The Connecticut Democracy Center Debate Tournament hosts competitive interscholastic team policy debate tournaments for middle and high school students focused on a Connecticut topic. While participants receive preliminary resources, they are encouraged to conduct additional research. Participants use their research to develop both negative and affirmative arguments, learn to cross examine their opposition, and listen attentively in order to rebut their opponent’s arguments. Participation in CTDC Debate improves students’ public speaking skills, ability to analyze issues and resources, and expertise in using evidence to support arguments.

How does the Connecticut Democracy Center Debate Tournament work?

  • Students form two person teams to debate both sides of a current topic.
  • There are two days of competition:
    • The first day entails two preliminary rounds for all teams.
    • The top 8 from preliminary rounds advance to a second day of out-rounds.
  • Students are scored in several areas, including delivery and analysis.

Interested in judging at one of the tournaments? Sign up HERE

Connecticut Democracy Center Debate Tournament

2025 Season Calendar

 

 Click here to view last year’s Tournament Results

 

For more information, please contact

Rebecca Taber, Director of Secondary Education Programs at Rebecca.Taber@ctdemocracycenter.org  (860) 240-5342

Katherine Novko, Secondary Education Programs Coordinator at Katherine.Novko@ctdemocracycenter.org (860) 240-5344

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