Marc Turetzky
Pols1, Spring 2016
Sample Debate Outline
I. Introduction
A. Get the viewer's attention by asking a leading question; relay something
enticing about the subject in a manner that commands attention. Start with a
related quote, alluring description, or narration.
B. State the thesis, the causes and effects to be discussed; comparison of
subject X and subject Y; your position on the issue; your proposal if
applicable; and the main points that will develop your argument.
II. Body
A. First Point/Assertion/Explanation
1. Supporting evidence (i.e., examples, facts, statistics, quoted
authorities, details, reasons, examples)
2. Supporting evidence
3. etc
B. Second Point/Assertion/Explanation
1. Supporting evidence
2. Supporting evidence
3. etc
C. Third Point/Assertion/Explanation
1. Supporting evidence
2. Supporting evidence
3. etc
III. Conclusion
A. Show how explanations (causes) are logical reasons producing the effects
discussed; review subject X and subject Y; reiterate your assertion and
proposition (if applicable). Reemphasize your thesis in a fresh way, showing
how your have achieved your purpose. If you intend to draw to a conclusion
about one subject over the other, emphasize that point.
B. Appeal to the reader to see how you have come to a logical conclusion.
C. Make a memorable final statement.
Works Cited
Adams, Paul. "Furious Arafat Is Freed." Globe and Mail [Toronto] 2 May
2002: A1+.
Collins, Ronald K.L., and David M. Skover.The Trials of Lenny Bruce: The
Fall and Rise of an American Icon. Naperville, IL: Sourcebooks, 2002.
Continelli, Louise. "A Place for Owls to Heal."Buffalo News 12 Jan. 2003:
C2. "E-Money Slips Quietly into Oblivion."Nikkei Weekly [Tokyo] 22
Jan. 2001: 4.
Gordin, Michael D. "The Science of Vodka." Letter.
Longin, Hellmut. Telephone interview. 11 Jan. 2006.
Marshall, Leon. "Mandela in Retirement: Peacemaker without Rest."
National Geographic.com. 9 Feb. 2001. 13 Mar. 2003
<http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2001/02/0209_mandela.ht
ml>.
NASONEX Nasal Spray, Schering. Advertisement.Newsweek. 9 Sept. 2002:
9.
New Yorker 13 Jan. 2003: 7. "Ho Chi Minh." Encyclopaedia Britannica.
2003. Britannica.com. 15 May 2003 <http://www.britannica.com>.
O'Keefe, Mark. "Definition of 'Rich' Is Elusive." Detroit Free Press 12 Jan.
2003: 1E+.
Schubach, Erik. "Bugs Bunny." Cartoon. CartoonWorld! 1998. 12 Oct. 2004
<http://www.cet.com/~rascal/graphics/bugsbun.gif>.
Wolanski, Eric, et al. "Mud, Marine Snow and Coral Reefs." American
Scientist Jan.-Feb. 2003: 44-51.