A debate is a persuasive speech. The object is to win the debate by presenting the best, most convincing arguments. Your team will take one side of an issue or question and try to prove to an audience that your view is most convincing. The winning team will be determined by the logic of the arguments, the facts to back up the arguments, and a convincing manner of delivery.
The following steps are outlined to help you prepare for the debate.
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1. Choosing a team A debating team consists of three peopletwo debaters and an alternate. The debaters are the speakers and the alternate takes notes and gives advice. All members of the team must be familiar with the information and the strategy. In the absence of a debater, the alternate will speak.
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2. Select resolution The topic of a debate is stated in the form of a resolution or proposition. The resolution statement should have teacher’s approval.
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3. Select positions The team who argues for the resolution is the affirmative team. You argue that the resolution should be adopted or that it is advantageous to society. The negative team will argue against the resolution. You will try to prevent the adoption of the resolution by defending the present condition or situation.
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4. Research Bather as much current information an your subject as possible. Your information should include facts, figures and expert opinions, as well as your own. It can be taken from a variety of print and non-print resources. Record the information and its source on note cards (one fact per card.) Remember that there are special rules for quoting someone’s opinion.
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5. Organize research Your goal is to prove your claim. Combine the evidence from your research with logical reasoning. You will need a few major points and several minor points to help support your reasoning. Use the research information to support the major and minor points. Decide on the most logical order to present the information.
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6. Write Presentation The first person to speak has a prepared speech. All other arguments will be presented from organized note cards, including all the information that you are using to support your main points.
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7. Prepare refutation You are required to present a convincing argument and counter the arguments of the opposing side. That means you will have to research both sides of the resolution and pay close attention to the points made by your opponents.
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8. Practice and Debate
NOTE: your teacher will provide the outline for staging a formal debate. The order in which the teams will speak is outlined here.
Constructive you build your case by introducing arguments and evidence. (10 min. each)
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1. First affirmativepresents resolution, defines terms, presents justification for accepting resolution.
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2. First negativestates any objections to definitions, presents opening arguments, outlines major issues.
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3. Second affirmativereestablishes position and extends arguments.
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4. Second negativecontinues arguments by reviewing issues.
Rebuttal attack or defend point that were introduced. No new arguments are introduced, but new evidence may be. (5 min. each)
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1. First negativecontinues arguments in development of previously stated issues, refutes affirmative position,
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2. First affirmativeresponds to negative arguments.
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3. Second negativepresents an overview of strongest points and best arguments that refute the resolution.
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4. Second affirmativepresents an overview of strongest points in favor of resolution and that best refutes the negative position.