Introduction to DEBATE

Part of your education in “civics” – this is how democracy works.

Great way to learn History – if you can debate it, you have to know a lot about it and it sticks with you.

Reduce anxiety about public speaking Develop good logical thinking skills It can be fun (in big schools, there are

clubs for this)

Why do this?

Skill developed slowly with experience Great option for extended tasks! Once each month or so we will have a

formal debate associated with the time period we’re studying.

How will we use this?

Affirmative = in favor of the resolution Negative = against the resolution

“Affirmative constructive” = a speech that gives details on the resolution and the reasons

“Negative Constructive” = speech in rebuttal and/or to give the opposing side

The Sides

“Be it resolved that…” Policy: “Japan should abolish the death

penalty.” Value: “Watching TV is a waste of time.” Fact: “Be it resolved that UFOs are space

ships from other planets.”

The Resolution

Affirmative Constructive Speech Negative Constructive Speech Status quo Rebuttal Negative side is presumed correct Affirmative side has “burden of proof”

The Clash

Discussion Style Cross-examination Style Parliamentary Style Lincoln-Douglas Style

Styles of Debate

Participants need to be able to construct speeches ahead of time to support their point of view AND create impromptu speeches to “clash” with the opposition.

Participants should use a “flowsheet” to keep track of arguments as the debate goes on so they can attack later

Teams can split up the speeches among themselves

Speeches

Constructive speeches are highly organized, logical, and thorough.

Cross‐examination is always strategic and relevant. Successful rebuttal includes all opponent’s

arguments. Debater improvised successfully beyond prepared

notes. Debater shows strong command of subject matter

beyond what was taught in regular classroom lessons. Public speaking was used effectively Debater was positive contributor to team .

Grading…