How can you evaluate a debater's ability to stay on topic?

1 Define the topic

The first step is to define the topic clearly and agree on its scope and terms. The topic should be specific, debatable, and relevant to the audience and the context. For example, if the topic is "Should schools ban homework?", you should clarify what level of education, what type of homework, and what criteria for banning are involved. This will help you identify the main issues and arguments that are related to the topic and avoid confusion or ambiguity.

2 Identify the thesis

The second step is to identify the thesis or the main claim of each debater. The thesis should be clear, concise, and consistent with the topic. It should also be supported by evidence, reasoning, and analysis. For example, if the thesis is "Schools should ban homework because it causes stress and harms learning", you should look for facts, statistics, studies, examples, or logic that back up this claim. You should also check if the thesis is relevant to the topic and not a straw man, a red herring, or a false dilemma.

3 Evaluate the arguments

The third step is to evaluate the arguments or the subclaims that each debater uses to support their thesis. The arguments should be coherent, relevant, and valid. They should also address the counterarguments or the opposing views and refute them effectively. For example, if an argument is "Homework causes stress because it takes away time from family and leisure activities", you should examine if this is true, relevant, and sufficient to support the thesis. You should also see how the debater responds to the possible counterargument that homework can also enhance family and leisure activities by providing opportunities for collaboration and creativity.

4 Assess the delivery

The fourth step is to assess the delivery or the presentation of each debater. The delivery should be clear, engaging, and respectful. It should also follow the rules and format of the debate and use appropriate language and tone. For example, if the delivery is "Homework is a waste of time and a torture for students and parents. It should be abolished immediately and replaced with more fun and meaningful activities", you should evaluate if this is clear, engaging, and respectful. You should also consider if this follows the rules and format of the debate and if it uses appropriate language and tone.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?