Debate Structure: Lincoln-Douglas Format

Introduction

• Discusses the debate structure for collegiate Lincoln-Douglas debate.
• Covers the logistics of speaking order and format.
• Encourages watching a sample video for better understanding.

History of Lincoln-Douglas Debate

• Named after the debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas in 1858.
• Lincoln was an abolitionist; Douglas was opposed to abolition.
• The original debates had lengthy speaking times which are not used in modern collegiate formats.

Modern Lincoln-Douglas Debate

• One-versus-one format focused on policy issues.
• Different from team debates (e.g., collegiate policy team debate and parliamentary style debate).

Basic Structure and Terminology

• Speech Columns: Each column represents a speech opportunity.
• Affirmative Speeches: Denoted as 1AC (First Affirmative Constructive), 1AR (First Affirmative Rebuttal), 2AR (Second Affirmative Rebuttal).
• Negative Speeches: Denoted as 1NC (First Negative Constructive), 1NR (First Negative Rebuttal).
• Cross-Examination (CX): Opportunity for the opposing debater to ask questions.

Speech Times

• First Affirmative Constructive: 6 minutes.
• Cross-Examination by Negative: 3 minutes.
• First Negative Constructive: 7 minutes.
• Cross-Examination by Affirmative: 3 minutes.
• First Affirmative Rebuttal: 6 minutes.
• First Negative Rebuttal: 6 minutes.
• Second Affirmative Rebuttal: 3 minutes.

Debate Speech Breakdown

1AC (First Affirmative Constructive)

• Present the affirmative case using prepared briefs (SHIP: Significance, Harms, Inherency, Plan, Solvency).
• Read evidence cards; no need for memorized speeches.
• Followed by cross-examination.

1NC (First Negative Constructive)

• Present the negative brief in response to affirmative case.
• Includes on-case arguments like disadvantages or counterplans.
• Followed by cross-examination.

1AR (First Affirmative Rebuttal)

• Respond to the negative brief.
• Not for new arguments, but to refute negative points and strengthen the affirmative case.

1NR (First Negative Rebuttal)

• Respond to the 1AR.
• Highlight any affirmative points missed or misunderstood.
• Summarize the negative case.

2AR (Second Affirmative Rebuttal)

• Respond to the 1NR.
• Summarize and reinforce the affirmative case.
• Shortest speech; focus on efficiency.

Cross-Examination

• Used to clarify or expose inconsistencies in the opponent's arguments.
• Ask questions that advance your strategy or reveal flaws.

Constructive vs. Rebuttal Speeches

Constructive

• First speeches where initial positions and arguments are presented.
• Each debater has one constructive speech.

Rebuttal

• Final speeches where arguments are summarized and conclusions drawn.
• No new arguments allowed.
• Affirmative gets two rebuttals; negative gets one.

Recommendations

• Rewatch lecture for clarity.
• Take detailed notes and engage in class discussions for further understanding.

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