Debate Guidelines
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Our resident debate enthusiasts have summarized their debate experience into this simple guide to help you prepare. Read through our points and framework and get your team and friends together and practice. Be confident and have fun!
Central Argument
What are the most important points and deciding factors surrounding this issue?
Relevance
Why is it relevant? Avoid off-topic stuff. Make sure to have a CLEAR EXPLANATION.​
Evidence
What is compelling evidence that can back up your claims? If you can't prove it, then it is probably not a good point.
Rebuttal
What are some possible counterpoints?
Be prepared to rebut them back before they rebut you.
Implication
What is the implication and how does it link to society and help it "improve"?
What skills does each speaker on the team need? A successful team is one that allows each scholar to shine individually and contribute to the team's overall success.
First
Speaker
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Be expressive and passionate but not too arrogant.
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Be informative and less destructive.
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Clear explanation.
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Strong organization.
Second Speaker
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Sound rebuttal skills.
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Persuasive delivery.
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Research and analysis.
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Logical reasoning.
Third Speaker
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Listening and notetaking skills.
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Summarization skills.
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Interpretive thinking.
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Critical analysis.
Here is a handy chart to summarize the debate structure with roles and responsibilities for each speaker. It's based on our experience and we hope it helps you stay organized.
