Debate Outline Rubric:
Name:_______________
Grade: _____/45
Introduction:
3 pts Ethos and Pathos (Attention Grabber): You focus on your audience to get them to relate to you and your topic. You use power
language to draw in your audience as well.
1 pt Thesis: A clear sentence that uses pathos and shows what you believe about your topic.
Content:
3 pts Main Points: Each main point is clearly stated in complete sentences, using powerful and vivid language. Each clearly supports
your thesis.
3 pts Sub Points are also clearly stated in complete sentences, using powerful and vivid language that explains the main points.
10 pts Logos: The main points are backed up with plenty of evidence from credible sources. Each main point is supported with
evidence from at least two sources.
6 pts Credibility: Each sub point that is not a personal anecdote comes with a source citation. The source should be included on your
works cited and should be CREDIBLE based on the criteria we used in class.
Organization:
1 pt Outline Format: You use the outline format correctly, including the use of roman numerals and other formatting requirements.
3 pts Full-Sentence Transitions: You use clear transitions that make main points flow naturally into each other. The transitions do
not simply repeat the main points, and you use various types of transitions.
2 pts Transitions Between Main Points: You should use transitional words and phrases to make your sub points flow. (Phrases like
“in addition”, “furthermore”, “in contrast”, etc..)
2 pts Flow: Points flow in a logical order, with no repeating of information.
Works Cited:
5 pts: You include an updated works cited that alphabetically lists all sources USED in your debate. You should have at least FOUR
sources.
Conclusion:
1 pt: Briefly Restate Main Points: remind your audience of all of the main points you talked about in your speech.
1 pt Restate Thesis: In different words, you again tell your audience what to do or think.
1 pt Pathos and Ethos: Use power language to drive your final point home and make it memorable. Make a final push to relate to
your audience and show them you should be trusted.
Editing and Polish:
3 Points: Outline should be polished and error-free. All sentences should be complete. The entire outline should read as a transcript
for your speech.