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Tip the Scales in Cross-X - By: Jessica Bentz

Cross-examination, when approached correctly, can be one of the most effective tools in public forum debate. It can be used to make your opponents concede key points, which may then be integrated into your speeches. It also provides an opportunity to develop your positive impression with the judge. There a few key things to keep in mind as you develop your cross-examination style. Many of these seem to go without saying, yet are ignored time and again during rounds. The first key to a successful cross-examination is always having a few questions in mind that you intend on asking your opponent(s). Although you may get caught up in the flow and never use them, it is imperative to have something to fall back on. Not asking anything is the worst thing you can do in a cross-examination. It is most effective to have some questions in mind that can lay groundwork for your future arguments. Try to get your opponents to agree to some basic ideas that support your intended points. You can then reference these in your speeches; reminding the judge of your opponent’s earlier concessions. It is good to have some direct clash in cross-examination, but save some things for later speeches that you can develop in this aforementioned manner. It is also a good idea to ask your partner before you begin, if there is anything he or she wants asked or clarified in your cross examination (since his or her speech will be next).

As you go throughout the cross-examination, watch your demeanor to make certain you are giving off the correct signals. Always be calm, professional, and polite. So many debaters get worked up, leaving a bad impression in their wake. As you continue to be calm and polite, make sure that you are making eye contact with the judge. The natural temptation in cross-examination is to turn and face your opponent(s), but by resisting this urge, you can make the judge feel included and respected – instead of the spectator of a yelling match. It is acceptable to take a second to formulate your answer to a question so that you may speak slowly and smoothly, as you would in your speeches.

One of the most important things you want to convey in cross-examination is that you are a rational, and thus believable, person. In answering the questions, think of what a MODERATE American would want to hear. Try your best to not make the issue about politics – this is where many debaters lose points by trying to appeal to the political side of a judge, whose political opinions YOU do not know. It is often best to not rely entirely upon the typical conservative or liberal arguments for each resolution. By simply developing the most logical arguments on each side, your team will appeal to the greatest number of judges (regardless of their political ideals). Try also to anticipate some of the questions that you may be asked and develop reasonable answers to them.

Additionally, you should attempt to use an opponent’s stubbornness or absurdity against them. This is most convenient in cross-examination since people frequently get carried away. Often you can simply point out that your opponents are not being rational, but sometimes the incongruity is so obvious that it does not need to be pointed out. At this point your mannerisms can say volumes. Nonverbal communication, such as a smile, can show a judge that sees your opponent’s irrationality that you do as well.

To have a successful cross-examination, there are also some behaviors that you must work to avoid. The most self-defeating thing you can do is get angry, worked up, or begin yelling. At this point the round is no longer enjoyable, especially for lay judges. Try your best to be fair. Do not try to hog the cross examination by not letting your opponents ask questions. At the same time do not allow your opponents to abuse you (or your partner); be assertive if necessary. One of the worst things you can do is interrupt or contradict your partner in grand crossfire. Don’t do it. As you and your partner continue to work together, you will begin to recognize when your teammate has something to say. Show consideration for one another.

Another extremely difficult habit to overcome is the temptation to roll your eyes. This helps nothing! It makes you look rude, and it does not explain your point. Finally, do not refer back unnecessarily to politics, political parties, or especially political figures. Do not blame social problems on specific parties or figures, especially ones that are well known. You never know what opinions your judge may hold of these icons, and you risk offending the judge. When such conversation is unavoidable, your best bet is to be respectful and diplomatic when discussing any political issue.

These tips can help your team remain cool and collected during cross-examination and throughout the round. They will aid you in explaining and justifying your arguments and making a superior impression on your judge. And as you work to maintain a calm and polite demeanor, they will increase your success and rapport with your fellow debaters.

Here is your chance to grill your opponent. Once you have cooked them you can eat them in the summary and final focus.