Notes on Debate Structure and Techniques

What is a Debate?

• A structured argument with two opposing teams.
• Teams make speeches to support their arguments and refute the opposing team's arguments.
• Debates involve motions, which are statements, not questions.
• There is a proposition vs. opposition format with alternating turns.
• Debates help improve speaking skills and develop convincing arguments.
• Strict rules of conduct are followed.

Why Debate?

• Engages in discussions on topics like health, economy, environment.
• Example topic: "That dieting is better for health than sports."

Debate Structure

• Teams:
  • Affirmative (Pro) supports the topic.
  • Negative (Con) opposes the topic.
• Judge: Oversees the debate.

Basic Debating Skills

1. Content:
   • Define the topic clearly.
2. Style:
   • Deliver content confidently and persuasively.
   • Maintain respect and take turns.
3. Clarity:
   • Express ideas concisely.
4. Volume and Speed:
   • Use appropriate volume and vary speed.
5. Tone and Signposting:
   • Vary tone and structure speech with signposts.
6. Eye Contact and Body Language:
   • Maintain eye contact and use deliberate gestures.
7. Use of Notes:
   • Use cue cards or notes for guidance, not to read from.
   • Take notes of opposing team’s main points for rebuttal.

Team Line

• A statement summarizing the team's position.
• Repeated by each speaker.

Rebuttal/Refutation

• Critique the opposing team's arguments.
• Focus on logical flaws and factual inaccuracies.
• Use the pattern: Signpost, Rephrase, Negate, Rationalize.

Debate Flow

1. 1st Affirmative Speech:
   • Introduction, present first argument, conclude.
2. 1st Negative Speech:
   • Refute affirmative, present first negative argument.
3. 2nd Affirmative Speech:
   • Refute negative, present second affirmative argument.
4. 2nd Negative Speech:
   • Refute affirmative, present second negative argument.
5. 3rd Affirmative Speech:
   • Refute negative, present third affirmative argument, summarize.
6. 3rd Negative Speech:
   • Refute affirmative, present third negative argument, summarize.
7. Summaries and Judge Pronouncement:
   • Teams summarize why they should win.
   • Judge decides the winner based on strongest case and arguments.

Debate Flow (Practical)

• Follows similar steps as theoretical debate flow.
• Emphasis on refutation and strengthening the team's case.

Example Speech Analysis

• Use of persuasive techniques, structured arguments, and examples.

Practice Topics

• Should nuclear weapons be abolished?
• Is beauty better than brains?
• Should smoking be banned?
• Is country life better than city life?

Reminder

• Rehearse and practice to improve debating skills.

Overall, debating is a valuable skill that enhances public speaking, critical thinking, and the ability to formulate coherent arguments.