Module 3: Intro to Motion Types
In this module, we go through the most common types of debate motions. We explain how teams should debate them and how judges should judge them, since different debate motions call for different arguments, burdens, and criteria for judging the round. By the end of this module, you should have a clear idea of the differences between debate motions (even if they are all on the same topic).
Theory videos
Teck Wei is a DCA for WUDC 2020.
The first video is a brief introduction to the topic and an overview of why this topic is simple, but essential, to being a good judge.
Amrit was a DCA for ABP 2019.
The main portion of the module consists of a thorough walkthrough of the most common types of motions. In part 1, we cover: TH supports, TH opposes, TH welcomes, TH regrets, and TH prefers.
Sooyoung is a DCA for WUDC 2021.
In part 2, we cover: TH would, TH as X, TH believes that, TH believes that X should. Finally, we wrap up by comparing several motion types about a single topic, to help illustrate and recap the subtle and nuanced differences between them.
Mubarrat is a DCA for WUDC 2020.
Finally, we have a video dedicated to discussing the thorny issues of definitions, fiat, and models. These are all essential to a clear debate, and conversely can lead to many confusing judging scenarios if handled poorly. It is essential that judges understand how these concepts operate.
Answering your questions...
We believe that a good training program should, wherever possible, be a conversation. At the end of each module, we want to answer some commonly asked questions from the community. By sharing these answers on this page, we hope that your questions (and our answers) will make this resource even more useful over time.
There's nothing here?
That's because we've just started receiving questions and feedback from you. We hope to update this section soon. In the meantime, you can help by asking questions about any of our modules here .
Assessment
We are also considering giving formal credit for those that will watch all the videos ie newer WUDC judges will get to claim a completion of the series as part of their CV for WUDC. Many judges do not come from established circuits or have access to the ample opportunities that come from being in such a circuit.
A certification can serve as an equalizer for those that have fewer chances to participate in tournaments and judge with highly trained adjudicators. Completing the assessment pieces for each module will contribute to our formal credit/certification scheme once it is finalized.
The assessment exercise for this module on judge tracking can be found here .
Feedback?
If you have any feedback about the program, or suggestions for future topics we should cover, you can submit that here .