DEBATE PROCEDURES AND TIPS
ENG 3U1
Preparation, organization and the power of persuasion are the key skills that will help you have a successful
debate. Please make note of the following tips and procedures below:
Procedures
1.
The moderator introduces the affirmative and negative teams and the resolution and explains any
procedures, rules, reminders, etc. The moderator will take notes, watch the clock and announce when
thirty seconds are remaining and when time is up.
2.
The affirmative team presents argument for 3 minutes. During this time, the negative team should be
taking notes in preparation of the rebuttal while listening attentively, politely and quietly to opponents.
3.
The negative team presents the rebuttal for 2 minutes. The negative team CANNOT present any new
arguments at that time – they can only argue against what was just stated by the affirmative team.
During this time, the affirmative team listens attentively, politely and quietly to opponents and may take
notes in preparation of the free-for-all.
4.
The negative team presents their argument for 3 minutes. During this time, the affirmative team should
be taking notes in preparation of the rebuttal while listening attentively, politely and quietly to
opponents.
5.
The affirmative team presents their rebuttal for 2 minutes. The affirmative team CANNOT present any
new arguments at that time – they can only argue against what was just stated by the affirmative team.
During this time, the negative team listens attentively, politely and quietly to opponents and may take
notes in preparation of the free-for-all.
6.
The 1 – 2 minute free-for-all is an open debate for both teams to restate their case. During this time,
speakers should be polite, attentive and patient. It is important for the teams to allow the moderator to
step in so that each side can be heard. Remember that much of your debate is based on your
presentation skills, so being too pushy, rude and obnoxious will hurt your overall performance and affect
your final grade.
7.
The two teams then leave the room for about three minutes. You may get a drink, go to the washroom,
etc. but don’t cause disturbances in the halls and be back before the three minutes are up. During this
time, the audience has a chance to discuss the debate as a class and to vote which side has won the
debate (in rare circumstances, ties have been awarded).
8.
The moderator calls the teams back and debriefs the teams and announces the outcome. The teams will
then hand in notes to the moderator to be considered for the final debate mark.
9.
The next debate team must be prepared to begin promptly so that we adhere to time constraints.
TIPS AND RULES for Debates:
Rules:
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No props or other visual aids are permitted. This is a battle of words!
Do not chew gum or eat candy while your debate is being presented
Be courteous and polite at all times. No put-downs, insults or offensive comments will be tolerated
Be attentive at all times to the presentation – this includes both debate teams and audience members
If you are late for class while a debate is going on, wait patiently and quietly outside the door until the
presentation is complete (you will know this when the debate teams leave the class)
Do not interrupt or distract the class during debate presentations
Each member of the debate team MUST participate equally in the presentation. Therefore, each member of
the team must present the argument for 1.5 minutes each, prepare the rebuttal for 1 minute each, etc.
Rehearse your debate ahead of time!
TIPS:
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Bring a pen and paper as well as your notes for your debate. Use the pen and paper to jot down notes or to
silently communicate ideas to your partner while the opposing team is presenting.
Have all aspects of the debate planned before the debate. This includes your rebuttal. If new information /
better material is presented by the other team, you can modify your rebuttal while their argument is being
presented – quietly of course!
Brainstorm from all angles. A thorough plan means that you won’t overlook a “minor” detail that ends up
costing you the debate because you didn’t anticipate all sides.
Time your debate by practicing the presentation of your arguments with a stop-watch. The moderator will
be strictly adhering to the time constraints outlined
Have copies of the text in front of you with some pages marked for quick and easy reference.
While your partner is debating, you can help them stay organized and on-track. Also, silent words of
encouragement will be supportive for your partner.
Avoid giggling, fidgeting or slouching during your presentation – the impression the audience has of you is
very important
Try to smile and make eye contact where possible during your debate – these forms of body language
exhibit confidence
Be sure to look over the rubric for evaluation (note the changes made) and make notes for yourself for the
presentation. EX: SPEAK UP!!, etc.
GOOD LUCK!