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Understanding Lincoln-Douglas Debate Structure
May 7, 2025
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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Full transcript