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NOTE TO PARENTS:

The majority of Debate topics are, by nature, considered controversial. It would not be much of a debate if we all agreed. Analyzing and debating controversial topics is a fundamental element of Debate and explicitly stated as a part of our TEKS. Learning to discuss such topics and debate them in an appropriate manner is a skill that students can carry into their adult lives; however, a lot of these topics do bring out strong emotions. Our current political climate exacerbates this. As such, I want you to be aware of the nature of Debate and understand some of the guidelines established to help students learn to present their own viewpoints in a respectful manner and listen to opposing views respectfully as well.

Guidelines:

-While there will inherently be some bias, students are instructed to seek objectivity by looking at all factual information, not just the information that supports their views.

-Acting respectfully towards others and their right to their own opinions and views is a must

*Personal attacks are not allowed; focus on the information, not the person presenting it

*Derogatory or disparaging comments towards any person or group of people are not allowed

*Name-calling, insults, etc. are not allowed

*Disagreement is good, but disagree kindly and respectfully

-Individual opinions presented must be supported with factual information from a credible source

-Extremists or opinion-based sources are not credible sources and should not be used

-Understand that sometimes, even when supported with facts, there is no clear right or wrong answer when it comes to the way we feel or think about an issue; there are simply different ways of feeling and thinking. All ways have some value or merit to them.