DEBATE WEEK 1
THUY TIEN VU
CONTENT
Definition
Argument vs. Debate
Debating Words
Argument Structure
Definition
A debate is an organized argument or contest of
ideas in which the participants discuss a topic from
two opposing sides.
(www.americandebateleague.org)
Sample debate motion
School uniforms are an important part of a student's education
Rules:
- Two teams: Affirmative and Negative
- Preparation time: 15 mins
- Speech time limit: 4 mins
- Interval: 1min
Argument vs. Debate
Argument vs. Debate
A debate = Arguments + Rebuttals + Defenses
=> An argument is a part of a debate, which is the whole. Arguments are the proof needed
to have the debate, or to discuss the opposing points of view.
Debating words
Debate
Argument
Affirmative Team
Arguments
Negative Team
Rebuttal
Motion
Rebut/Refute
Chairperson
Timekeeper
Judge
Cue cards
Adjudicator
Argument Structure
Argument
Reason
Personal
Experience
Evidence
Common
Sense/ Fact
Expert's
opinion
Statistics
Practice
Find 2 reasons to agree and disagree with the following motions:
 Should mobile phones be allowed at school?
 School days should start later.
 Should violent video games be banned?
Homework
Find evidence to support your reasons for the following motions
• Should mobile phones be allowed at school?
• School days should start later.
• Should violent video games be banned?