7-slide student guide
September Tournament Topic Analysis
A concise introduction to hyperscale data centers, what a construction moratorium means, and the strongest arguments available to both sides.
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Active PF Resolution — Sept/Oct 2026
7-slide student guide
A concise introduction to hyperscale data centers, what a construction moratorium means, and the strongest arguments available to both sides.
💡 Full evidence files, briefs, and flows available in the Members Portal Members Portal →
The official NSDA Public Forum topic analysis including definitions, background, and key stakeholders for the current resolution.
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CISA, DNI, DOD, and Congressional Research Service reports on AI in national security — the gold standard for pro evidence.
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Peer-reviewed research on AI ethics, surveillance, civil liberties, and international security from major universities.
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A strong 4-minute constructive has 2–3 contentions, each with a clear claim, warrant, and impact. Lead with your strongest argument and pre-empt top counterarguments.
Use crossfire strategically: ask short, closed questions to expose contradictions. Never answer a question you haven't thought through. Control pace — don't let your opponent run the clock.
In summary, extend 2–3 key issues with offense. Respond to the most damaging attacks. In Final Focus, crystalize 1–2 voting issues and explain why you win them.
Compare arguments using magnitude (how big), probability (how likely), and timeframe (how soon). A clear calculus framing wins close rounds.
Speak conversationally in PF — judges want to understand you, not be impressed by speed. Eye contact, vocal variation, and clear signposting make you a more persuasive speaker.
Practice Methods
We run full practice rounds weekly to build comfort with PF timing. Timers always running — no exceptions.
Flowing is a critical skill. We practice flowing pre-written speeches until every debater can flow at full speaking speed.
We record and review practice rounds to identify speech habits, argument gaps, and crossfire patterns to improve.
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