Structure
: Pro, Con, Pro, Con, Pro, ( 2, 2, 1, 2, 1) Minutes
· Remember arguments in favor will always go first.
1) Debates will open with key arguments for both sides. You will have
2- 3 Minutes to present these arguments.
a. Your arguments should support your side
b. Be backed up with facts,
c. Have credible sources for each of your facts
2) Opposition’s side
a. Be sure to listen to your opposition, listening
for weak points or rebuttal chances. Talking notes is fine, be aware of what they say.
3) Rebuttal and Questions
a. You will have 1 minute to address a point made
against you, and pose a question to your opposition.
b. If you choose to rebuttal a fact, make it quick and try to relate it
to your question.
c. This question should be one not already addressed, or one that needs
more clarifying.
4) Answering Questions:
a. You may not have a clear answer for a question.
try your best. And stay on topic. This is your final remark so make it good
Research:
This is the most important
part of your debate. Your research will determine the success of your debate. A good debater knows their material and the
topic they are debating. It is not enough to know the arguments you want to make, but you should know the weakness of your
arguments as well as the arguments and weaknesses of your opponents. Be sure that your sources are credible. Meaning they
have some factual basis. Wikipedia is not a credible source. Not all sources are
unbiased, (meaning they do not take a side but provide information), but that does not mean their information is not good.
Be sure to mention your sources within your debate. Quantitative information is always useful when trying to make a point.
It’s easy to argue opinions, but hard to argue numbers. Remember that laws are based on precedents, so the past is a
good place to look for reasons to support your cause.
Arrange Your Thoughts:
-
be sure you have your notes ready
before the debate with talking points all laid out
-
Be sure you have conferred with
your teammate to make sure you have not repeated the same information.
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Be sure to prepare a few questions
in advance that you may choose from depending on your opponent’s information.
