Module 19:

Staging a Debate

Essential Question:

What can we learn from Debate?

Key Terms

Debate

Point/Counterpoint

Rebuttal

Holding Debates

For this module we will be focusing on holding debates during our meeting time.

You may focus on preparing for the debate by following these steps:

Select a Debate format. Remember, these are listed HERE (This must be agreed upon by all debaters, or it may be assigned to you).
Form Teams (the number of participants will depend on the format agreed upon)
Agree on a topic (this will be something we do together. Many competitions have a topic decided on ahead of time).
Research BOTH sides of the topic (this might seem like extra work, but it will prepare you for building counter-arguments)
1. Try to find at least three sources supporting each side.
2. Take Notes (you can refer to these during the debate)
3. Outline your speech
Day of Debate: Learn your side, and Debate.

Debating Tip: Note Taking during the Debate

While it may be tempting to just sit and listen while your opponent speaks, good debaters take notes to help guide their responses and counters. This can be challenging, especially as you try to process what you hear, take down notes, and plan a response. However, with practice, you will develop the skills necessary to be successful during this phase of the debate. Remember, there is no one format for note-taking during a debate. Find a method that works for you.

For some helpful tips, consider this video, produced by the Western Australian Debating League.

It features real-life student debaters sharing how they take notes and keep them organized. There are some excellent tips.

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