Solve & Defend™
Solve Real World Math Problems then Defend Responses.
During the DebateFest Solve & Defend™ Competition students in groups of 3-4 solve critical thinking questions. Since their are multiple answers then must explain which answer selection is best. The collaboration and public speaking engage students in an exciting challenge. Students solve authentic real-world mathematical problems and defend their reasoning before judges using clear logical communication.
Participant Grouping
- Teams of 3–4 students.
- Students compete by grade level (Grades 3–8).
- Teams compete only against students in the same grade.
- Every participant contributes to solving and defending solutions.
Competition Structure
- National advancement occurs through advancement from Regional competitions.
- Rigor of the math grows as students advance.
- Teams defend their solution before judges.
- Multiple problem sets allow continuous competition and challenge.
Problem Design
- Scenario-based mathematical challenges.
- Critical thinking and analysis.
- Mathematical calculations.
- Application of mathematics.
- Clear verbal justification.
- Multiple challenge sets for every grade.
Skill Development
- Divisional Level: After the second unsuccessful attempt, an adult mentor may assist teams with Green Level challenges.
- Regional Level: No adult assistance is permitted.
- National Level: Teams work completely independently.
- Students strengthen collaboration, mathematical reasoning, confidence, and communication skills.
Scoring System
| Category | Points |
|---|---|
| Accurate Calculations | 25 |
| Accurate Totals | 25 |
| Best Solution | 15 |
| Clear & Logical Explanation | 35 |
Maximum Score: 100 Points
Teams earn explanation points only when their calculations are correct.
Competition Rules
- Teams must score at least 65 points to successfully complete a challenge.
- Teams scoring below 65 may attempt the same problem again as time allows.
- Each additional attempt reduces the maximum possible score by 25 points.
- Final rankings are determined by total points earned, explanation quality, and the number of successfully completed challenges.
Competition Challenge Levels
Divisional
Problems at beginning of the year level expectations
Regional
Problems at mid year grade expectations
National
Problems at end of the year expectations & beyond
How Can Teachers Prepare Their Students For Solve & Defend?
Successful teams prepare by strengthening both their mathematical thinking and their ability to explain why their solution is the best. The following strategies will help students become competition ready. These techniques will also help strengthen your math teaching.
- 1. Build Strong Collaborative Teams
Form teams of 3–4 students with different strengths. Encourage every student to contribute ideas, calculations, and explanations during practice. - 2. Practice Real-World Problem Solving
Use multi-step mathematical problems that require reasoning, estimation, analysis, and more than one possible solution. - 3. Require Students to Defend Every Answer
After solving each problem, ask students to explain how they reached their answer and why their solution is the strongest choice. - 4. Encourage Mathematical Conversations
Have students respectfully question one another’s reasoning, compare strategies, and justify mathematical decisions using evidence. - 5. Rotate Team Responsibilities
Allow every student to experience different roles such as lead problem solver, calculator checker, recorder, presenter, and evidence reviewer. - 6. Simulate Competition Conditions
Provide timed practice sessions where teams solve problems independently before presenting their solutions to classmates or teachers. - 7. Strengthen Communication Skills
Teach students to speak clearly, organize their explanations, use mathematical vocabulary correctly, and maintain eye contact while presenting. - 8. Analyze Mistakes Together
Review incorrect solutions as a team. Discuss where reasoning broke down and identify better approaches for future challenges. - 9. Increase Problem Difficulty Gradually
Begin with Divisional-level problems before progressing to Regional and National challenge levels as students improve. - 10. Celebrate Growth
Recognize teamwork, perseverance, logical thinking, and improvement—not just correct answers—to build confidence throughout the season.