Debate Format

Preparation:

  • Each side writes one joint introduction that does the following:
    • Engage the audience
    • Provide brief history of topic
    • Define terms
    • Clearly state thesis
    • Explain relevance of issue you are arguing
  • Anticipate possible opposition points and prepare for rebuttal
  • Each side writes conclusion that does the following:
    • Briefly restates main points of argument (be prepared to add to that after other side’s preparation)
    • Brings closure to argument
    • Leaves satisfying last impression
    • Moves audience to action

Debate:

  1. Affirming speakers
    1. Read individual statements of supportive evidence
    2. Negative group, listen to statements, make notes, and prepare for cross-examination
    3. Cross-examination by negative side
    4. After cross-examination, affirmative speakers provide clarifying argument (rebuttal)
  2. Negative speakers
    1. Read individual statements of supportive evidence
    2. Affirmative group, listen to statements, make notes, and prepare for cross-examination
    3. Cross-examination by affirmative side
    4. Clarifying argurments (rebuttal) by negative side
  3. Affirmative Conclusion
  4. Negative Conclusion
  5. Vote

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