Debates Levels

Novice Level

The Novice level in debate is designed specifically for beginners who are new to the activity, typically in their first year of competing. It serves as an introductory stage where students learn the fundamental skills of debating, such as constructing arguments, organizing speeches, public speaking, and engaging in respectful discourse. At this level, the focus is more on education and skill development rather than intense competition. Debaters are usually introduced to the basic structure of debate formats, including how to present a case, respond to opponents, and deliver effective rebuttals. Speeches are delivered at a slower pace to ensure clarity and comprehension, and the arguments tend to be simpler and less technical. Judges in novice rounds are often more lenient and provide constructive feedback aimed at helping students improve rather than focusing solely on who wins the round.Overall, the novice level creates a supportive and low-pressure environment for new debaters to build confidence, develop their critical thinking skills, and prepare for more advanced levels of competition.

Junior Varsity (JV) or Intermediate level

The Junior Varsity (JV) or Intermediate level in debate is the next step after novice, intended for students who have gained some foundational experience—typically second-year debaters or those who have demonstrated readiness to handle more advanced competition. At this level, debaters begin to refine their argumentative and strategic skills, moving beyond the basics to develop deeper analysis, quicker thinking, and more structured responses. Speeches become faster and more complex, incorporating a wider range of evidence and more nuanced reasoning. Competitors are expected to clash more directly with their opponents, identifying logical flaws, weighing impacts, and making more strategic decisions during rounds. Judges at the JV level maintain a balance between encouraging growth and enforcing stricter standards, offering feedback that pushes debaters toward varsity-level proficiency. This stage serves as a crucial bridge between the learning-focused novice division and the highly competitive varsity level, allowing students to challenge themselves while still developing in a supportive environment.

Varsity Level

The Varsity level in debate is the highest standard of competition, reserved for experienced debaters who have mastered foundational skills and are capable of handling complex, fast-paced rounds. Typically, varsity debaters have spent at least two years in the activity and have progressed through novice and junior varsity levels. At this stage, the focus shifts to advanced strategy, technical proficiency, and depth of argumentation. Speeches are delivered at a rapid pace, often using a technique called “spreading” (speaking quickly to include more arguments), and debaters are expected to present well-researched, logically sound, and impactful cases. They must also respond to and dismantle opponents’ arguments with precision, using tools like impact calculus, theory, and advanced framework debates. Judges at the varsity level are usually highly experienced and hold debaters to strict standards, evaluating rounds based on clarity, strategic decisions, evidence use, and overall persuasion. Varsity debate is highly competitive, with debaters often competing for state, national, or even international .