Article: The scoring rubric should break potential points into several categories. Award points for each category based on the notes you took during the debate. Typical categories for assessment ask you consider if the competitor:  Directly addressed the topic. Understood the basic issue. Clearly explained their position. Made a convincing case, complete with specific evidence. Explained the other side’s weaknesses. Responded directly to the other side’s critique. Used appropriate body language, volume, speed, and diction. Was courteous to the other side. Competitors and schools look to your feedback as a way to learn and coach participants. As a judge, you should model decorum, courtesy, and clarity when writing your feedback. The language of your feedback should also be inclusive. For example:  Avoid feedback like “The competitor’s presentation was boring and seemed pointless. It seems to me like they’ve never even studied the basics of American government.” Instead, offer the critique more constructively: “For future debates, I recommend focusing on making delivery more animated to underscore main points. A review of Congressional argumentation procedure may also be useful.” Likewise, avoid unnecessary exclusions of gender, age, and other aspects of identity. For example, rephrase “I always advise a young competitor that he should should observe experienced competitors in action” as “I always advise participants to closely observe other competitors in action.” After you have completed scores for each category of the rubric, you can tally up to get the final score. Determine the winner according to the highest score. Double-check that your feedback is complete, and turn the ballots in to the tournament organizer. Keep in mind that the organizer may also ask you to give an oral critique or to disclose the results.

What is a summary?
Check the rubric against your flow sheet. Style your feedback consciously. Complete the ballot and turn it in.