Formal Debate Structure
I. Students hear the topic and take positions (pro and con)
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Often you are given a side ahead of time and time to prepare
II. Teams discuss their topics and come up with opening statements
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FIRST, state the issue and what side you are taking
Include any definitions of terms that are important
The statements are your Main Points (strongest arguments)
1. ________________________________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________________________________
III. Teams deliver their statements and offer main points (Affirmative goes first, Negative goes second)
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The other team takes notes about the main arguments:
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2. ________________________________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________________________________
IV. Questions
After each opening statement, each team gets a chance to question the other team about their
arguments. (There is usually a time limit)
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2. ________________________________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________________________________
V. Students discuss the opposition's argument and come up with rebuttals (counter-arguments)
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Rebuttal: ______________________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________________________________
Rebuttal: ______________________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________________________________
Rebuttal: ______________________________________________________________
VI. Deliver Rebuttals (Negative goes first, Affirmative goes second)
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Restate your strongest arguments with convincing logic to leave a big impression
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Include a rebuttal of any of the oppositions’ arguments that were damaging
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Finish strongly with your best argument
Note: You may not introduce new material at this stage