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Debate Structure

The document provides guidance on the structure of a debate with approximate time limits. It outlines the order of speakers which includes an opening speaker for each side who has 3 minutes to introduce their position and support it with 3-4 pieces of evidence. This is followed by a rebuttal period where each side prepares counterarguments for 3-4 minutes. Then, each rebuttal speaker is given 3 minutes to address and diminish the other side's arguments. Finally, each closing speaker summarizes the best 1-2 points of their own argument and the best point against the opponent in their 3 minute closing statement.

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137 views

Debate Structure

The document provides guidance on the structure of a debate with approximate time limits. It outlines the order of speakers which includes an opening speaker for each side who has 3 minutes to introduce their position and support it with 3-4 pieces of evidence. This is followed by a rebuttal period where each side prepares counterarguments for 3-4 minutes. Then, each rebuttal speaker is given 3 minutes to address and diminish the other side's arguments. Finally, each closing speaker summarizes the best 1-2 points of their own argument and the best point against the opponent in their 3 minute closing statement.

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© © All Rights Reserved
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Debate

Structure
Mr. Hendy Industries
Debates have a clear structure (approx. 20 minutes)

Opening Speaker (Affirmative) 3 min


Opening Speaker (Negative) 3 min

Groups Prepare for Rebuttal (3-4 minutes)

Rebuttal Speaker (Affirmative) 3 min


Rebuttal Speaker (Negative) 3 min

Closing Speaker (Affirmative) 3 min


Closing Speaker (Negative) 3 min
Your job is to introduce the

Opening
topic in a way that supports
your position. You will follow
the A.R.E.gument system
that we have used but

Speaker
include 3-4 pieces of
evidence, not just one. Be
clear, persuasive, and
confident (remember the
nerds). Dont mention a
single thing about your
Build up and SUPPORT opponent. Focus only on
your argument (say all your best 3-4 points. Finish by
stating your thesis
the really good stuff)
Hello, everyone. Today my group
will discuss why we believe that
uniforms should be worn in school.
We believe that uniforms should be
worn in school because

Then, get into youre A.R.E.gument


Your job is to make
points AGAINST what
the other team said in
their opening

Rebuttal
statement. Discuss
their bad points. Why
is their position wrong?
What evidence do
Break down and DIMINISH the you have to counter
other teams argument (talk argue what they said
about how THEY are wrong and in their opening
provide evidence)
statement?
In their opening statement, the
other group mentioned that
uniforms take away individuality.
This is clearly not the case. For
instance

Then, get into reasons why their points were wrong


Your job is to

Closing
summarize the best 1
or 2 points of your
argument and the

Speaker
best point against
your opponents
argument.

Finally, bring everything End with a


together (this is the most memorable and
powerful information your powerful statement!
audience will be left with)
Here in Ontario our schools and
classrooms are trying hard to get rid
of bullying. But, if we refuse to change
our policies on no uniforms, then we
will continue to support an Ontario
where bullying is tolerated

Then, get into the 1-2 main points that you wanted to reiterate,
followed by your most memorable closing statement

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