1. Opening Analysis (6 minutes)
Presenting team explains the case, ethical tensions, and a defensible position.
Competition Design
How a CHSEB Round Works
Each match is a structured ethical dialogue. Teams present, respond, and question to deepen collective understanding.
Round Format
A standard round includes four phases:
2. Commentary and Questions (8 minutes)
Responding team probes assumptions, raises objections, and adds alternative perspectives.
3. Open Dialogue (6 minutes)
Both teams discuss agreements, disagreements, and possible revisions to each position.
4. Closing Reflection (2 minutes each)
Each team states what changed, what remains contested, and why.
Roles in the Room
Moderator
Keeps timing, enforces civility norms, and ensures balanced participation.
Judges
Evaluate reasoning quality, listening, responsiveness, and ethical depth.
Teams
Engage as co-inquirers: challenge sharply, respond charitably, and refine arguments in public.
Judging Rubric
| Criterion | What Judges Look For |
|---|---|
| Ethical Analysis | Identifies stakeholders, principles, tradeoffs, and consequences. |
| Quality of Reasons | Offers clear, relevant, and publicly defensible arguments. |
| Dialogue Engagement | Listens actively, answers directly, and advances discussion. |
| Intellectual Humility | Acknowledges uncertainty and revises positions when warranted. |
| Civic Discourse | Maintains respect, reciprocity, and fairness throughout. |
Tournament Structure
Preliminary Rounds
All teams participate in multiple scored rounds against different opponents.
Semifinals
Top teams advance based on cumulative rubric scores and schedule strength.
Final Round
Finalists discuss a case before a judge panel and public audience.
Suggested Annual Timeline
Casebook publication and coach orientation.
School practice rounds and regional qualifiers.
Regional championships and judge calibration.
National semifinals and final showcase.
Ready to Host a School Team?
Use this structure as a baseline and adapt logistics to local language, school calendars, and regional context.
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