MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies at Yale
MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies at Yale
South Asian Studies Council

Debate Rules

 

  • Scoring: Each speaker will make a three-minute speech in Hindi before the audience. After the speech, the speaker will answer one question, asked and answered in Hindi, from the audience. The speaker will be awarded a score out of 30 based on the following criteria:
    1. Argumentation (10 marks)
      • Speaker’s argument is well-crafted and follows a logical sequence (4)
      • Speaker addresses the arguments of possible opponents without deliberate misrepresentation (2)
      • Speaker’s argument demonstrates a clear understanding of the resolution and the questions it poses (2)
      • Speaker’s argument incorporates research and evidence where appropriate (2)
    2. Presentation (10 marks)
      • The speaker articulates words clearly, reading minimally from their prepared remarks, and minimizes the use of any non-Hindi words; the speaker makes eye contact, is not distracted, and maintains posture.
    3. Interjection (5 marks)
      • The speaker answers the interjector’s question confidently, effectively, and without deviating from the ideas expressed in their argument.
    4. Miscellaneous (5 marks)

      • The speaker fulfills the expectations of a Yale Hindi Debate participant, including wearing suitable attire (western business or formal South Asian), refraining from impolite or personal remarks, and abiding by the time-limit.

         

  • Best Interjector: The student who asks the single best question of the day will receive the Best Interjector prize, recognizing their contribution as a questioner, not a speaker, to the Yale Hindi Debate. Interjections are scored by the judges out of five potential marks. To be considered for the Best Interjector prize, the questioner must be sure to state their name at the beginning of their question. Once an interjector poses a question, no follow-up questions are permitted.

     

  • Time: The time allotted for speech is three minutes. Speakers can be over or under that time by up to two to four minutes. A speaker whose speech is shorter than two minutes or longer than four minutes will lose points in the miscellaneous category.
    • The timekeeper will keep track of the time, and do as follows:
      • Ring FIRST warning bell at 2:30
      • Ring FINAL warning bell at 3:30

    • After the speaker has finished speaking, the speaker must remain at the podium for the upcoming interjection.

       

  • Language: Speakers should seek to avoid using English in their speeches, but prioritize understanding above all. The use of both Sanskritized and Persianized Hindustani is welcome.

     

  • Decorum: Speakers may not address another speaker or a questioner by name, and should not make any rude or impersonal remarks over the course of the debate.