Public Forum explanation from CCofSE:

Academic debate is a persuasive speech event centered on the clash of issues. In Public Forum debate, students must be prepared to both advocate for and refute a specific proposition (a statement expressing a judgment or opinion).

Unlike Team Policy debate, a Public Forum proposition does not pose a problem requiring a policy solution. Furthermore, unlike Lincoln-Douglas debate, Public Forum does not focus on arguing core values.

(Note: Public Forum is designed for debaters ages 10 to 13, assessed as of October 1st. Students who are 9 or 14 on this date may participate with coach approval.)

*Please note that not all out of town tournaments offer Public Forum Debate.