficulty (in terms of other debaters and resolution difficulty). People often enjoy it better, because with over 8 tournaments on average each year, people get to compete and actually get ready for the next competition rather than have to wait a whole year.
You only sign up for tournaments you want, and for some you will be required to do research and prepare points and case studies for "prepared resolution" rounds. You pay for these specific ones, and no others, and can always access information about Tournaments in our "Tournaments section". We also plan on creating an RHHS debate tournament here, hosted by other schools, so stay tuned for that!
02
Oops - I missed the first meeting! Does that mean I can't join debate? Whatever will I do with my life?
Relax and don't panic - debate isn't like those other clubs. If you don't sign up on day one, or miss a meeting, that's completely fine. Since debate competitions are on a tournament basis, you can come any weeks you are free on Tuesdays, for sure, even as a casual member. Though attendance is looked into later on for executive applications, positions and generally will help you become better at debate, it is by no means mandatory, so if you have that test the next day - go study!
03
I'm lonely and can't find a partner. Can I still debate?
Many people ask this question, fearful they won't be allowed if they come empty-handed (without a partner). However, the whole idea of partnerships are you try many out until you find the one you work best with - they don't have to be your best friend and may barely even talk to you, but if you two just click then wonderful. If you do not have a partner, we automatically set you up with another individual who doesn't either, and this happens very often, so don't worry. If by chance no one is available, we allow you to watch, time, substitute in or even judge, depending on your skills level, so you're never just sitting there doing nothing. If you don't have a partner, come, find one!