CX Purpose and Strategies The way you ask the things you do….

Standing side by side Why CX is important Yes or No…. Controlling your time CX is a continuation of your discussion with the judge. Your goals in CX show your knowledge of the topic and articulate your arguments while engaging in your opponents’ arguments.

Standing Side by Side 2 You are speaking to the judge; you are not trying to persuade your opponent. eye contact and body language should be directed at the judge, not your opponent. BUT steal a glance at opponent's body language.. A useful phrase to know “Please read me from case where you prove….”

How to start 3. Start with a prepared question to create a good impression and put you on the offensive. a) Ask a question that helps to advertise your case position. If I show that X is the case, do I win the round?

Down the Flow Go down the flow in order from questions about definitions ( which should NOT take up much time – definitional debates – except in extreme abuse situations will not win you many roounds) to last contention.

With Purpose!! Not random questions a) five specific purposes: clarification, refutation, preparation, focusing, undermining opponet's credibility (believability) b ) can't do all of these on every point of his/her case . Pick and choose which ones you go for against which points in his/her case.

Clarification Look smart asking for the points you missed in your opponent's case Ask specific questions- What does your first contention prove? What is the main idea (thesis) of Contention 1? What is the link between your V and VC? Why is your study on juvenile repeat offenders better than mine?

Concessions and Traps Ask about their position (case thesis) Ask questions in baby steps – get agreements to obvious points first. (garden path) Ask questions that reasonable people would have a hard time disagreeing with Question too far… Large audience tactics Re-word your opponent's argument – reduce it to absurdity Turn it Challenge evidence! – D-C-W

Set Up Questions Look for contradictions in the case Go after empirical studies Concessions – even on small things look good in next speech.

Conduct in CX Strong, pleasant personality KEEP your cool.

Responding Read your words from case Keep answers short Listen to how it was asked Responding to “wife beating questions” NO – rudeness, bullying

When You have Nothing Go down the flow Ask about each major element – make them repeat it in their own words Ask why X is true, make them tell you in their own words Ask them about specific pieces of evidence Use dumb responses in your next speech Ask for examples. Apply their position logic to a hard case and expose its potential for harm