1. Debate

2. What is debate? Formalized Public Speaking Contest to find out which side has better logical reasons.

3. Why should you care? Critical thinking skills taught in debate can save you money, time, and trouble. Debate is the foundation of a democratic government. You live in a democracy. You can crush your enemies.

4. Terms you need to know Debate Affirmative Negative Moderator Subsequent speaker

5. Terms continued Resolution Constructive Rebuttal Status quo Burden of proof

6. Affirmative Always argues in favor of the resolution. Always has the burden of proof. Always gets the first and last word.

7. Negative Always argues against the resolution. Always speaks after the affirmative. Always has the status quo in favor of their argument.

8. Moderator Keeps order during the debate. Introduces the resolution and speakers. Calls on questions and subsequent speakers. Takes the final vote Tallies best speaker ballots.

9. Subsequent speaker Volunteer impromptu speaker on behalf of either side. Subsequent speeches are three minutes long. You can yield your time to another speaker if there is time.

10. Resolution The statement being argued. Also called the proposition.

11. Constructive Speech in which you build your case using logical reasons and evidence.

12. Rebuttal Speech in which you refute your opponents arguments and rebuild your case after your opponent has refuted your arguments.

13. Status Quo The current state of affairs. Ex. According to the status quo, women are allowed to seek an abortion.

14. Burden of Proof The job of proving that some harm exists due to the status quo and a change is thus necessary.

15. What happens in a debate? The affirmative speaks for 6 minutes, making a constructive speech. The negative speaks for 6 minutes, making a constructive speech. The moderator calls on a subsequent speaker for the affirmative. The moderator calls on a subsequent speaker for the negative.

16. What happens continued The moderator may continue to call on subsequent speakers as time and interest allow. The negative makes a rebuttal and closing argument. The affirmative makes a rebuttal and closing argument. The moderator takes a vote.

17. Other stuff If you like what the speaker has to say or want to question the current speaker, you may make a “Motion to extend the speakers time by a minute (for questions). If you are tired of the debate, you may make a “Motion to previous question.” The debate will then move to closing arguments.