What Is Debate?
What Is Debate?
The 2 teams (3 students in each) are seated at 2 desks/tables in front of the classroom. While a team is
not required to use all of the time allocated to each debate component, speakers must stop
immediately when the allocated time runs out. The timekeeper will announce the end of time 1
minute before by knocking once or making any other sign previously agreed upon. After this last-
minute end, the timekeeper will stop the speaker immediately. Debate opens with the affirmative
team (the team that supports the resolution) presenting their arguments, followed by a member of the
opposing team. This pattern is repeated for the second speaker in each team. Finally, each team gets
an opportunity for rebutting the arguments of the opponent. Speakers should speak slowly and
clearly. At the end of the debate an adjudicator/judge will decide which team is the winner.
When the formal debate is finished, allow time for debriefing and discussion. Members of the
audience should be given an opportunity to ask questions and to contribute their own thoughts
and opinions on the arguments presented. Members of the debate teams may also wish to reflect
on their performance and seek feedback from the audience, including the teacher.
NOTE: -
While debating, think of these three components: Manner, Matter and Method.
Matter is what is IN your speech, the content;
Manner is HOW you say it (eye contact, voice, gestures);
Method is the STRUCTURE, how organized your speech is.
Manner usually accounts for 40% of a team’s score, Matter for another 40% and Method for 20%.