The Trojan War
2026 — Rigby, ID/US
Novice Public Forum
Event Description:
Idaho Debate Code (IDC)
https://idhsaa.org/asset/DEBATE/Debate%20Rules%202025%20Update.pdf
New Arguments: New issues shall not be advanced in rebuttal speeches; however, additional evidence and extensions on previous arguments are appropriate.
Speaker Points: In Public Forum Debate, each speaker will be awarded speaker points on a 30-point scale with no partial points permitted. Speaker points should reflect the holistic presentation of the speaker
Procedure and order of speeches: Prior to EVERY round and in the presence of the judge(s), a coin is tossed by one team and called by the other team. The team that wins the flip may choose one of two options: EITHER the SIDE of the topic they wish to defend (pro or con) OR the SPEAKING POSITION they wish to have (begin the debate or end the debate). The remaining option (SIDE OR SPEAKING POSITION) is the choice of the team that loses the flip. Once speaking positions and sides has been determined, the debate begins (the con team may lead, depending on the coin flip results). Following the first two constructive speeches, the two debaters who have just given speeches will stand and participate in a three-minute "crossfire". In "crossfire" both debaters "hold the floor." However, the speaker who spoke first must ask the first question. After that question, either debater may question and/or answer at will. At the conclusion of the summary speeches, all four debaters will remain seated and participate in a three-minute "Grand Crossfire” in which all four debaters are allowed to cross-examine one another. The speaker who gave the first summary speech must ask the first question. The speakers from each team will continue to ask and answer questions. Teams should alternate asking and answering questions rather than allowing one team to dominate so that a balance between teams is achieved. All speakers are encouraged to participate in the Grand Crossfire. Speakers should listen respectfully to opponents’ questions and answers.
First Speaker - Team A 4 minutes
First Speaker - Team B 4 minutes
Crossfire 3 minutes
Second Speaker - Team A 4 minutes
Second Speaker - Team B 4 minutes
Crossfire 3 minutes
Summary - First Speaker - Team A 3 minutes
Summary - First Speaker - Team B 3 minutes
Grand Crossfire 3 minutes
Final Focus - Second Speaker - Team A 2 minutes
Final Focus - Second Speaker - Team B 2 minutes
Prep Time 3 minutes per team
Timed Road Maps: To ensure that rounds stay on time, speakers will be allotted a ten second ‘road map’ before their speech time begins. No arguments may be advanced during this time period.
Plans/Counterplans: In Public Forum Debate, the Association defines a plan or counterplan as a formalized, comprehensive proposal for implementation. Neither the pro or con side is permitted to offer a plan or counterplan; rather, they should offer reasoning to support a position of advocacy. Debaters may offer generalized, practical solutions.
Prompting Philosophy: Oral prompting, except time signals, either by the speaker's colleague or by any other person while the debater has the floor, is discouraged though not prohibited and may be penalized by some judges. Debaters may, however, refer to their notes and materials and may consult with their teammate while they do not have the floor and during the Grand Crossfire.
Use of electronic devices: The use of laptop computers is permitted ...Laptop use must comply with the Guidelines for Laptop Use in Debate Events.
Timing: Timekeepers are an option but not required. If no timekeeper is used, debaters may time for their partners or the judge may keep time. Prep time for each team is two minutes.