Middle School Parliamentary Debate Rules

Debate Resolutions

• Resolutions are the topics being debated.
  • Example: "Ban school uniforms."

Teams and Roles

• Two teams: Proposition (for the resolution) and Opposition (against the resolution).
• Each team has three debaters.
• Each debater delivers one speech.

Order of Speeches and Responsibilities

1. First Proposition Speaker

• Duration: 5 minutes
• Introductions
• Define terms and present a plan (if applicable).
• Present 3-4 major points for the resolution, backed by evidence.

2. First Opposition Speaker

• Duration: 5 minutes
• Introductions
• Present a counter plan (if applicable).
• Refute proposition's points.
• Present 3-4 arguments against the resolution, backed by evidence.

3. Second Proposition Speaker

• Duration: 5 minutes
• Rebuild and extend the original points.
• Refute opposition’s arguments.
• Introduce new arguments (time permitting), backed by evidence.

4. Second Opposition Speaker

• Duration: 5 minutes
• Extend opposition arguments.
• Provide new evidence or information.
• Introduce new arguments (time permitting), backed by evidence.

5. Third Opposition Speaker

• Duration: 5 minutes
• Summarize entire debate.
• Reiterate why the opposition should win.
• Refute proposition’s arguments.
• No new arguments allowed.

6. Third Proposition Speaker

• Duration: 5 minutes
• Summarize entire debate.
• Reiterate why the proposition should win.
• Refute opposition’s arguments.
• No new arguments allowed.

Points of Information (POI)

• Requests by the non-speaking team to the speaker to yield time.
• Attempted during the first four speeches.
• Not allowed during the first and last minute (protected time).
• Accepted POI gives opponent up to 15 seconds.

Heckling

• Respectful interruptions during speeches.
• Should add substance to the debate.
• Can occur at any time.
• Example: If debating Puerto Rico as the 51st state, opposition argues no island state, a heckle could be "Hawaii?"

Conclusion

• Thank the judge at the end of the debate.