Debate teaches participants how to critically assess a speaker’s point of view, reasoning and use of evidence and rhetoric. They learn how to identify fallacious reasoning and exaggerated or distorted evidence. They also learn how to respond to attacks against their arguments with limited prep using logic and/or evidence. Finally, they are taught how to effectively take notes on a round and use them to ask questions.
In this debate students will participate in a full Public Forum round and be assigned the role of either a Team A or Team B Speaker. They will alternate speaking opportunities to present 2-4 arguments in favor of or against the resolution. They will then be allowed to challenge the key points of their opponent’s argument during rebuttal speeches. Finally, they will conclude the debate with a two minute final focus speech to explain why their side should win.
To begin the debate, introduce the topic and the goals of the event to the class. Then have students listen to the opening speeches from the first and second speakers. Then they can begin to prepare their own answers.
After the debate is over, have students write their name on a ballot for the candidate they think should win. They can then drop their ballots into a box and count them to determine the winner. It’s a good idea to remind them that they can switch their votes if they feel another candidate was more persuasive!