World Schools Format Explained
The World Schools round, speech by speech
| # | Speech | Side | Length | What it’s for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proposition 1st Speaker | Proposition | 8:00 | Builds the case and answers the other side |
| 2 | Opposition 1st Speaker | Opposition | 8:00 | Builds the case and answers the other side |
| 3 | Proposition 2nd Speaker | Proposition | 8:00 | Builds the case and answers the other side |
| 4 | Opposition 2nd Speaker | Opposition | 8:00 | Builds the case and answers the other side |
| 5 | Proposition 3rd Speaker | Proposition | 8:00 | Builds the case and answers the other side |
| 6 | Opposition 3rd Speaker | Opposition | 8:00 | Builds the case and answers the other side |
| 7 | Opposition Reply | Opposition | 4:00 | A last comparative overview |
| 8 | Proposition Reply | Proposition | 4:00 | A last comparative overview |
| Speaking time | 56:00 | Plus 60:00 motion prep (impromptu rounds) | ||
Scroll right for the full table →
The rules that actually matter
- Three students on each side: one side agrees with the topic, one disagrees.
- The 1st speakers go, then the 2nd speakers, then the 3rd speakers. The side that agrees goes first each time.
- Main speeches run 8 minutes each.
- Then each side gives a 4-minute closing speech. The side that disagrees gives theirs first.
- That closing speech has to be given by the 1st or 2nd speaker — never the 3rd — and can only sum up, not add new points.
- During a main speech, someone from the other side may stand and ask to make a quick point — but only between the 1st and 7th minute. The first and last minute are protected.
- Judges score three things: what was said, how well it was said, and how well the team organized it. Often 40% / 40% / 20%, but check your tournament.
- For surprise topics, teams get one full hour to plan.
Prepping a World Schools round?
Build your case with instant feedback, flow the round live, and run full practice rounds — free.
How to prep for a World Schools round
- Research the prepared topics as a team and split the main arguments between 1st and 2nd speakers.
- For surprise topics, use the full hour: agree on your case first, then write speeches.
- Rehearse taking quick points from the other side between the 1st and 7th minute.
- Remember style and strategy are scored, not just content. Practice delivery and how your speeches fit together.
How World Schools rounds are judged
- Balances prepared content with impromptu motions — check which round type you’re judging (impromptu motions get a full 60 minutes of team prep).
- Points of Information are expected during substantive speeches (between the 1st and 7th minute); factor how well they’re offered and handled. None are allowed during reply speeches.
- Style, strategy, and content are all explicitly weighted — the common split is Content 40% / Style 40% / Strategy 20%, but check your tournament’s exact rubric before the round.
- Substantive speeches usually score 60-80 (norm ~70); reply speeches score lower, usually 30-40 — don’t score a reply on the same scale as a full speech.
Check yourself
How many speakers are on a World Schools team?
Three
Who may deliver the reply speech?
The 1st or 2nd speaker — never the 3rd
When may Points of Information be offered during a substantive speech?
Between the 1st and 7th minute only
How long is a World Schools substantive speech?
8 minutes
Which three categories do World Schools judges score?
Content, Style, and Strategy
Frequently asked questions
What is the speech order in World Schools?
World Schools has 8 timed parts, in this order: Proposition 1st Speaker (8 minutes), Opposition 1st Speaker (8 minutes), Proposition 2nd Speaker (8 minutes), Opposition 2nd Speaker (8 minutes), Proposition 3rd Speaker (8 minutes), Opposition 3rd Speaker (8 minutes), Opposition Reply (4 minutes), Proposition Reply (4 minutes). That is 56 minutes of timed speaking and questioning in all, plus prep time.
How is World Schools debate scored?
Judges score content, style and strategy. A common split is 40% / 40% / 20%, but check your tournament.
Who gives the reply speech in World Schools?
The 1st or 2nd speaker, never the 3rd. The side against the topic replies first, and the reply can only sum up, not add new points.
When are points of information allowed?
During the main speeches, between the 1st and 7th minute. The first and last minute are protected.
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