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toc The Great Debates April 12th and 13th

The Purpose
From ancient Greek democracy to modern presidential campaigns, from the halls of Congress to our kitchen tables, debate has been and continues to be an integral part of decision-making – personal as well as political. Throughout history people have disagreed with each other on vital issues. Debating these ideas offers us the opportunity to clarify arguments, to listen to the other side, and to be persuasive as well as diplomatic. If we hope to resolve conflicts peacefully, we need do all these things: clarify issues, speak persuasively, and listen carefully. The purpose of this assignment is for you to become better speakers, thinkers, and problem-solvers by practicing the art of formal debate. Learning the art of debate develops your skills in logical and critical thinking, writing, and speaking.

The Resolutions

 * * The pen is mightier than the sword.
 * War brings progress.
 * Innovation is always good.
 * Violence is not the answer. || * Competition is better than cooperation.
 * The good of the whole is more important than the good of the individual.
 * The end justifies the means.
 * Honesty is the best policy. ||

Format & Rules
The great debate has three parts, in this order:


 * Opening statements: 3 minutes each—you may have your paper with you
 * Begin with an introduction, in which you present your overall topic
 * State your thesis (state whether you support the saying or not)
 * Number your main points—you need to have at least two main points, and you must use rich examples to support your points.
 * Use at least one statistic and one quotation to support your argument
 * Predict one of your opponent’s arguments and counter it.
 * Close your statement—wrap up your main points and summarize your argument briefly. End with “Thank you.”
 * Cross-Examination: 2 minutes each—outline beforehand, and take notes during your opponent’s opening statement. This is the most challenging part of the debate, and you will want to practice as much as you can with classmates!
 * Closing statements: 1 minute each—partially drafted beforehand, added to during the debate
 * Restate your position—briefly re-emphasize your strongest points.
 * Point out weaknesses in your opponent’s argument
 * Close with something memorable (metaphor, quotation, analogy, appeal to human emotion?)

Basic Steps

 * 1) Request and then receive your assigned saying from our list of options.
 * 2) Brainstorm possible examples from course material to use in your debate.
 * 3) Outline both sides of the argument—your side and your opponent’s side.
 * 4) Compile quotations, statistics and historical examples to use in your argument.
 * 5) Write and edit your opening statement.
 * 6) Prepare notes for cross-examination and closing statement.
 * 7) Rehearse your argument, anticipating opposing arguments.
 * 8) Practice being cross-examined by a visiting upper school debate student (*optional).
 * 9) Debate your opponent on the designated day (dress nicely!).
 * 10) Hand in typed copy of your opening statement to your teacher after your debate.

Grading Rubric

 * A good debate is logical, thorough, well organized, respectful, and forthright.
 * A great debate, in addition, tries to make use of good analogies, relevant statistics and quotations, and powerful appeals to people’s emotions.

Your grade will be based on...
 * the judges’ and teacher scores
 * your productivity during workshop periods
 * politeness/respectfulness during other debates

Good Luck

 * Keep in mind that your speaking style and attitude has a large impact on the judge’s impression of you.
 * Make your points clearly, enumerating them if necessary (First…, Second…).
 * Be respectful of your opponent, the judges, and your audience.
 * Speak loudly and clearly, and use your time efficiently. Look up!
 * Dress neatly on the day of your debate
 * Never belittle or criticize your opponent in any way: argue the points, not the person.