Did a moot a fortnight ago, did not break into the out rounds. I also seemed to have stagnated in the intra mooting pools, not being able to move past the semis. Would really appreciate any advice on how to get better/ improve at mooting (both as a speaker and a researcher).
What are a few things which set apart the best speakers of ANY moot court competition, can’t seem to figure out the difference. Any suggestions/ advice would be really appreciated, thanks
As a former mooter and current moot judge I would offer the following:
1. Read your memorials well. Some if not most judges have looked at them beforehand so you need to be on top of your argument.
2. Make eye contact with the judges - if there is more than one, keep switching. Observe our reactions closely - most of us are not pokerfaces and you will be able to tell if we're bored or find your argument interesting.
3. Elocute, don't read. If you merely read out your memorial it reflects rather poorly - why have an oral round then? You should have the outline of your argument in your head and only refer to the memorial or notes for support (say, a citation). It helps if you draw judges' attention to specific paragraphs or parts of the memorial - it shows us that you know your submissions.
4. Don't get flustered when you're asked questions. Practice with a friend beforehand on this. If you need a moment, ask for permission and take one - we won't pounce.
5. If you're doing a rebuttal or sur-rebuttal you need to engage with the opposite side's argument and provide a convincing response. Focus on the parts of the memorial they bring up during their oral arguments.
What are a few things which set apart the best speakers of ANY moot court competition, can’t seem to figure out the difference. Any suggestions/ advice would be really appreciated, thanks
1. Read your memorials well. Some if not most judges have looked at them beforehand so you need to be on top of your argument.
2. Make eye contact with the judges - if there is more than one, keep switching. Observe our reactions closely - most of us are not pokerfaces and you will be able to tell if we're bored or find your argument interesting.
3. Elocute, don't read. If you merely read out your memorial it reflects rather poorly - why have an oral round then? You should have the outline of your argument in your head and only refer to the memorial or notes for support (say, a citation). It helps if you draw judges' attention to specific paragraphs or parts of the memorial - it shows us that you know your submissions.
4. Don't get flustered when you're asked questions. Practice with a friend beforehand on this. If you need a moment, ask for permission and take one - we won't pounce.
5. If you're doing a rebuttal or sur-rebuttal you need to engage with the opposite side's argument and provide a convincing response. Focus on the parts of the memorial they bring up during their oral arguments.