A presentation by: Kenneth Joe Galloway CEO - Knowledge, Growth & Support, Ltd. The Art of the Debate

Definition of Terms Topic: This basically refers to what will be addressed during the debate. Topics can range from economic, political, social, ethical, or other issues. In college debates, it is common to choose a topic that is being hotly discussed in the news or local circles.

The Art of the Debate Definition of Terms Proposition: In each debate, there must be a specific declarative statement that can either be true or false. Given that a college debate proposition is always stated in the affirmative, the burden of proof is on the affirmative side. Here are some examples of simple debate propositions Resolved: The government should regulate the stock market to prevent fraud. Resolved: Cell phones fees should be based on a per-text message basis. Resolved: The use of gene therapy for disease treatment is a good thing.

The Art of the Debate Definition of Terms Constructive Speech: This refers to the opening speech made by the 1st Speakers of each group. Here, the speaker presents the basic framework of his team’s argument. This speech also contains the main points upon which the team builds its arguments to justify its position. To this end, one must gather data, quotes, or statistical evidence as well as cite previous studies to back up all arguments.

The Art of the Debate Definition of Terms Position: There are two opposing teams in a college debate, and each team must choose one position. Pro/Affirmative Position: This team argues that the proposition is true. Con/Negative Position: This team argues that the proposition is false. Premise: This refers to a team’s assertion in the form of a specified fact or assumption, which is used to establish the argument (e.g., “Many European studies have reported that excessive mobile phone use can lead to cancer,” “About 45% of surveyed citizens believe that the government is doing its job,” etc.)

The Art of the Debate Definition of Terms Point: The premise laid out by the team must be supported by several main points that must substantially support the main argument. Argument: This refers to a set of points used by the team to validate/justify the conclusion. Sound Argument: In accordance with the principles of logic, this is an argument that is both true and logically valid.

The Art of the Debate Definition of Terms Fallacy: This refers to the type of argument that is logically invalid, hence, a fallacy should never be used to substantiate an argument. A separate section shall later define several common fallacies and their examples. Rebuttal: Once the main speakers have stated their primary arguments, each team is entitled to a rebuttal, through which the team offers counter arguments.

The Art of the Debate Definition of Terms Speaker: The participants in the debate, three for each team. Each speaker has a different role to play in the team. We shall discuss these in detail later on.

The Art of the Debate Some Useful Tips 4. Make eye contact Making eye contact is important. It shows sincerity, confidence, and an actual commitment to engage your opponent, the judges, and the audience in actual discussion.

The Art of the Debate Some Useful Tips 5. Voice modulation and body language These go hand in hand, and can be used to your advantage when trying to convince the judges and the audience of your main arguments. You can raise your voice to emphasize an idea, to drive home a point, to challenge the opponent, and so on. Meanwhile, you can use body language to create subtle impressions that may sway the audience/judge to your side.

The Art of the Debate Some Useful Tips 5. Voice modulation and body language Related to body language, displaying nervous habits, such as fiddling with your hair, scratching your head, or being listless, can betray your lack of confidence and can take away from the strength of the arguments you are presenting.

The Art of the Debate Our Debates Debate Format 2 minute Position Presentation - Pro 2 minute Position Presentation - Con 2 minute Rebuttal - Pro 2 minute Rebuttal – Con Questions from the floor 2 minute Position Summary - Pro or Con Tallying of Ballots/Announcement of Winner